Recently, our 15-year-old son was the intended target of a premeditated act that authorities have charged as attempted murder. By grace, and because someone had the courage to speak up, he is still here with us today. We are profoundly grateful for the anonymous tip that helped protect him, a quiet act of bravery that made all the difference.
While we are deeply relieved that our son is safe, the emotional impact of this experience has been profound. Our focus now is helping him feel secure again and giving him the time, care, and support he needs to heal. He is working through trauma and anxiety, and we are committed to providing the counseling, stability, and resources that will help him regain his sense of safety and move forward with confidence.
Like many families facing unexpected trauma, we are doing everything we can to help our son heal, regain his sense of safety, and navigate the financial and practical challenges that come with recovery.
Weekly trauma-informed counseling for our son is about $120 per session, and the support here is helping us make sure he can continue getting the care he needs.
Funds raised will help with:
• Trauma-informed counseling and mental health support for our son
• Medical care and recovery-related expenses
• Lost income and travel related to therapy, appointments, and court proceedings
• Academic support while he focuses on healing
• Relocation assistance if it becomes necessary for his well-being
Because of the trauma our son experienced, he requires regular counseling and medical appointments. I have had to pause my second job indefinitely so I can be present for him and take him to the care he needs. This loss of income has been a significant strain on our family, and the support we receive helps us focus on his healing rather than the financial pressure.
Even sharing this story publicly was not an easy decision for our family. We chose to speak because we believe awareness matters, and because courage, like the courage shown by the person who spoke up, can truly save lives.
There are moments in life when everything can change in an instant. For our family, one of those moments came when someone chose courage over silence. Because of that decision, our son is still here with us today.
We were fortunate enough to thank this person privately, and that moment is something we will carry with us forever. Their bravery reminds us that even in the darkest situations, there are people willing to step forward to protect others. If it ever becomes possible, I hope to find a meaningful way to thank them again, because to our family they will always be the hero of this story.
To everyone who has supported our family, shared our story, or simply kept us in your thoughts, please know that your kindness has helped us find strength during an incredibly difficult time. Your compassion reminds us that even in the face of fear and uncertainty, we are not alone.
From the bottom of our hearts, thank you.