Originally from Venezuela, Daviana often visited family in Wisconsin for short stays. On flights triangulating Milwaukee, Mexico, and Venezuela, she didn’t envision a permanent move. Her life changed dramatically when she met a man, charming and loving at first, who asked her to marry and stay in Milwaukee with him. Though she doesn’t regret and wouldn’t change a single aspect of her story, saying it’s what’s made her who she is, it is a story of resilience.
Days and Nights in the NICU
It wasn’t long after they tied the knot and moved in together that Daviana got pregnant. The seemingly nice guy that she married began to show his true colors. Dictating who she spent time with and where she went, forcing her to lie to her father for money, and telling her she wouldn’t amount to anything without him, Daviana wasn’t experiencing the happy marriage she had expected.
In 2019, Daviana gave birth to her son, David. He spent his first month in the NICU, a time when Daviana was determined to be by his side, enduring sleepless nights while managing the emotional toll of an abusive relationship with David's father. This man disguised his anger and control with threats of deportation, making Daviana feel trapped and isolated.
Domestic Violence and Divorce
After enduring the abuse, Daviana found the courage to seek help. UMOS, a nonprofit dedicated to assisting individuals from diverse backgrounds, observed warning signs and acknowledged her disclosure. They referred her to the Milwaukee Women’s Center at Community Advocates, a decision that would mark a turning point in her life.
Entering the Milwaukee Women’s Center in February 2021, Daviana, with her mother, Monica, and son, David, were provided with a stable living situation. Corina, a dedicated advocate at the center, ensured that Daviana and her family were always cared for, continuous acts of kindness that she is endlessly grateful for.
With the support of the Milwaukee Women’s Center, Daviana navigated complex legal matters involving immigration and custody, including helping her change her last name back, a symbolic reclaiming of her identity. Daviana acknowledges all those who have helped her and her family in their time of need and feels supported, empowered, and hopeful about her future.
Homeownership: Growing Up
The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS), selected Community Advocates as one of the homeless assistance providers to receive a Permanent Supportive Housing award. The grant helps implement housing support services, including programs and support for families with children 18 years and younger and individuals who are pregnant. In April 2021, due to advocacy efforts that resulted in this award, Daviana signed a lease of her own.
Her rent was covered for a year, allowing her to focus on saving money and rebuilding her life. This critical step provided her family with the stability necessary to address both Daviana's and David’s health challenges. Though Daviana's medical issues have largely been resolved, David faces lifelong challenges due to a rare chromosomal anomaly known as Prader-Willi syndrome.
Now, Daviana is able to express how proud she is of herself, as she has recently closed on her very first home. She sees this milestone as a starter home, hoping for the opportunity to buy another house, possibly renting it as a source of income. Even when asked where she sees herself in five years and beyond, loving and supporting David is her top priority.
Moving Forward and Giving Back
Today, Daviana aspires to help women who find themselves in similar situations. Grateful for the support she received, she envisions a future where she can give back through organizations like Community Advocates. She expresses a strong desire to help others navigate their challenges and find hope, proving that resilience and support can lead to transformative change.
Through her journey, Daviana has learned that nothing is impossible. From arriving at the Milwaukee Women’s Center with nothing but the clothes on her back to being able to call herself a homeowner, Daviana is rightfully proud of herself and grateful to those who have helped her get to where she is. Daviana is committed to fostering a supportive community. With her mother living with her and helping with David, they are building a strong family unit focused on healing and growth. As she looks to the future, Daviana dreams of creating a stable environment for David and living as a strong, independent woman.
