Silent Witness receives many thank yous from grateful families and friends who receive shawls and scarves. Here is just a sampling:
* I just received the two boxes of shawls that you sent - THANK YOU!!! I feel like I'm swimming in them!
I had a magical day today... I had to take our shelter van to the shop for some service. When I was ready to leave, the cashier looked at my ticket and saw "Women's Resource Center" and asked me, "Is this for battered women?" I said yes. Then she asked me, "Do you get federal funding that covers this?" I told her that we received some, but we rely mostly on grants and donations. She handed me back the credit card and insisted that she pay for our bill herself, saying that she knew "what its like," and reached for her purse. She didn't take no for an answer.
As soon as I got back in the van, I knew I had to go back to the shelter and get her a shawl and bring it right over to her. When I gave it to her she had this look of wonder on her face. It was beautiful. She kept saying, "You didn't have to do this..."
It was a nice moment.
Susan
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* I wanted to let you know that all of the shawls and scarves have been received and they are beautiful! I'm sorry I did not get back to you earlier, but things have been hectic. Two of the shawls went to adult daughters of a woman that was killed in Williamsburg County. Her murderer was convicted last week and sentenced to 40 years. I am in the process of contacting another woman whose daughter was raped and murdered by a neighbor. The neighbor was supposed to be in prison on a violation of probation and a bond error resulted in his release. This happened in the fall of last year and the mother is having a terrible time - particularly because this would not have occurred if the system had worked! I know that a shawl will bring her a little bit of comfort.
I wanted to get a mailing address for you, because I'd like to make a contribution. As a non-profit my organization is not able to do so, but I would like to help with the cost of the shipping - I hope that you will continue to be able to "do what you do" for a long time!
Thanks,
Anne
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* In searching the web for domestic violence issues I met Nancy Rafi in Rhode Island.
There was a link for a FREE shawl on the website. Not knowing how fabulous this was about to be, I asked her to send my mother one and my sister since Mama is living with her at this time in Raleigh, NC. I went to visit with my younger sister this past Saturday, and was so moved to find that from my interest through emails to Nancy Rafi, that she had three shawls sent (yes, one for me also). This is truly a comfort to sit with my shawl over my shoulders. All of us were very thankful and I will be writing to my knitter since she did a splendid job on the one I picked. Hilda Pizzuti is her name, and I feel the love she put in this while she sat and worked. Just wanted to write you after reading parts of your newsletter today at work. What wonderful things you are doing.
My youngest sister Danette Streater was murdered by her so-called boyfriend in 1998.
We may never find peace without her. She was one of the kindest, and most precious women anyone could know. Now, we don’t get to grow old with her in our lives. Sorry this is so long. I must go, but thanks.
With a loving heart, Debby
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This woman received a shawl that was purchased from the Sheila Shawl Extravaganza and sent to her as a surprise. Her donor wrote to her just after this message.
* Today, I recieved the most beautiful SW shawl in the mail. There was no note accompanying it, so I suspect I have a good fairy out there somewhere. I'm incredibly moved by the generosity of this person. Although I haven't lost somebody to domestic violence, I am a survivor, and the gift of the shawl is the loveliest, most nurturing thing anybody has done for me in a long time. :) I can already hear my girlfriends oohhing and ahhing over it and I'll love telling them where it came from.
Would you please pass on my loving thanks to the gift-giver, as well as the maker of the BEAUTIFUL shawl - called "Over The Rainbow". I will wear it proudly and think of you amazing people at SW, my own survival, my sister survivors and of course, those who didn't survive.
Peace,
Louise - Australia
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* Thank you so much for the shawl you sent for our National Advisory Board launch. One of TCFV's board members attended the launch in DC and spoke about the tragic loss of her daughter at the hands of her daughter's husband. Sheryl presented the board member with the shawl after her speech. It was very touching and I know she sincerely appreciated it.
