In Memory of Chris Keith

Chris Keith was a mom of four, a homeschooler, and a Zumba instructor in Lansing, Michigan. She blogged at Adventures of a Thrifty Mama about living thrifty and growing her own food. 

Chris could have been the mom living next door to me or you.

She was also the victim of an abusive husband, and last week her husband shot and killed her and her 14-year-old son Isaac before killing himself. 

The sad thing is that the fact that she was a victim of domestic violence doesn’t necessarily distinguish her from me, or you, or the mom next door. According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, one in four women is a victim of domestic violence in their lifetime. One in FOUR.

And when women are victims of domestic violence so are their children. Sometimes the abuse is directed toward the children as well, but just witnessing domestic violence can make it more likely that they will be involved in a domestic violence situation in the future either as a victim or abuser.

Chris’s 14-year-old son lost his life, and her other children – ages 4, 6, and 8 – are now orphaned. A memorial fund has been established and will help to provide for the surviving three children.

Whether you are able to donate to the memorial fund or not, I’m asking that you all do a few things in memory of Chris Keith, Isaac, and all the victims and survivors of domestic violence:

• Be aware that domestic violence affects women (& men) of every race, religion, education level, and income level.
• If you know a victim of domestic violence, be supportive. Listen and remind them that they do not deserve the treatment they are receiving. Do not blame them and remember that you can not make decisions for them.
• Learn to recognize the signs of domestic violence and familiarize yourself with the cycle of violence.

And most importantly:

• If you are a victim of domestic violence, or if you ever wonder even a little bit if you are in an abusive relationship, seek help. Call the National Domestic Violence Helpline – 800-799-SAFE (7233) – anytime, 24 hours a day, to speak to someone, or contact Safe Horizon – 800-621-HOPE (4673) – for assistance in finding safe shelter.