Goldilocks and The Wolf: A Real-Life Fairytale Of Surviving Domestic Violence
Amanda Tromp and her trusted Siberian Husky, Kyro have become Instagram sensations after sharing stunning photographs from their travels around the United States. Tromp posts her photographs under the handle, Goldilocks and the Wolf, where she plays the famous blonde from the fairytale.
However, their storybook journey begins like most fairytales - in a dark and dangerous place.
"When I adopted Kyro I was trapped in an abusive relationship, in which I had lost all hope of escaping," said Tromp.
Tromp claims her boyfriend of about a year was treating her "like a human punching bag." She endured the abuse, like millions of other women in silence.
"I had several bruises, black eyes, and bloody noses. I lied a lot. I told people I'd fallen down stairs. I was uncomfortable telling people I had been hit," said Tromp.
To get out of the house, Tromp answered an ad on Craigslist volunteering to bottle-feed Siberian husky pups after the mother of the litter was unable to care for them. Tromp says when she first saw Kyro, it was love at first sight. She eventually adopted the pup, but it would be Kyro who would rescue Tromp.
"Kyro became my excuse to go on adventures and escape the situation," said Tromp.
Tromp said Kyro became her salvation from domestic abuse and inspired her to finally leave her abusive relationship.
"Ultimately, I left my Ex due to him beginning to target Kyro with his rage," said Tromp. "Kyro was and is my world- I couldn't bare to see anything happen to him."
Tromp and Kyro spent several months on the road exploring and that's when she developed a passion for photography.
"Capturing our travels together became my inspiration and gave me the bravery to find my happiness and strength once again," said Tromp.
Tromp's mother gave the pair the nick name, "Goldilocks and the Wolf" which is also the name of Tromp's photography business.
Her company is now flourishing online and she has nearly 200,000 followers on Instagram.
"It has not be easy to relive the memories of the past abuse, but my goal is to help inspire others that are in (or were in) situations like mine," said Tromp. "You will find yourself again. I found my four-legged Knight- who knows where yours is waiting."
If you or a loved one are affected by domestic violence, call the Houston Area Women's Center 24-hour hotline at 713-528-2121.
