Gun violence must end. I never knew the extent of it, how utterly destructive and horrific it was, until it took my son Shane from this world.
At some point I’m going to really realize … that he is not away at school … and I will not wake up from this.
For every single statistic, there is an absolutely devastated mother, a distraught and heartbroken father, an exceptionally sad, confused brother or sister. These are your friends that will never call or text again. Never laugh or smile … never feel the sun on their face again.
Shane was shot and killed as he walked into crossfire between gangs. He was on his way home from buying hangers. He couldn’t wait to unpack his clothes and begin his new life, attending Northwestern University, pursuing a Ph.D. He was in the city less than five hours.
He was only 25. Shane was kind. He wanted to help youth at risk for mental illness. He would have made a difference in this world. He had already begun to do just that.
I long for a day that my heart doesn’t hurt. There are more of us working to end gun violence than there are those individuals who continue to use guns to take innocent lives. It starts with support for the at-risk youth. Role models for these youth cannot be older gang members. This cycle must be broken!! It will take a tremendous effort from the community!
We cannot thank you enough … all who have and continue to help us deal with the loss of our beautiful son Shane … and who continue to help us as we seek justice and closure.
To my baby Shane … A beautiful mind … An amazing soul and such a loving heart.
I love you, my son … Miss you every minute of every single day.❤