Not just a Statistic

I have to admit, the first time I saw this poster, put out by the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, with Shaniel's name on it, I cried! 

There were 385 confirmed deaths from domestic violence in 2013. And that's not including the hundreds that were not reported as news. Far from it. It's so hard to believe. And it's even harder to believe and actually see that Shaniel's name was on this list. 

Shaniel was not just a statistic! She was a loving mother in the prime of her life. She was a beloved daughter. A sister. A granddaughter. A niece. A friend. She was a compassionate and skilled nurse. She was loved by all those who knew her. And she loved. She was a real person. Let us never forget that. The years will continue to march on, but let's keep her memory alive by honoring her name and all those who have lost their lives from domestic violence. No one deserves to be murdered by their spouse. There are no excuses! 

Let us all remember the love and joy Shaniel brought into our lives. Let us remember the many wonderful and treasured memories we made with her. 

Even though her life was cut short by an incomprehensible and senseless murder, she made a difference and touched many lives for the good in the short amount of time she lived on earth. 

As her mother, Shaniel will be forever on my mind and forever in my heart. As I know she will be in each of yours.

We will continue to share Shaniel's Story and help bring awareness to the harmful and, often times, fatal effects of domestic violence. We will continue to share our story... one that prospers a hopeful and joyful life. We have faith in a loving God who wraps us up in his loving arms and tells us everything is going to be all right. We will see our Shaniel again. She will never be just a statistic! No, never!