As many of you know, my mom Susan Kimes was the victim of a shooting yesterday. My mom has always been fiercely protective of her children and grandchildren. Yesterday, she was helping my sister escape her abusive husband. My sister had sought help from First Step, and she was attempting to get a protective order against him for herself and her child.

Tragically, when they went to rescue my sister’s dogs and grab a few essential items, so my sister could make her escape, her husband was waiting to attack them. Based on her injuries, my mother put herself in the line of fire in an attempt to fight off their attacker and protect my sister. And while I have always known my mom would take a bullet for either one of us, I never thought that would be a reality.

My mother’s injuries are extensive. She was shot three times once through the jaw and twice in the chest. She has one surgery down with more to come. She is currently in a medically induced coma. She has a tracheotomy, a feeding tube, and her jaw has been wired shut. She faces a long journey towards recovery.

So many people have reached out and we have been so appreciative of your thoughts and prayers. If you feel moved to contribute to her care and recovery in this time of need, her family would be grateful for any help.