Friday, May 23, 2014

Oneta Bobbett: Rebuilding the Abused

Oneta Bobbett: Committed to helping others.

I’m delighted to know Oneta Bobbett, a courageous and dedicated advocate for survivors of domestic violence. Ten years ago, Onetta helped found Jaden’s Ladder to assist victims with life-enhancing programs and the kind of support that builds confidence in former victims while fostering self-reliance.

A former beauty pageant winner, Oneta says was thrilled to represent the State of New Hampshire, where she was raised, in the Mrs. United States pageant. But today, it's all about her family and helping others.

“I named Jaden’s Ladder after my son Jaden,” Oneta told me. “The name Jaden means ‘God has heard.’ He hears when we cry out and we have to hear those crying out. It’s important to maintain a commitment to mankind—especially those in trouble—and to help people in the times of their greatest needs.”

Oneta’s commitment to others comes from personal experiences. On her website, she explains that she had once found herself in an abusive relationship. The experience left her with filled with doubt and confusion, asking herself what she had done wrong to land her in such a situation.

Eventually her boyfriend and long-time friend became her worst enemy. Her abuser, the man she thought she loved, beat and choked her. It was then that she believed she'd lose her life to his hands. Luckily, on that day, Oneta's sister was anxiously trying to contact her and sent police to her house when she felt "something was wrong". From that day on, Oneta vowed to get stronger and make better choices in life.

Oneta Bobbett’s commitment 10 years ago has made a difference in people’s lives ever since. And that’s what it’s all about.

1 comment:

Unknown said...

This is a good read. It is true, many victims of domestic violence end up becoming victimized by their significant other. It is a shame, and something needs to be done about it. Usually people just walk on by and chalk it up as "just a regular relationship, with it's ups and downs". But when did it ever become right for a man to put his hands on a woman. It's one thing if it's a life or death matter. In that case "self-preservation" takes priority. Don't get me wrong, I've had a woman beat on me, and I wanted to lash back... but I didn't. I got the hell out of there and acted in a way that would make my MOM and DAD proud. Just think, how would you feel if you saw a man beating on your sister or mother? You'd probably put him in the hospital, and you'd be justified. The next time you see or hear about someone beating on a woman, do something about it. You don't have to physically do something about it, you could call the proper authorities (the police)... but do something about it. Your actions could save a life. Just remember, that woman could have been your mom.