Thanks from a mother of a victim:
My name is Irene S, and my daughter Megan Fischer was murdered March 22, 2003. My darling cousin Betty B, provided you with the names of my family, and we each received "Sheila's Shawls". What a wonderful organization. I can't thank you enough for your care, love and support for us, and others who have been victimized. The shawls have brought us such comfort and a sense of peace.The ladies who knit these shawls must be very special indeed. Their creations bring smiles and tears. The healing process becomes easier knowing how much people really care. The ladies I would like to thank are: Terry Wickstrom, Noreen Rite, and Merilu Jennings. God bless all of you and watch over you and your families.
My daughter Megan was such a loving, lively and beautiful woman. She trusted a friend, and he repaid her by taking her life. I wish you had known her. She would light up a room with her smile. Her laugh was so intoxicating, you couldn't help but laugh yourself. She was such a strong, proud and bright woman. She put herself through Culinary School, and graduated with honors, while working two jobs! She was so generous with her family and friends, giving of her time and self constantly. She was the most caring, loving, gentle, fun, energetic and beautiful person I ever knew. She will be missed by so many. Thank you again Janet, and thank you to the Silent Witness National Initiative. You have a wonderful organization.
Forgive the lateness of this thank you for the Sheila Wellstone "Sheila Shawls". My cousin Irene and her sons were very comforted by the shawls. Their family has been at such a tragic loss without their daughter/sister. The stepfather felt very left out so I gave him my shawl. He went on to explain that all involved were very aware of the immediate family's loss and not one person asked how he is doing or maintaining through the tragedy. He made a very important impact statement at the trial and truly has been very upset. I felt he needed this shawl more than I. We are all very impressed with the craftsmanship of the shawls and the great comfort they bring. Please thank all that worked on these shawls and express what a great comfort they have brought at this time of extreme pain.
My shawl refers to Solbeig Halbakken, Fergus Falls, - please extend my extreme gratitude to her for the comfort of the shawl, and explain that I haven given it to the stepfather who is in great pain. This was my first experience directly with domestic violence and all the pain caused. I wish to God that there was a way to end ALL violence in the world, but especially towards women. When will it end. Again many, many thanks to all involved in this project. Keep up the special work you do. Betty B
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Note from a woman who donated money for the shawl project:
Thanks for your note. I came across your shawl project while researching prayer shawls on the internet. I am in the process of starting a prayer shawl ministry at our church with a group of women. As a child, I experienced the heartache and fear of domestic violence with a very abusive, alcoholic father. Fortunately, my mother was able to get away with her seven children. I hope my contribution can provide some help for comforting other women. Teresa M.
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Thank you from Minnesota:
Thank you for the beautiful shawl. The day I received the shawl, my
grandsons ages 10 & 11 (whom we finally got custody of after a year long battle) asked what it was for. I explained how to wear it or just to hold it when having a hard or bad day. They both started to argue over who was going to hold it that night. It definitely has a calming effect, they hold the shawl and sit or lay perfectly still. Maybe they feel their mothers love and affection coming through the softness of the shawl. Thank you again, Brenda J mother to Krista who was murdered by her husband March 24, 2002.
The Story of a DV Homicide Victim in Chicago: Cathy Bradley and her father Henry Woods Jr. were murdered in their home on April 24th, 2003 by her boyfriend. Southwest Women Working Together, a community-based women's organization where Cathy was an active participant for the past three years, honored Cathy at their annual Take Back the Night march and rally on May 1, 2003. Only a week after the tragic loss of her mother and grandfather, Cathy's daughter, Qianesha Vallot, together with her brother Jimi Bradley, spoke in front of over 250 community members at the rally about her great loss. Qianesha was very brave, and we are grateful and proud to have the opportunity to honor her and her aunt Jovan Woods each with beautiful shawls. We will remember Cathy and hold a place for her in our hearts always.
