To the editor:
I write this letter with a heavy sadness.
This past week, our community lost a bright, beautiful and inspiring light to exceptionally tragic circumstances. Many, including me, lost a dear friend upon the passing of Vesna Dumstrey-Soos.
Since she was discovered in her home on Norman Road, a man has been charged with first degree murder. I truly hope that Vesna’s alleged assailant will not go unpunished and will get every ounce of justice our system can provide.
First degree murder is a robbery. We have been robbed of a friend, a support, a beautiful bright light without any justification. Vesna’s alleged murderer robbed us all.
Other than speaking to the shock, grief and unconsolable sadness that many are feeling, I am also writing to share my personal grief.
I was Vesna’s friend. I run the 100 Mile House & District Women’s Centre Society where we support women in every way we can from donations – food, emergency shelter, safety planning, counselling, legal aid and other resources. Yet, even though we were personally connected and even though I run the Women’s Centre – I did not know Vesna was at risk. This saddens me more than anything.
If I had known, maybe Vesna would not be gone.
I wish I could lift the suffocating fog of silence victims live in; relieve victims of the shame abuse causes; and convince the world that the passing of precious loved ones to violence is more than just a headline. Victims are people, flesh and blood.
Vesna did not deserve what happened to her. Vesna was so much more than a news story. Vesna should not be gone.
I feel I remember Vesna in a way that would have made her smile, a bright inspiring light. Yet, I sadly realize thinking of her passing will also remind me there are likely other women in our community and beyond who may be facing danger in silence, not knowing what to do or how severe that danger may be.
Please help me relieve my grief by knowing I am here. I am here for you.
Sonja Ramsay
108 Mile Ranch