I thought I had escaped. But within an hour or two, Leo simply came over and snatched Gitelle, taking her home with him. He threatened to kidnap her and take her abroad, having no sympathy for me or concern for our daughter’s welfare. If he could survive in an unknown country, Gitelle could too.

I felt ill - I knew I could never leave her - what should I do? - I needed help. But this was the 1960’s, and women did not have the rights that they do today. I was told that there was nothing I could do.

I was at a dead end. If I left Leo, I would lose my daughter too.

Then came a phone call that broke my heart. Poor little Gitelle whispered to me on the other end of the phone, hiding from her father and begging me to come home.

Of course I went back. My heart went out to my child. She was my priority, and I would do anything for her.