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In memory of a homicide victim in MN:
Nancy J was a 42-year-old Certified Nurse's Aid who devoted her life to taking care of the elderly. Her life was taken by the man she trusted to be her partner on October 1, 2001. His trial for her murder begins July 14, 2003. She is deeply missed and will never be forgotten." A Note from a SW activist in Missouri: Thank you for the wonderful newsletter every month. I always read them, even if it takes me a week or so to complete. This month's newsletter contains a story about a woman, Krista, from MN, who was murdered on March 24, 2002, by her husband. I was particularly struck by the fact that she leaves behind an identical twin sister, Karla. I, too, have an identical twin sister, and I cannot imagine losing her so tragically. Twins share a special bond with one another. Identical twins share a bond that seems almost like each is a part of the other's body and mind. Because of our similar backgrounds, I feel drawn to Karla, and I would like to knit her a scarf. Recently, I began knitting colorful scarves with the new, fun yarns that have just started showing up at the knit shops here in St. Louis. I have truly enjoyed creating something from scratch, which is a new venture for me. (I am a beginner 'knitter', so I cannot follow patterns or knit anything as large as a shawl, but I have learned to knit these colorful, fun scarves that you see everyone wearing lately.) From the beginning, I wanted to be able to knit the scarves well enough to give them away to individuals and organizations. It would be an honor to give my first donated scarf to Karla. May I ask you to help me arrange to send the scarf, upon completion, to her? Love, Sally K
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Follow up on the Twin mentioned above:
Hi again. I am in a twinless twins group and there are 2 people that I would love to have a shawl. I thought it would be some comfort to them like it has been for me. Yes one of the twins did lose their twin to domestic violence. The circumstance in this situation is different than mine. I will share with you what happened. Tina is who I talk to. Her twin sister was murdered by her husband. The husband shot and killed Terri (Tina's twin), their 6 yr old son, and himself. She has been great a help to me in understanding the feelings that I am going through right now. She has gone through them herself and I thought that a shawl would bring her much comfort like mine has given to me. Again I want to thank you and everyone who puts their hearts and love into these shawls. My twinless twins will love them.
I know for myself it gives me great comfort. I sleep with the shawl every single night. I truly appreciate all the time and effort all of you put into making these shawls.
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Oklahoma gives Shawl at billboard opening: Karen Hill writes that they are planning to give a shawl to the grandmother of a DV homicide victim. The victims name was Jody Lynch, G'ma's name is Ruth. Jody was beaten and her abuser hit her so hard in the chest that her heart burst. She had 2 children who witnessed the incident. Thank you for this project. We will present the shawl to G'ma at our kick off for our DV bill boards project.
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Note from an activist in Tacoma, following the death of Crystal Brame, wife of the chief of police: Crystal's God Mother has been speaking at local gatherings for the family. We as women and volunteers have been rallying for a change within the system of the city council with regard to a special reporting agency for women of officers and public officials. They need extra protection because of the stature of their mates. We are working diligently on what is called the Crystal Clear Act. Today we bury Crystal and speak out at the local park against DV with many organizations in support of changes. I am writing you today because of your offering of shawls for loved ones whom have lost a daughter, mother or relative from DV.
