Jennie had an incredible spirit…

Dear Risk Hope,

Jennie had an incredible spirit, a magnificent smile and a beautiful singing voice. She was a caring, loving and generous person. In her short life and through her death she touched the lives of multitudes of people. Jennie was a daughter, sister, mother, niece, cousin and a friend to hundreds. She was always the light of our lives.

Let me advise you women who are presently in abusive situations. Ask for help. Do not be embarrassed. Do not allow someone else to break your spirit. It is not your fault. Abuse is nowhere near love. It is the opposite. It is sick. It is evil. It is deadly. Help is available.

Let me say to families and friends who suspect abuse to be aware and alert to the signs and take action. Mothers, if you have a gut instinct that something is wrong—it probably is. Call for help; get her out of the situation.

A mother is supposed to protect her children. I could not protect Jennie from the ultimate abuse of murder. I know she would want her life and death to make a difference by helping to save the lives of others in similar situations. We made a promise to Jennie that we would support and help one another in memory of her. My family truly believes that good will come out of this tragic event. Hopefully the brutal murder of the one we love so dearly will serve as a warning to others before it is too late.

These words from Martina McBride’s song “She’s a Butterfly” aptly describe my feelings about my precious daughter Jennie:

Like the purest light, in a darkened world
So much hope inside such a lovely girl
You should see her fly, it’s almost magical
It makes you wanna cry, she’s so beautiful.

Jennie, you have finished the race, you have kept the faith. Fly with the angels! We will never forget you.

Mom

Jennie Burton was murdered in May 2005 by her ex-husband.  She left behind two daughters, Isabella and Chelsea.  Chelsea is now a new mother herself, and named her daughter Jennifer, after her mother.

Visit http://www.RoseBrooks.org to see how you can support our mission.

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