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Me and Rozeta celebrated just months before she was murdered.
Dear RiskHope,
Strong, opinionated, straight-forward, and independent are a few words that I use to describe my big sister, Rozeta Birch-Jones. She played such an active role in my upbringing; she was at every birthday party, graduation. She was the person who taught me to love unconditionally, no matter how much someone hurt me.
I can’t remember the last thing I said to her or the last time I saw her, but I will never forget how I felt when I got the phone call on Sunday, October 10, 2008. He had killed her. My sister was gone.
At her memorial, I handed out purple ribbons for everyone to wear in recognition of victims of domestic violence, in recognition of my sister. From that day on, I vowed to not stand by and allow another family to endure the pain that my family had. I have since used every opportunity I have had to bring awareness and support victims of domestic violence.
On March 9, 2010, I turned 30. I celebrated “Three Decades of ME!” in Kansas City with family and friends. But my circle of loved ones wasn’t complete; Rozeta wasn’t there to celebrate with me. I decided to use the celebration of my life to recognize her life that ended so tragically. I started Ribbons for Rozeta in honor of my sister. All the guests at my party wore domestic violence ribbons and were asked to make a donation to Rose Brooks Center in her honor. I plan to make Ribbons for Rozeta an annual event, and in the meantime, will continue raising awareness for this serious cause.
I will always remember my sister’s strength and determination, and it’s those memories that will keep me strong and be the driving force behind my efforts.
Neosho Ponder
To learn more about Rose Brooks Center and how you can support our mission visit http://www.RoseBrooks.org
