Lindsay Stone came to my office for an interview on camera about abusive relationships. She put together a two-part story on a dramatic love triangle that captured the public’s attention. It was an excellent opportunity to share some important information about patterns of abuse and the very high risk when a partner decides to leave the relationship. Most abusive relationships are less dramatic but still traumatic and even tragic because the abused partner slowly gives up large aspects of self and quality of life for children or for the hope of gaining the other’s acceptance and love. And, like this story, murder is a real risk we must keep in mind whenever helping someone take a step toward freedom from abuse.