Jamie Louise Madigan's book, "Lipstick Stains and Coffee Cups," is more than a collection of heart-wrenching poetry; it helped her exorcise painful memories of abuse and brings hope to women still lost or entangled in abusive relationships.  For Jamie, writing was the transformative process that allowed her to confront the stark realities of being abused, which, paradoxically, led to her nurturing a powerful sense of self-awareness and empowerment. Jamie's wish for her poems is they serve as both inspiration and a beacon of hope for women overwhelmed and trapped in abusive circumstances. Her journey illustrates how recognizing and articulating one's suffering can be an essential first step toward healing and liberation. Jamie's story is a testament to the resilience and strength of women worldwide who face similar challenges. We’re grateful for Jamie’s contribution to VBB's support of The United Nations 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence.