The Murder of My Daughter
The murder of one of our daughters, Kaitlyn Marie Sudberry, on January 28, 2008 at the age of 17, was and has been our inspiration for actively doing out part in breaking the cycle of abuse. One day in April 2008, my sister Lorie, daughter Yvonne and I were visiting when I went into to somewhat of a day dream or trance if you may. My sister asked me what I was thinking and I said to her, “we need to do something so this does not happen to anyone else.” My sister and daughter totally agreed and right then and there we kept stepping forward and never looked back. We discussed our idea with my husband, friends and other family members and chose to form a non profit tax exempt corporation, Kaity’s Way, with a mission to put an end to teen dating violence and promote the importance of healthy relationships. The ideas just kept coming and we came up with several different approaches in an effort to accomplish this mission.
We tell Kaity’s Story to any individual, group or organization that requests to hear it in an effort to bring awareness to Teen Dating Violence. We believe that hearing Kaity’s Story can benefit teenagers and pre-teens as well as anyone that has a teenager or pre-teen in their life. The presentation also includes information about Kaity’s Law, the pattern of abuse, certain warning signs, how to safely exit an abusive relationship, what bystanders can do and we conclude with the elements of a healthy relationships.
We have created and maintain a website, www.kaitysway.org. The website includes the information in the brochure, but also goes into more detail for the victim as well as someone that would like to help a victim or suspected victim. There is a current events page that also keeps people in the know as far as what events are taking place.
In addition, we attend and set up a resource table at various community events to provide free literature and information regarding Teen Dating Violence and the importance of Healthy Relationships. We also send out a monthly newsletter, Kaity’s Korner.
There is no charge for any service we provide. Although, if we are asked to speak outside the state of Arizona, we do ask that travel and lodging accommodations are provided if necessary. Otherwise, we operate solely on public donations.
On a personal level I worked with Senator Paton and the AZCADV to pass Kaity’s Law, September 30, 2009. Whereby, those in dating relationships are now protected under the Domestic Violence statue 13-3601. I also testified before the Senate committee this last legislative session to pass into law SB 1308 which requires every school district in Arizona to hold a board meeting to discuss and consider the adoption of policy and an educational curriculum regarding Dating Abuse by June 30, 2011.
We sincerely hope that through Kaity’s Way, our personal efforts and the efforts of organizations that have similar missions someday we will have a generation of young people that understand what a truly healthy relationship is and realize the value of equality in a relationship. Thereby creating and promoting a more peaceful environment for all. Cycle broken!
Bobbi Sudberry, Co-founder/Executive Director, Kaity’s Way
P: 602 740 2734
Website: www.kaitysway.org