On July 4, 2022, I attended my first Independence Day parade with my husband and three year old daughter in Highland Park. We had moved to Highland Park in 2018, and my daughter was elated to attend her first parade. But that all changed at 10:14 a.m., when I was shot through the pelvis. My husband was a hero that day — grabbing our daughter and running through gunfire to get her to safety, and then returning to try and get me out. I remember lying there, in the moment, thinking that I couldn’t believe this happened to me.
I got lucky — I’m alive. Had the bullet gone in just slightly in another direction I may not be able to share my story.
I was so overwhelmed by the amazing support of the entire HP community — people I didn’t know bringing us food, offering to babysit, offering to help with errands and chores. It was amazing. Now, I’m focused on continuing to get better every day and trying to stay positive and be thankful for my family, friends, medical team and adorable little kiddo!!