Seeing her boys after being severely burnt with corrosive acid by their father is what has Shondell Williamson fighting to recover.
She recently arrived in the United States to embark on this journey to physical recovery and begun doctor’s consultations in Boston Massachusetts, which will then see her undergoing a number of surgeries on her face and upper body.
It was after she summoned up the courage to leave 10 years of abuse by the hands of the man she once loved that she was brutally attacked.
Even though she is scared to undergo the surgeries in the coming months, Shondell is grateful to each donor and Non-Governmental Organisation Saving Hands Emergency Aid (SHEA) for spearheading the drive to get her medical help.
She is also advising other women who have exited abusive relationships to be more aware of their surroundings, to better protect themselves.
Now her entire face is completely disfigured – corrosive acid burnt away her nose, eye, and upper body.
The perpetrator, Alfred De Younge, also known as ‘Natta Boy,’ committed the horrendous act while screaming, “If I can’t have you, no one else can.” He is now imprisoned and charged with attempted murder.
Despite her challenges and this setback, she intends on becoming an advocate for domestic violence and wants to help both women and men who are dealing with this prevalent social ill in Guyana.
A number of organisations and businesses made financial donations to Shondel including New Amsterdamers Inc, three amigos, the Benschop Foundation and others.