December 26, 2020:

He was a "Mock-up Man". They lived at 4220 Poplar Street. I was born alive.

They were married because she was pregnant with me. Her family were surprised because for years she'd refused to allow anyone to touch her.

Her arms were covered with bruises. She denied any abuse, saying, "I'm clumsy and walk into doors."

That must have been my first home, although I have no recollection. There are pictures of me on her knee: perhaps we're inside that house.

"I broke the cycle of violence," she later said. That's right. She did what her mother should have done. Had she done it might have saved many lives.