I became a member of War Cry 4 Peace because I can personally relate to families who have lost a child, sister, brother, mother, or father. Thirty-five years ago, I was in the same place where many of you are today. On May 2nd, 1990, I lost my oldest sister to gun violence—and I remember that day as if it were yesterday. But the pain didn’t stop there. That same night, I also lost my mother and father—not physically, but emotionally and mentally. Grief hit our family so hard that it changed everything.

I understand the trauma, the childhood memory blockouts, and the struggle of trying to adjust to life without my sister. In the midst of the pain, I found God—but I was afraid. As I grew older and began to truly know Him, things slowly became easier.

Being a part of War Cry 4 Peace has been a powerful source of encouragement and support. It reminds me that I’m not alone, and that there are people praying for me, standing in the gap, and walking this journey with me. Learning how to deal with grief is crucial—but finding and believing in God is life-changing. Healing takes time, and seeking help through counseling and support is so important.

Today, I stand stronger than ever—not because life has been easy, but because God has kept me. In the past few months, I faced another battle: cancer. But God! He gave me strength, peace, and healing. Because of Him, I’m still standing—and now I stand for others in their time of grief, just as He stood for me.

With that being said, I am truly honored to be a part of War Cry 4 Peace.

You need a place where it’s ok to cry or say “I’m not ok” and not be judged or looked at funny and War Cry 4 Peace is the place. It’s a place where you don’t hurt alone.

They offer more than just a candle light visual…They love on you. They pray for you. They treat you as family! They are there during and even after the loss of your loved one! They check on you through out year and even on holidays.

I would definitely recommend War Cry 4 Peace across the nation! I believe this organization will help millions one day.

Losing my baby brother, John Marcus Weeks, to a senseless act of gun violence shattered my world. He was full of life, love, and joy—his smile lit up every room. Like all of us, he had his flaws, but no one deserves to have their life stolen in such a violent way.

The pain of losing a sibling is deep and unique. Marcus and I shared an unbreakable bond. He was supposed to be here for my wedding, to meet my children—but instead, I’m left with memories and a space no one else can fill. Watching his sons grow without him is a daily reminder of all we lost. They have his spirit, but they’ll never truly know his love and guidance.

Through War Cry for Peace, I found healing and connection. It’s given me a way to honor Marcus’s life and stand beside others who know this grief. Writing has also helped me process the pain—especially a poem I wrote titled “God, Why?” which gave voice to my anger, heartbreak, and unanswered questions.

These last two years have been filled with sorrow and strength. Losing Marcus changed me. It taught me how precious life is, and it’s made me more intentional in how I love and live. While the ache never fully fades, I’m determined to find purpose in his death and to fight for a world free from gun violence.

I also want to honor Mrs. Kimberly Wilkerson—her strength and compassion are unmatched. Her leadership through War Cry for Peace has been a lifeline to so many of us. She pours her heart into this work, offering real support, prayer, and love to grieving families. She’s a rare gift, and I’m so thankful for her presence in my life.

My prayer is that God continues to bless this organization and expand its reach. Because of people like Mrs. Kimberly, we know we’re not alone—and that, in itself, is a miracle.