Remembrances

We hold space for the stories of those who have lived through trauma, some who have found their way toward healing, and others who are still carrying its weight. Each story reflects the complexity of pain and the many paths people take in response to it. Some have discovered moments of peace, connection, and restoration. Others continue to struggle, often quietly and without support.

In remembering them, we are reminded why this work matters. Their experiences call us to create spaces where healing is possible, where suffering is not hidden, and where no one has to face their journey alone.

Renard Mason

The doctors gave him 6 years and instead he fought and lived 33. He used all of the 33 years he had graduating college, learning languages, and starting a business in Columbia. He was a SURVIVOR.

Sylvia Mason

Gary Fernandez

I was not aware that Gary was having feelings of committing suicide, they say the quiet ones are the ones to watch. The night it happened was terrible, I tried to talk him out of it, with no success. The pain of grief was overwhelming. Still to this day I think what could I have done to change the situation. I had to learn to be strong, I had a child to raise and take care of. Always tell your loved ones how important they are to you. There was no time for grief, we had to survive. Always love unconditionally.