And we welcome special guest speaker

 Carolyn Thomas

http://www.carolyn-thomas.org

Before                        After

My name is Carolyn Thomas and this is my story.

 I was born in Midland, Texas, on July 26, 1970. Raised by my grandmother and mother. I grew up in a strong, faith environment and attended church on a regular basis. During high school I participated and excelled in track and drama.

I grew up carefree and enjoyed spending time with my friends and mom. After graduation from Midland High School, I moved to Waco, Texas. I attended a local community college. I later decided to explore the workforce in Waco and worked various jobs.

In 1995, I met the man who would change my life forever. Throughout our eight year relationship, I was caged from the outside world. I experienced helplessness, powerlessness, isolation, control, manipulations, fear, intimidation, and loss of self by an abusive partner on various levels. The abusive relationship progressed to a lethal plateau over time.

On December 5, 2003, I suffered catastrophic facial injuries when my abuser shot me at point-blank range. I was not expected to live. By God's hand I survived. I had 11 reconstructive surgeries at Methodist Hospital in Houston, Texas over a two year period. While recovering I discovered my purpose, to tell my story to all willing to listen.

 Carolyn's miraculous, powerful, and inspirational story has touched so many that various media outlets have been attracted to her and continues to be attracted to her story. Carolyn has change so many lives and provided hope to thousands-not just victims/survivors of domestic violence, which she is not even aware of.

People all over the United States, Europe, and the West Indies have been impacted by her story and choice to share the intimate details of her life with strangers.