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Thank you from Montana:I wanted to tell you that the shawls and scarf are greatly appreciated. Jenn's 85 yr-old grandma immediately selected the sea green shawl, Jenn used to sing about "the sea of green" from the song Yellow Submarine while sitting in the trees of our yard. Although her arthritic fingers make grasping difficult, she holds the shawl and feels memories that are too painful to think about. The other shawl and scarf belong to a miraculous guardian angel of a friend who walked with me through months of grief-disabilitating days. She will feel comfort and hope from the shawl on chilly Montana evenings as she awaits the birth of her first child. And the hopes and dreams of the new mother and baby will be wrapped in thoughts of what wondrous gifts our children are. The shawls and scarf are tangible reminders of the love that my daughter, Jennifer O, made humbling to the proudest father in the world. I've created a memorial scholarship in my daughter's honor at her high school. Reading the hopes and optimism of the future that is written by applicants - soon-to-be graduates, has been difficult because they are the same hopes that were viciously stolen from my daughter through a selfish, cowardly act of domestic violence. I also wrote a song that gives a way for me to express my feelings, and it has been nice that Jenn's grandma has shared it with so many friends and that copies of the song on CD are going into so many hands. It is a way for me to help Jennifer live on in the hearts of so many who love and support each other in this little community. Thank you and all involved, for your work in the program. its too bad that such a support group even needs to exist, but thank God for the good people in the world. Norm O
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Thank you from RI: We received our shawl and quilt on Friday. They are both beautiful! Thank you so very much, for myself and Frankie. Frankie would like to send Augusta a little note, if that would be o.k. My birthday falls on Mother's day this year, so I consider my shawl the most wonderful gift I could possibly receive. Many, many, thanks to all involved. Robyn
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Frank B, Oregon
Frank lost his sister to DV
Hi Janet,
Thank you for your kind note and the prior SW emails. I enjoy being in the loop and on the road to more participation in the cause to stop domestic violence. The day after we met in Portland, there was a short article with my picture in the local paper. I am always amazed at how many people respond to me when I have been in the press, and how favorably they respond. It excites me to think that I can really make a difference, I know my sister is proud. I honesty can't wait to get going.
I would love a scarf! I haven't seen or heard of any in Portland yet. I think a red one would be appropriate for me, as it corresponds with the Silent Witness figures. Again, thank you for your kindness and thoughtfulness. I hope we meet again.
And when he received the scarf:
I received the scarf as you said, thank you!!! It brings me comfort for my loss and at the same time helps me feel a great resolve to work to stop domestic violence. As we talked earlier, I am excited to help in any way I can. I will be doing my research, gathering data, preparing talks, gathering ideas and will contact you for advice.
Please pass on my thanks for the scarf to its maker, Edrie Zweber, of Inver Grove Heights, Minnesota. "Ms. Zweber, you have given me a physical rememberance of my lost sister which I treasure and a symbol of my resolve to make a difference."
Pat Lupson and Warren Lupson: Maryland
Pat and Warren lost their daughter and two grandsons to DV
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* I just received the two boxes of shawls that you sent - THANK YOU!!! I feel like I'm swimming in them!
I had a magical day today... I had to take our shelter van to the shop for some service. When I was ready to leave, the cashier looked at my ticket and saw "Women's Resource Center" and asked me, "Is this for battered women?" I said yes. Then she asked me, "Do you get federal funding that covers this?" I told her that we received some, but we rely mostly on grants and donations. She handed me back the credit card and insisted that she pay for our bill herself, saying that she knew "what its like," and reached for her purse. She didn't take no for an answer.
As soon as I got back in the van, I knew I had to go back to the shelter and get her a shawl and bring it right over to her. When I gave it to her she had this look of wonder on her face. It was beautiful. She kept saying, "You didn't have to do this..."
It was a nice moment.
Susan
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* I wanted to let you know that all of the shawls and scarves have been received and they are beautiful! I'm sorry I did not get back to you earlier, but things have been hectic. Two of the shawls went to adult daughters of a woman that was killed in Williamsburg County. Her murderer was convicted last week and sentenced to 40 years. I am in the process of contacting another woman whose daughter was raped and murdered by a neighbor. The neighbor was supposed to be in prison on a violation of probation and a bond error resulted in his release. This happened in the fall of last year and the mother is having a terrible time - particularly because this would not have occurred if the system had worked! I know that a shawl will bring her a little bit of comfort.
I wanted to get a mailing address for you, because I'd like to make a contribution. As a non-profit my organization is not able to do so, but I would like to help with the cost of the shipping - I hope that you will continue to be able to "do what you do" for a long time!
Thanks,
Anne
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* In searching the web for domestic violence issues I met Nancy Rafi in Rhode Island.
