On the recordOctober 30, 2013
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Unconscionably, domestic violence has reached pandemic proportions, affecting one out of every three women in the United States. As an emergency medicine doctor, I have witnessed firsthand the devastating effects of domestic violence. I have treated the beaten and bruised bodies of countless women who were victims of domestic violence, and I have been inspired by their unbroken spirits. I am proud of the work that many are doing to prevent domestic violence and keep women safe throughout my district and our country, like Shelter from the Storm in the Coachella Valley. Domestic violence is a leading threat for women. On average, four women are murdered by their intimate partner every day in the United States. A woman is battered in the U.S. every 15 seconds. That equals 240 domestic violence episodes in one hour. No woman should ever suffer domestic violence, and those who are victimized should know that they have access to the care and services they need to seek justice. We must continue to work together to take steps to prevent domestic violence, stand up for those who are victims, and hold perpetrators accountable to the full extent of the law. To my patients in my district and women victims across the country, please, never give up. ____________________





