My son’s name is Christopher Tashane Byrd. Chris was a victim of gun violence. He was shot and killed on June 4, 2013. He was 26 years old. That was the worst day of my life.
Seven years ago, life as I knew it was torn down. That morning, I waved to my son as he went to work. He said, “I love you, Ma,” and I said, “Love you too.” The day went by; then I couldn’t breathe anymore. All because someone decided to play God and end his life. Chris will forever be 26 years old.
Chris had a daughter on the way at the time of his death. A daughter that he didn’t get to meet, at least not physically. My granddaughter’s father was stolen from her before she had a chance to grow and be Daddy’s little girl.
My son was a giant—larger than life. His smile was radiant, his personality infectious, and his love for life incomparable.
In this same way, our family lives on for him. Through this tragedy, we try to bring healing. Chris was a real person, and I will always do my very best to keep his memory alive.