There was a link for a FREE shawl on the website. Not knowing how fabulous this was about to be, I asked her to send my mother one and my sister since Mama is living with her at this time in Raleigh, NC. I went to visit with my younger sister this past Saturday, and was so moved to find that from my interest through emails to Nancy Rafi, that she had three shawls sent (yes, one for me also). This is truly a comfort to sit with my shawl over my shoulders. All of us were very thankful and I will be writing to my knitter since she did a splendid job on the one I picked. Hilda Pizzuti is her name, and I feel the love she put in this while she sat and worked. Just wanted to write you after reading parts of your newsletter today at work. What wonderful things you are doing.
My youngest sister Danette Streater was murdered by her so-called boyfriend in 1998.
We may never find peace without her. She was one of the kindest, and most precious women anyone could know. Now, we don’t get to grow old with her in our lives. Sorry this is so long. I must go, but thanks.
With a loving heart, Debby
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This woman received a shawl that was purchased from the Sheila Shawl Extravaganza and sent to her as a surprise. Her donor wrote to her just after this message.
* Today, I recieved the most beautiful SW shawl in the mail. There was no note accompanying it, so I suspect I have a good fairy out there somewhere. I'm incredibly moved by the generosity of this person. Although I haven't lost somebody to domestic violence, I am a survivor, and the gift of the shawl is the loveliest, most nurturing thing anybody has done for me in a long time. :) I can already hear my girlfriends oohhing and ahhing over it and I'll love telling them where it came from.
Would you please pass on my loving thanks to the gift-giver, as well as the maker of the BEAUTIFUL shawl - called "Over The Rainbow". I will wear it proudly and think of you amazing people at SW, my own survival, my sister survivors and of course, those who didn't survive.
Peace,
Louise - Australia
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* Thank you so much for the shawl you sent for our National Advisory Board launch. One of TCFV's board members attended the launch in DC and spoke about the tragic loss of her daughter at the hands of her daughter's husband. Sheryl presented the board member with the shawl after her speech. It was very touching and I know she sincerely appreciated it.
Thanks from a mother of a victim:
My name is Irene S, and my daughter Megan Fischer was murdered March 22, 2003. My darling cousin Betty B, provided you with the names of my family, and we each received "Sheila's Shawls". What a wonderful organization. I can't thank you enough for your care, love and support for us, and others who have been victimized. The shawls have brought us such comfort and a sense of peace.The ladies who knit these shawls must be very special indeed. Their creations bring smiles and tears. The healing process becomes easier knowing how much people really care. The ladies I would like to thank are: Terry Wickstrom, Noreen Rite, and Merilu Jennings. God bless all of you and watch over you and your families.
My daughter Megan was such a loving, lively and beautiful woman. She trusted a friend, and he repaid her by taking her life. I wish you had known her. She would light up a room with her smile. Her laugh was so intoxicating, you couldn't help but laugh yourself. She was such a strong, proud and bright woman. She put herself through Culinary School, and graduated with honors, while working two jobs! She was so generous with her family and friends, giving of her time and self constantly. She was the most caring, loving, gentle, fun, energetic and beautiful person I ever knew. She will be missed by so many. Thank you again Janet, and thank you to the Silent Witness National Initiative. You have a wonderful organization.
Forgive the lateness of this thank you for the Sheila Wellstone "Sheila Shawls". My cousin Irene and her sons were very comforted by the shawls. Their family has been at such a tragic loss without their daughter/sister. The stepfather felt very left out so I gave him my shawl. He went on to explain that all involved were very aware of the immediate family's loss and not one person asked how he is doing or maintaining through the tragedy. He made a very important impact statement at the trial and truly has been very upset. I felt he needed this shawl more than I. We are all very impressed with the craftsmanship of the shawls and the great comfort they bring. Please thank all that worked on these shawls and express what a great comfort they have brought at this time of extreme pain.
