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total hearts received for Moments That Survive

Alex Fleming

I heard it. Then I saw people run. I saw a group of three people huddle together. I was on the sidewalk. I heard a scream. I felt pressure. Then I felt burning. Then it hit me: I had been shot. Twice. In the chest.

I didn’t know what to do. What I’m sure was a matter of seconds felt like eternity. Call your mom. That’s all I could think.

The phone rang. “Hi sweetie,” my mom said. “Call 911, I’ve been shot,” is what I yelled back. I heard a lot of”what?!” I was silent. Then survivor mode came. Call 911 yourself. So I dialed the number.

That moment forever changed my life. I will never know why I’m the one who survived. After 11 days in the hospital, numerous procedures and lots of care, I’m here, telling my story. Mentally I have a lot to go through, but physically I’m recovered. I’m a survivor; my life changed forever. Two months out, all I can think about is not letting this happen to someone else. No one should be walking down the street to meet their friend for dinner then be shot.

Reacting shows support for gun violence survivors.

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