Hi, my name is Nevaeh, I am 22 living in Minneapolis MN.

In 2024, my life changed in an instant. I was shot while being a bystander—I wasn’t involved in any conflict, I wasn’t doing anything wrong, and I never saw it coming. One moment I was just existing, and the next I was fighting to survive.

What has made this even harder is that no one was ever held accountable. There were no answers, no arrests, and no real investigation that led anywhere. I was left not only with physical trauma, but with unanswered questions and a deep sense that my life was shattered without justice or closure.

Since then, I have been struggling in ways that are hard to put into words. The shooting didn’t just hurt my body—it changed my mind, my emotions, and my sense of safety. I deal with PTSD, anxiety, and constant fear. Loud noises, crowds, and everyday situations that used to feel normal now feel overwhelming. I replay that moment over and over, wondering why I survived and how everything was allowed to just… move on.

Before this happened, I had already lived through more than most people my age. I grew up fast. When my mom went through a major loss after having my youngest sister, I stepped up and helped raise her for the first three years of her life. I’ve always been the one who pushes through, who survives, who keeps going even when things are unfair.

But this time has been different.

Since the shooting, I’ve struggled emotionally, mentally, and financially. Healing hasn’t been linear. Some days I feel strong, and other days I feel like I’m barely holding myself together. I’m trying to get back on my feet, continue my education, and move forward with my goal of becoming a veterinary technician—but trauma doesn’t just disappear because you want it to.

I’m seeking therapy, stability, and a chance to truly heal—not just survive. The costs of medical care, mental health support, basic living expenses, and missed work have added up quickly, and it’s been overwhelming to carry alone.

I didn’t choose this. I didn’t deserve this. And I’m doing everything I can to rebuild my life after something that never should have happened.

If you’re able to donate, share, or support in any way, please know it means more than words can express. Your support helps me take steps toward healing, safety, and a future where I’m not defined by the worst moment of my life.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story and for standing with me.

— Nevaeh