My name is Joe Dewitt, and I’m a retired, firefighter from Ohio. I’ve enjoyed serving others throughout my career, but now I’m asking for help for my daughter, Celeste, and our family as we work to recover from overwhelming trauma and loss.

Celeste is a survivor of both sexual and domestic violence. Earlier this year, our family endured the painful trial of Celeste’s grandfather, who was convicted for horrific crimes committed against Celeste when she was a child. We stood together as victims seeking justice and closure after years of pain.

Celeste has two younger sisters, who have also been affected by everything our family has been through. We’re doing everything we can to provide them with a sense of safety, stability, and hope again.

Just one week after that trial ended, Celeste witnessed the violent death of her close friend, Nathan Flight, who had been trying to help her escape a dangerous domestic situation. Her estranged husband, was later incarcerated in connection with the incident. Recently, his bond was reduced, and he was released, which has uprooted our family’s lives once again as we try to navigate safety concerns and emotional distress.

Since these events, Celeste has lost her home and her job, and her mother lost hers while dealing with repeated hospitalizations for Celeste and the grief and exhaustion of trying to help everyone recover.

We are raising funds to help with:

Legal and victim advocacy support for both cases

Divorce and bankruptcy filings for Celeste

Housing, transportation, medical, and basic living expenses for Celeste

Celeste has shown tremendous strength and resilience through trauma no one should ever endure. As her father, it’s heartbreaking to see her and all the parties involved living in fear and instability after so much loss.

Any support — whether through donations, shares, or prayers — will go directly toward helping my daughter and our family recover, heal, and rebuild. Thank you for taking the time to read our story and for standing with survivors of violence and trauma.

With gratitude,

Joe Dewitt and Family