COPS Walk 2012 Walking for Wes

In July 2007 my world as I knew it was completely shattered. All of our hopes and dreams were gone in an instant. Wes and I always had the mentality, it would never happen to us.

That Saturday was just like every other Saturday. Wes got up and got ready for work and the girls and I were off to spend the day with my bestfriend who was in from Colorado. Wes kissed and hugged us goodbye and I told him to be careful and we would see him that evening. I never imagined that would be the last time I saw his face and kissed him goodbye. My best friend, my soul mate was gone and the girls would never get to grow up having the father that adored them watch them ride horses or take dance classes or play sports.

One year after Wes was killed we traveled to Washington,D.C. where they honored our loved ones during National Police Week on the Capitol Lawn. It was there I was introduced to an amazing organization that not only honors our Heroes but they honor us. We are the Living Memorials and the reason why they do what they do. C.O.P.S. (Concerns of Police Survivors) offered counseling sessions and seminars to not only spouses but to all family members who were affected by the loss. I made some amazing friends that week and I continue to have those relationships with those girls. In 2010 I attended my first Spouses Getaway and it was just what I needed. A weekend to help me with life and issues that I was dealing with and bond with some women who were sharing the same struggles. In 2011 the girls were finally old enough to attend COPS Kids Camp. I am so glad we were able to go. My girls finally realized and felt somewhat normal knowing they weren't the only children who had lost their dad at such a young age. Every year I continue to look forward to NPW and Spouses and my girls have assured me that we will go back to camp every summer. I hope that you will consider helping me as I Thank COPS for what they have done for me, Cora & Caitlyn but also for all the Surviving Families that they help.

God Bless