Eye-opening Catwalk

We've written stories in the Southeast Missourian about domestic abuse, which we hope raise awareness and educate the public about the need for safe places like Safe House for Women. But I don't think about it daily or even weekly.

I don't think about the fact that 1.3 million women in America are physically assaulted by a partner every year or that last year Missouri helped 51,092 women, children and men in domestic violence situations.

I don't live with memories of personal experiences. I have never felt unsafe at home.

But thanks to the Vintage NOW Fashion Show Tuesday, I do have something to think back on and tie to domestic abuse.

Linda Goulding stood in front of the crowd of about 725 and shared her experience in a violent relationship several years ago. Her voice shook and she stopped occasionally to stifle a sob, but she made it through, just like the relationship.

As I listened, I looked at the women around me catching tears with cocktail napkins and trying to blink back the impending rush of emotion.

Sometimes you just need a visual.

I will think about Goulding and those other women more often. I don't know if they, too, had been abused or if they knew her. Perhaps they were just moved.

The fashion show, in its second year, raises money and awareness by celebrating women with one of our loves: fashion -- which extended from the stage to the audience Tuesday.

The event raised $27,000 for the Safe House for Women. The volunteers, sponsors and organizers should all be proud.