LIKE a phoenix from the ashes, Newcastle woman Sherynne Smith has risen above her struggles to provide a beacon of hope for other women.
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Ms Smith’s husband of three years – the man who had swept her off her feet in a whirlwind romance – abused her, physically and emotionally.
“I was married to a man who turned my life into a living hell,” she said.
“I felt like I had no hope.”
This time two years ago Ms Smith was living at Carrie’s Place women’s refuge.
“They helped keep me safe, and helped educate me on what a healthy relationship should be like,” she said.
However, it was not until May 2014 Ms Smith managed to escape the abusive relationship.
But her husband still wielded control over her.
Last November, Ms Smith attempted to take her own life.
She was discovered by police in her home, without a pulse. Ms Smith was rushed to the Calvary Mater Hospital, where doctors revived her.
Though the incident happened more than a year ago, Ms Smith’s recovery is far from over.
She sees her recovery as a journey, and, lately, has found the courage to help others in similar situations.
With the help of her friends Adam Price and Sherrie Mace, Ms Smith produced a song called Bleeding on the Inside, which debuted at a White Ribbon Day breakfast at Wests New Lambton on Wednesday.
It was played to a sold-out crowd of more than 400 at the breakfast, one of a number of events held across the region to take a stand against violence against women.
The lyrics, written by Ms Smith, were fueled by her personal experience.
“My heart was so broken and that’s where the lyrics came from,” she said.
“I really felt like I was bleeding on the inside. [My husband] had hurt me so badly.”
Ms Smith said she never imagined she would write a song, but the words just came to her and she knew she had to share it with the world.
She hoped it would provide a glimmer of hope to other victims of domestic violence.
“My story is not unique; it’s just one of many stories,” she said.
“I hope this song will represent all people across the world who have experienced abuse.
“There is hope and we can actually overcome this blight on society.”
To raise funds for Carrie’s Place, Ms Smith is selling copies of the CD.
It costs $20 and she is willing to post worldwide.
All proceeds will go to the refuge to help fund a purpose-built resource centre.
To buy a copy of Bleeding on the Inside, contact Ms Smith via her business Serenity Sounds’ Facebook page.
Guests on Wednesday were also treated to performances by Hunter School of Performing Arts students and Chakras Dance Group. Newcastle domestic violence survivor Angela Ivancevic gave an address.
