I am Patricia Oliver, a close friend of Abede and his family since we met under the tragic circumstances of losing my son and his brother in 2018 to gun violence. This fundraising is for the care and expenses incurred after my dear Abede DaSilva got shot Saturday, June 10th, after performing at a local Nashville music venue. It will intend to cover his life-saving treatments, and subsequent mental and physical therapy will come at a high cost for the family who has been by his side throughout this highly harrowing and challenging moment.

Having already survived the Waffle House shooting that took the life of his brother Akilah DaSilva, he became a nationally-recognized champion for change through gun violence prevention and gun law reform by cofounding the Akilah DaSilva Foundation.

He was rushed to the hospital with a severe, life-threatening head wound. The trauma care team worked tirelessly to secure Abede’s condition. Through care and prayer, Abede has entered a more stable state, though he remains in steps 2-3 of trauma care. Abede is now a TWO TIME SURVIVOR of gun violence, as well as an advocate, fighter, performer, artist, brother, son, and community advocate for public safety through his leadership in the Akilah DaSilva Foundation.

His passion for justice is a testament to his spirit, and why this tragedy is a devastating moment for those who love him and for the community depends on his leadership and artistry. Abede is intimately familiar with how gun violence affects communities and families. His mother, Shaundelle Brooks, the pain of again experiencing gun violence against her children has been emotionally excruciating. This GoFundMe is intended to help ensure family stability and the best possible care for Abede as he recovers and attempts to reclaim his power and health after this attack. It will help make the road to recovery more attainable and ensures that Abede can move forward with the confidence and safety he deserves.

 Thank you for contributing. Community solidarity and coordinated care are the bedrock of the State and world we want to build, something that Abede has consistently modeled over the last five years.