A survivor of domestic abuse has urged other victims to seek help after being slashed across the head with an axe.
The 45-year-old "can't believe she's still here today" following the sickening brutality unleashed by her then boyfriend.
In a powerful message, she said: "I'd say to anyone going through anything similar, don't hide behind closed doors.”
READ MORE: People who have saved others, inspired and changed lives in Merseyside
The woman, who did not wish to be named, spoke out after her attacker was found guilty of attempted murder after leaving her with an horrific gash across her forehead, six broken ribs and a collapsed lung.
Wayne Ahearne was handed a 30 year sentence for the assault on Thursday.
In a poignant message issued at a time when police say they often see an increase in domestic abuse incidents, she said: “I'd say to anyone going through anything similar, don't hide behind closed doors. It's ok saying - he only hit me - but it could progress into much worse than that. That's often just the start.
"I was so vulnerable at the time and I was so angry after I realised what'd happened but there are so many services out there that can help and it's nothing to be ashamed of.
"[The] sentencing has meant a monster like him has got what he deserves."
The woman was found by a friend on March 13 and taken to hospital where she needed surgery for six hours.
Speaking of a wave of incidents in the build up to the vicious attack, she urged anyone suffering behind closed doors to "report it".
The victim, from Wigan, said: "I've been left vulnerable, anxious and I can't go anywhere on my own. He was a monster. I can't remember the attack - I woke up in hospital and my family were absolutely devastated about what had happened.
"Before the attack, I'd met him through a friend and started seeing him in December. It started by him smashing a window in my home and I thought it wasn't right. Then I later found out he'd taken my bank card without telling me and even strangled me the week before but I didn't report it. I thought he was going to kill me and I was absolutely petrified of him and any repercussions or retaliation.
"If it wasn't for the police and all the work they've done - I wouldn't be here today. The hospital said if I hadn't got medical attention when I did, it could have been a lot worse. I wouldn't wish what happened to me on anyone.
"Going out with family has helped me - especially going shopping as I love going shopping. However, I do keep having flashbacks where I think I'm seeing him or he's walking past me but the support services I've used have taught me how to ground myself and they're beginning to go."
The 45-year-old, who hasn't been able to go back home since the incident, praised Greater Manchester Police for their backing and added: "I've had so much support from the police, the NHS, my family, witness care and an independent violent worker who have all gone above and beyond.”
Ahearne, 55 and of Scot Lane, Wigan, launched a foul-mouthed outburst in court as he was sent down, calling the judge a “ba*****” and a “f****** paedophile”, the Manchester Evening News reported.
Judge Alan Conrad, QC, told him: "You, Wayne Ahearne, are a violent bully who gets his own way by intimidating people… Apart from cases where a death has resulted, this is the worst case of domestic violence that I have ever seen.
"The injuries, resulting from a savage and prolonged attack are terrible, and it is fortunate that your victim survived."
Ahearne was will have to serve at least two-thirds of his 30 year sentence in jail, before the Parole Board can consider whether it is safe to release him.
If he is released before the end of the 30 year term he will remain on licence for the remainder of that sentence, plus a further three years.
Merseyside Police will have specialist domestic abuse detectives available during the Christmas and New Year period to accompany patrol officers to domestic abuse incidents in the family home.
The move is intended to ensure victims receive the best care possible.
Detective Inspector Yoseph Al-Ramadhan said: “We want to ensure victims who have had the courage to tell the police what has happened receive the best possible care and support from us from the very start.
“Our primary focus is to look after the victim, taking them somewhere away from the offender to speak to them about what happened, and getting them the help, they need if they want to break away from the cycle of abuse they may be suffering.”
Merseyside Police would also appeal to families and friends to look out for signs that someone may be a victim of domestic abuse and Det Insp Al-Ramadhan added: “If you have concerns that a family member, a friend or a colleague is a victim of domestic abuse, please contact us.”
*Anyone in immediate danger should call 999.
If you ring 999 and are not in a safe position to speak to then cough or tap the phone and press 55, when prompted. This will alert the operator that you need assistance.
Domestic abuse can also be reported by calling 101, via Twitter (@MerPolCC), or via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online here.
Receive newsletters with the latest news, sport and what's on updates from the Liverpool ECHO by signing up here