My shawl refers to Solbeig Halbakken, Fergus Falls, - please extend my extreme gratitude to her for the comfort of the shawl, and explain that I haven given it to the stepfather who is in great pain. This was my first experience directly with domestic violence and all the pain caused. I wish to God that there was a way to end ALL violence in the world, but especially towards women. When will it end. Again many, many thanks to all involved in this project. Keep up the special work you do. Betty B
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Note from a woman who donated money for the shawl project:
Thanks for your note. I came across your shawl project while researching prayer shawls on the internet. I am in the process of starting a prayer shawl ministry at our church with a group of women. As a child, I experienced the heartache and fear of domestic violence with a very abusive, alcoholic father. Fortunately, my mother was able to get away with her seven children. I hope my contribution can provide some help for comforting other women. Teresa M.
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Thank you from Minnesota:
Thank you for the beautiful shawl. The day I received the shawl, my
grandsons ages 10 & 11 (whom we finally got custody of after a year long battle) asked what it was for. I explained how to wear it or just to hold it when having a hard or bad day. They both started to argue over who was going to hold it that night. It definitely has a calming effect, they hold the shawl and sit or lay perfectly still. Maybe they feel their mothers love and affection coming through the softness of the shawl. Thank you again, Brenda J mother to Krista who was murdered by her husband March 24, 2002.
The Story of a DV Homicide Victim in Chicago: Cathy Bradley and her father Henry Woods Jr. were murdered in their home on April 24th, 2003 by her boyfriend. Southwest Women Working Together, a community-based women's organization where Cathy was an active participant for the past three years, honored Cathy at their annual Take Back the Night march and rally on May 1, 2003. Only a week after the tragic loss of her mother and grandfather, Cathy's daughter, Qianesha Vallot, together with her brother Jimi Bradley, spoke in front of over 250 community members at the rally about her great loss. Qianesha was very brave, and we are grateful and proud to have the opportunity to honor her and her aunt Jovan Woods each with beautiful shawls. We will remember Cathy and hold a place for her in our hearts always.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
In memory of a homicide victim in MN:
Nancy J was a 42-year-old Certified Nurse's Aid who devoted her life to taking care of the elderly. Her life was taken by the man she trusted to be her partner on October 1, 2001. His trial for her murder begins July 14, 2003. She is deeply missed and will never be forgotten." A Note from a SW activist in Missouri: Thank you for the wonderful newsletter every month. I always read them, even if it takes me a week or so to complete. This month's newsletter contains a story about a woman, Krista, from MN, who was murdered on March 24, 2002, by her husband. I was particularly struck by the fact that she leaves behind an identical twin sister, Karla. I, too, have an identical twin sister, and I cannot imagine losing her so tragically. Twins share a special bond with one another. Identical twins share a bond that seems almost like each is a part of the other's body and mind. Because of our similar backgrounds, I feel drawn to Karla, and I would like to knit her a scarf. Recently, I began knitting colorful scarves with the new, fun yarns that have just started showing up at the knit shops here in St. Louis. I have truly enjoyed creating something from scratch, which is a new venture for me. (I am a beginner 'knitter', so I cannot follow patterns or knit anything as large as a shawl, but I have learned to knit these colorful, fun scarves that you see everyone wearing lately.) From the beginning, I wanted to be able to knit the scarves well enough to give them away to individuals and organizations. It would be an honor to give my first donated scarf to Karla. May I ask you to help me arrange to send the scarf, upon completion, to her? Love, Sally K
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Follow up on the Twin mentioned above:
Hi again. I am in a twinless twins group and there are 2 people that I would love to have a shawl. I thought it would be some comfort to them like it has been for me. Yes one of the twins did lose their twin to domestic violence. The circumstance in this situation is different than mine. I will share with you what happened. Tina is who I talk to. Her twin sister was murdered by her husband. The husband shot and killed Terri (Tina's twin), their 6 yr old son, and himself. She has been great a help to me in understanding the feelings that I am going through right now. She has gone through them herself and I thought that a shawl would bring her much comfort like mine has given to me. Again I want to thank you and everyone who puts their hearts and love into these shawls. My twinless twins will love them.
