'Real Housewife' Taylor Armstrong visits Fresno, shares story of domestic violence

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- A former reality TV star spent time in Fresno on Friday to share her personal struggle as a victim of domestic violence.

Taylor Armstrong was a cast member on "Real Housewives of Beverly Hills." On Friday, she was the keynote speaker at the Marjaree Mason Center's Top Ten Professional Women and Leading Business Awards.

Armstrong had only been on stage for a minute but already she was brought to tears by the work done at Fresno's Marjaree Mason Center for domestic violence victims.

The luncheon has special meaning for Armstrong, who was a victim of physical abuse by her husband, Russell. Both were featured on the reality show.

Armstrong said, "Once you have a child, it changes things. The dynamic it makes it much more difficult to leave for several reasons. One, if you're with someone you know has a terrible temper and can be violent, the thought of letting them having visitation with your child is terrifying."

Armstrong's appearance at the annual event helped boost ticket sales to more than 900. But what organizers were even more thankful for were her personal stories that shed light on how common domestic violence can be in the homes of millions of women.

"Bringing Taylor Armstrong here is just amazing to show that domestic violence has no boundaries; it can happen to anyone," said Genelle Taylor Kumpe with the Marjaree Mason Center.

"My earliest childhood memory was standing on my bed in my blue zip up pajamas pulling my father's hair as he abused my mother," Armstrong told the crowd.

During Armstrong's visit, she also set aside time to sign copies of her book "Hiding From Reality" and meet with some of her fans.

"It was very nice to meet her," said Karlene Ryan, a Top Ten honoree. "I was here early, so I was one of the first ones here and got to sit and chat with her a little bit; it was nice."

"I wanted to come here and meet her and thank her personally for stepping out and for doing this," said Kathy Cromwell, a Top Ten honoree.

Armstrong is happily remarried now and says being in a healthy relationship and sharing her story helps her not only move on from her past but give strength to her daughter and women across the country who may be suffering from physical abuse.

"I'm thrilled if I could have had an impact on that, that makes me very happy," said Armstrong. "And the numbers are incredible; I do these events all over the country and what a great turnout. Fresno has just done an amazing job supporting the Marjaree Mason Center."