Domestic violence affects males, too
Men trapped in abusive relationships. Some of you may be thinking, Did she just write men? Some say there is a double standard for men who are the ones being abused. But, one local woman says that needs to change. Lizabeth Stahl knows the pain firsthand. For her, the holidays are meant to be a time to spend with family. But, this will be the seventh Christmas she must try to celebrate without her son, James, also known as "Jim Eddy." Lizabeth smiles as she remembers her son, I wish you could have met him. He was always the clown, just have you laughing! But, that laughter is now silent. Almost seven years ago, at the age of 34, James was killed by his abusive, live-in girlfriend. Now, Lizabeth honors James with an altar in her breakfast nook. Pictures of James and Jesus, crosses, candles, and dried flowers from his funeral adorn the table. Until now, Lizabeth has grieved quietly. However, she feels as Christmas approaches, now is the time she should open up about something that has caused her, and her children and grandchildren so much pain. She recalls, From what I was told at the funeral, from people at work would hide him, to protect him from her but he would always go back. She hopes her sons murder will help give a voice to men who are either too afraid or too embarrassed to reach out. Through tears, Lizabeth says, I cant bring him back and my arms ache to hold him but hopefully he can help someone else. She says her message is one of hope: If I could give a gift at <b>...</b>
