DOMESTIC VIOLENCE: HOW LONG?
The first time I treated a victim of domestic abuse for eye injuries I was livid. I wanted her to leave immediately and cause the arrest of the abuser. I almost threatened to refuse treatment if that wasn't done. When she hesitated i asked her to go for a police report before I discharge her. I was a fresh graduate and was filled with righteous anger. Fortunately, my then supervisor and mentor was the head of the unit and called me into her office. She expressed equal concern for the victim but asked me to have patience and LISTEN to the story from her point of view. After getting fully acquainted with the story I understood exactly the myriad complexities of the situation she faced as a religious person, mother and unfortunately an economically unempowered spouse. I realized although I was justified in my anger, it was better and more productive to be pragmatic and empathize. In a country where you are actually asked to feed a criminal you get arrested and where...