Nicola Hanney

From Darkness to Strength: Nicola Hanney's Inspiring Journey

Nicola Hanney's new book details her harrowing experience with coercive control—and how she emerged stronger than ever!

Nicola Hanney, a courageous survivor of a harrowing four-year ordeal at the hands of her ex-partner, former Garda Paul Moody, has recently released her powerful memoir, "Stronger: What Didn’t Kill Me, Made Me." In her gripping account, she opens up about the psychological and emotional abuse she faced while he wore the badge, revealing the layers of coercive control that felt suffocating at times. With the backdrop of her life in turmoil, this memoir is not just a personal tale but a clarified mission: to shed light on the realities of coercive control for many who suffer in silence.

In her recent appearance on "The Late Late Show," Nicola spoke openly with host Patrick Kielty about her journey to recovery and empowerment. Her powerful testimony resonated with viewers, particularly when she said, "He can’t hide behind his badge!" This statement hit home for many, emphasizing a critical message about accountability and the need for systems to support victims rather than protect perpetrators. The stark honesty in Nicola’s voice painted a picture of resilience that many found inspiring.

As she shared her story, Nicola recounted the emotional weight and trauma she endured, saying it's "soul destroying" to survive such experiences. Yet, she brightly noted realizing, "I feel so lucky to be alive," urging others to recognize their strength in adversity. The support she’s received from the public after her revelations is monumental, as viewers of the show expressed praise and admiration for her bravery, fueling the hope that her story will empower others to stand against abuse.

Nicola's journey emphasizes the importance of storytelling in healing and inspires a community to speak out. In Ireland, it’s becoming increasingly vital to educate society about the various forms of abuse, especially coercive control, and the emotional toll it takes on victims. As she embarks on this brave new chapter, her memoir not only serves as an eye-opener but also as a beacon of hope for others facing similar struggles.

In addition to being the first person in Ireland to have a conviction under the domestic violence law, Paul Moody’s case has become a landmark example of how critical discussions about abusive relationships need to be made more prevalent in modern society. Nicola's determination to share her experience could spark change, urging legislative reforms and community support for those caught in the cycle of coercive control. Statistics show that a significant percentage of abuse survivors remain silent—Nicola Hanney’s public dialogue challenges that silence, paving the way for others to follow suit.