October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Read and share stories to honor survivors whose lives have been changed by domestic violence.

240,110
total hearts received for Moments That Survive

Isabel Ignacio

In honor of Rodrigo Lee Ignacio

On May 15, 2018, I felt breathless. My brother — my only father figure, my protector — was taken by gun violence. He was outside our front porch when three men in all black came up with a gun out and asked him “if he banged.” My brother stated, “No, I have my little brothers and sisters in the house,” and they shot him in his right cheek. Just like that, my brother was gone. He was a brother of 11. Only 23 at the time, he was the oldest.

I miss him dearly; he leaves behind many remarkable memories. He taught me to be strong and humble. He is my angel and will always be remembered as a strong, helpful and kind person. He was also very thoughtful and loved music and dancing. I love you my brother, forever and always, like you’ve always said.

Reacting shows support for gun violence survivors.

240,110