I know for myself it gives me great comfort. I sleep with the shawl every single night. I truly appreciate all the time and effort all of you put into making these shawls.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Oklahoma gives Shawl at billboard opening: Karen Hill writes that they are planning to give a shawl to the grandmother of a DV homicide victim. The victims name was Jody Lynch, G'ma's name is Ruth. Jody was beaten and her abuser hit her so hard in the chest that her heart burst. She had 2 children who witnessed the incident. Thank you for this project. We will present the shawl to G'ma at our kick off for our DV bill boards project.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Note from an activist in Tacoma, following the death of Crystal Brame, wife of the chief of police: Crystal's God Mother has been speaking at local gatherings for the family. We as women and volunteers have been rallying for a change within the system of the city council with regard to a special reporting agency for women of officers and public officials. They need extra protection because of the stature of their mates. We are working diligently on what is called the Crystal Clear Act. Today we bury Crystal and speak out at the local park against DV with many organizations in support of changes. I am writing you today because of your offering of shawls for loved ones whom have lost a daughter, mother or relative from DV.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thank you from Montana:I wanted to tell you that the shawls and scarf are greatly appreciated. Jenn's 85 yr-old grandma immediately selected the sea green shawl, Jenn used to sing about "the sea of green" from the song Yellow Submarine while sitting in the trees of our yard. Although her arthritic fingers make grasping difficult, she holds the shawl and feels memories that are too painful to think about. The other shawl and scarf belong to a miraculous guardian angel of a friend who walked with me through months of grief-disabilitating days. She will feel comfort and hope from the shawl on chilly Montana evenings as she awaits the birth of her first child. And the hopes and dreams of the new mother and baby will be wrapped in thoughts of what wondrous gifts our children are. The shawls and scarf are tangible reminders of the love that my daughter, Jennifer O, made humbling to the proudest father in the world. I've created a memorial scholarship in my daughter's honor at her high school. Reading the hopes and optimism of the future that is written by applicants - soon-to-be graduates, has been difficult because they are the same hopes that were viciously stolen from my daughter through a selfish, cowardly act of domestic violence. I also wrote a song that gives a way for me to express my feelings, and it has been nice that Jenn's grandma has shared it with so many friends and that copies of the song on CD are going into so many hands. It is a way for me to help Jennifer live on in the hearts of so many who love and support each other in this little community. Thank you and all involved, for your work in the program. its too bad that such a support group even needs to exist, but thank God for the good people in the world. Norm O
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Thank you from RI: We received our shawl and quilt on Friday. They are both beautiful! Thank you so very much, for myself and Frankie. Frankie would like to send Augusta a little note, if that would be o.k. My birthday falls on Mother's day this year, so I consider my shawl the most wonderful gift I could possibly receive. Many, many, thanks to all involved. Robyn
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Frank B, Oregon
Frank lost his sister to DV
Hi Janet,
Thank you for your kind note and the prior SW emails. I enjoy being in the loop and on the road to more participation in the cause to stop domestic violence. The day after we met in Portland, there was a short article with my picture in the local paper. I am always amazed at how many people respond to me when I have been in the press, and how favorably they respond. It excites me to think that I can really make a difference, I know my sister is proud. I honesty can't wait to get going.
I would love a scarf! I haven't seen or heard of any in Portland yet. I think a red one would be appropriate for me, as it corresponds with the Silent Witness figures. Again, thank you for your kindness and thoughtfulness. I hope we meet again.
And when he received the scarf:
I received the scarf as you said, thank you!!! It brings me comfort for my loss and at the same time helps me feel a great resolve to work to stop domestic violence. As we talked earlier, I am excited to help in any way I can. I will be doing my research, gathering data, preparing talks, gathering ideas and will contact you for advice.
Please pass on my thanks for the scarf to its maker, Edrie Zweber, of Inver Grove Heights, Minnesota. "Ms. Zweber, you have given me a physical rememberance of my lost sister which I treasure and a symbol of my resolve to make a difference."
Pat Lupson and Warren Lupson: Maryland
Pat and Warren lost their daughter and two grandsons to DV
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