In all of the madness stood two addicts: one severely addicted to alcohol and drugs, and the other just as addicted to the addict…In my sickness–the sickness of this toxic love addiction–his threats were the only words I wanted and needed to hear. In my world, Ronny’s words meant that he still LOVED me.

… . .

Ashlee Donohue’s first home was a tin shack on the banks of the Hat Head creek. A proud Aboriginal woman from the Dunghutti nation, born and raised in Kempsey NSW, Ashlee was determined to keep her family together, despite the unforgivable acts and consequences, to ultimately give them what she never had–the presence of their father.

Because I love him is a privileged insight into strong and sacred family ties, and the intricacies of relationships and expectations within urban Aboriginal communities. It is a personal account of love, addiction, motherhood, domestic violence, and the impact on women, children and families.