Oklahoma City Memorial

Oklahoma City Memorial

An act of such senseless loss, immeasurable grief, an inexplicable hatred, and yet, as we explored the grounds, there was also a certain degree of hope, resiliency, and unity. From the survivor’s tree that overlooks the reflecting pool, to a message spray-painted on a neighboring wall by those who helped with cleanup efforts, to the handprints of children from all over the country who sent messages of hope and encouragement—despite the tragedy, the aftermath led to profound examples of the best parts of humanity.

Angie

Angie

On April 10, 2016, I was driving home from a session at my studio in Edgewood, WA when I was rear-ended by a man going (what officers estimated) over 100mph.

I remember seeing the headlights drilling toward me at the speed of light.

I remember exhaling and acknowledging that I was going to die.

Oren

Oren

My employer fired me for not being at work. Every night I had nightmares of Nate being sick in the hospital. There were so many days where all I did was lay in bed. When I would ask for help, I would get shamed. When I told the story to people, others would say that I was lying. I had no support and I was broken.

Annie

Annie

I am me because 12 years ago I was in the worst state of my life. I was mentally beaten down. I was forced into a fantasy world of hate. When I tell you you are not pretty enough or not muscular enough and that no one will like what you have become, you feel trapped and brainwashed like you can see nothing but a straight line ahead of you.

April

April

I couldn’t believe I had let this person do this to me. I couldn’t believe this man that I loved could treat me this way. I was smart and strong and I considered myself a good person; how could I be in this situation?! And then it got worse. When I started fighting back and his controlling and manipulation were not working as well, the emotional abuse expanded to physical.