Just a private/side note regarding the abuse...

Nothing to be sorry about. It was years ago (15ish?), and I've learned my lesson (get the hell out of relationships like that).

One of the biggest problems I faced, at the time, was the fact that it is assumed men are always the abuser. (Like you did)

I personally believe this is because men are ashamed of it happening. I therefore refuse to be ashamed to allow people to see that it does happen.

Hopefully people see, hear, and learn (like you did).

My job is done.