CBS Channel 4 interview: 'Oakland Park Woman Summons Strength After Tragedy'

On August 4th, 2007, I was the victim of a horrible crime that left me changed forever. I was attacked by a stalker at my home in Ft. Lauderdale by a man who was just an acquaintance. He 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 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'm grateful.

Fortunately this dangerous man was apprehended the next day. He pled guilty to Attempted Rape and Attempted Murder First Degree 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 my spinal injuries are so severe that I’ll never walk again. After spending six months in hospitals and rehabilitation facilities, I feel so blessed to be back in my own home. Everyday is very challenging, but sheer will, determination, and support helps to keep me pushing forward.

The Spinal Cord Injury Support Group, at HealthSouth in Sunrise, has been great by offering encouragement, helping me with adjusting, problem solving, and goal setting. I try to remain positive despite my pain and disability, believing that everyday is a gift and life is a blessing. Since attending these groups I’ve been able to be helpful and encouraging to others as well. I’m becoming more involved with various activities for the disabled, and also Handcycling which is now my most favorite. I’ve completed six full 26 mile marathons! I feel a sense of accomplishment and my family and friends are all so proud of me. I'm struggling with severe pain, but I won't give up and I won't let it take my spirit.

I want to make the most of my life, be an inspiration to others, and make a difference. By sharing my story, experience, and perspective, I believe that I may help others along the way. I give motivational speeches at various groups locally and try to have a positive impact through encouragement and promoting awareness of disability. One of the groups I speak to is the youth at risk in the “Community Justice Program” through the Oakland Park Police Department. My goal is to help them to understand the importance of making the most of their lives, helping others along their way, and contributing something good to society. I was also a guest speaker for the annual “Women in Distress” meeting. I strive to offer encouragement to other victims as well and to whomever may need it.

Living with paralysis is difficult, but I focus on what is good in my life and all that I’m grateful for, and it lifts my spirits. Support from the Community makes such a difference in my day to day living and continues to help keep my faith strong. Everything helps as I'm unable to work again due to the pain.

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). Contributions are tax-deductible. Your consideration is greatly appreciated. If you wish to make a donation:

Make check payable to: HelpHopeLive
Write on check memo line: in honor of Christine Kent
Mail to: HelpHopeLive 
            150 N. Radnor Chester Road, Suite F-120
             Radnor, PA 19087

To use a credit card, please Contribute Now or call 800-642-8399.

My newspaper reports and videos can also be viewed on this website.