Recently central Ohio news station WBNS 10TV shared a story that left me in tears. They conducted an interview with Bonnie Bowes, whose daughter, Judy Malinowski, was set on fire at a Columbus, OH gas station on August 2, 2015. The person who is responsible for this heinous crime is Judy's ex-boyfriend, Michael Slager.

Judy is a 33 year old Mother of two. Her body is covered by burns, and blisters as a result of burns, and that makes mobility nearly impossible. She lost the ability to speak due to her airway being burned. This past June, a speaking valve has helped Judy speak to tell the horrific events of that day and who was responsible for the attack. On Monday December 12, Slager was sentenced to 11 years in prison on charges of aggravated arson and felonious assault. Now you may think 11 years is the minimum. I hate to say it, but that is the maximum sentence given for the charges.

When the 10TV reporter asked Judy what sentence was appropriate, she answered with one word; "Life." Our justice system has failed this victim. Due to the incredibly horrible actions of this man, Judy may not survived. Doctors have told her mother, Bonnie, that they need to be prepared for her to succumb to her injuries. Michael Slager left her unable to move by herself, burns and blisters covering her body, unable to care for her two daughters, and nearly unable to speak (thankfully she can now). She describes his reaction while she was being burned alive: "He was looking at me with this look, and it was so evil. It was the worst look I have ever seen."

Judy shared her story in hopes to encourage women in abusive relationships to "Get help, run." If you or someone you know is in an abusive relationship, please reach out and get help. The National U.S. Hotline for Domestic Violence victims is 1-800-799-7233.

*There has been a go fund me set up to help Judy's daughters, if you would like to donate, please copy and paste this link: https://www.gofundme.com/hope-and-help-for-judy