In 2010 my only sibling, Laura, was killed and lost to the high seas. She was crew aboard the sailing vessel Rule 62, bound for the British Virgin Islands. We never found her. She died in shark infested waters and this terror embedded my mind imagery. Her death overtook me because I lost my best partner of this life. She was always there for me. We shared wonderful belly laughter and knew each other's deepest flaws yet always loved and celebrated each other in milestones and accomplishments. I trusted her completely, valued her opinion, and felt at ease and safe with her. She was everything my husband should have been; all he was not.

 

Laura was a spunky gal. In 1982 while riding her motorcycle she had an accident and lost her dominant right arm. She made medical history when it was reattached as limb attachment was barely in the infancy stages of medicine at that time. Laura was handicapped, however she did not assume this label. Her stagnant arm never stopped her from anything and she exemplified an inspiring can-do, no matter what attitude.

 

Laura lived her life with a loving spirit and had a contagious laugh and smile. Her unrelenting tenacity led to her success as CEO and Founder of Advantage Computer Age Inc., an IT consulting firm. She was an outdoor enthusiast and gave of her time generously in service. Her mottos were “work hard and play hard,” and “follow your dreams.”  She was loved by many because of how she loved- she was a giver, and deeply cherished each person she knew closely. I was blessed to have this delightful and dynamic woman for forty-six years as my own sister and best friend. Her heart is my heart, in her IVHOPE and my 4 I'Ve HOPE. I dedicate this important trailblazing work in NPDV to Laura.

 

 

 

 

 

 

I honor Laura in my design of the cross-heart-anchor logo. The anchor is the symbol of hope, and I've combined it with a cross to acknowledge God as my infinite guide and protector. Above all else and more importantly, He was the power that led me to truth and out of domestic violence. When I finally began to rely on Him without reservation I was able to do all sorts of stuff I couldn't do before. I am thankful to Him every day for the mercy He bestowed upon me and my children. God always knew my true heart even in my worst moments. I pray that my raw transparency in 4 I'Ve HOPE will bring others to Him, and negate human pride that keeps the masses from speaking their personal truth of this broken world.