On August 4th, 2007, I was the victim of a horrible crime that has left me changed forever. I was attacked by a stalker at my home in Ft. Lauderdale by a man that I had considered to be just an acquaintance. He had plotted a horrible attack against me and pulled a gun to the back of my head. I spoke to him about God and told him that he needed to let me go. When I fled for my life he open fired and one of the bullets obliterated the T-12 section of my spine and paralyzed me. I landed in the gravel beside my driveway conscious as he ran over me with his SUV, and turned the tire while on top of my abdomen. He fled the scene and I desperately screamed for help, but no one came.  My neighbor’s phoned the police when they heard the shots fired, but they were too afraid to come to my aid. I was shocked to find that my attacker came back within minutes, grabbed me by the ankles, dragged me across the driveway to hide me behind the hedges, and left me there to die. I prayed for my life, and prayed to be saved, while waiting to be rescued. I survived by a miracle, by the grace of God, and I am so grateful.

Fortunately this dangerous man was apprehended the very next day. He pled guilty to Attempted Rape and Attempted Murder First Degree on Oct.2, 2009 and was sentenced to Life without the possibility of parole.

Now I have some closure and peace of mind to know that he’ll never get out, to hurt me or anyone else again.  The Doctors confirmed that the injuries to my spine are so severe that I’ll never walk again. Having spent over six months in hospitals and rehabilitation facilities, I am so grateful to be back in my own home. Everyday is very challenging, but sheer will, determination, and support helps to keep me pushing forward.

I try to remain positive despite my pain and disability, believing that everyday is a gift and life is a blessing. I want to make the most of my life and make a difference. I’m speaking at various groups locally and try to make a positive impact by giving motivational speeches and promoting awareness of disabilities. By sharing my story, experience, and perspective, I believe that I may inspire others along the way. I hope to help others to understand the importance of making the most of their lives, helping others as they can, and contribute something good to society.  I also offer hope and encouragement to other victims of violent crimes.

Living with paralysis is very difficult, but I manage by focusing on what is good in my life and all that I’m grateful for. I am thankful that my condition is not worse, and at least I’m able to use my upper body. I wish to keep active within my community and continue to be helpful to others where I am able. The costs associated with my injuries are quite high. These include medical treatments, medical equipment, rehabilitation, and home modifications. Unfortunately, I cannot afford all of these necessary changes. Would you please help?

To assist with my uninsured injury-related expenses, a fundraising campaign has been established with the Catastrophic Injury Program of the National Transplant Assistance Fund (NTAF). NTAF is a nonprofit organization that has been serving the transplant and catastrophic injury community for 25 years. All contributions are tax-deductible. Your consideration is greatly appreciated. If you wish to make a donation:

Make check payable to:                     NTAF Southeast Spinal Cord Injury Fund

Write on check memo line:                in honor of Christine Kent

Mail to:  NTAF

      150 N. Radnor Chester Road, Suite F-120U

      Radnor, PA 19087

To use a credit card, please visit www.catastrophicfund.org and type “Kent” into the yellow box on the left or call 800-642-8399.  My newspaper reports and videos can be viewed on this website.

Thank you for your prayers, support and donations.

ChristineKent@bellsouth.net