“There comes a time when silence is betrayal.” - Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Thinking about this today and wondering what it means for the Silent Women’s Club.

“I don’t feel anymore. I feel like I’m incomplete.” Those are the words of Chantel Brooks, whose 4 year old son, Xavier, died of cardiac arrest due to complications of COVID-19 the day after Christmas. We understand how she feels. But we all wish we didn’t. This is not a hoax.

Kimora LeShee’ “Kimmie” Lynum was diagnosed with a urinary tract infection and 103 temperature when her mother, Mikasha Young-Holmes took her to the hospital. They were sent home. Six days later, when Kimmie failed to wake from her nap, the hospital tested her. Kimmie died having tested positive for COVID -19. It’s not a hoax.

The ER doctor told mom, Lastassija White, “She will be fine. It doesn’t affect kids.” She and Tagan were discharged and sent home. Tagan died 15 hours later. Little Tagan was not treated properly. Her parents tell their story “to bring light” to other parents. This is not a hoax.

More than 121 children have died from COVID-19. In September 2020, the Washington Post said child deaths are “remarkably low.” Tell that to the mothers who’ve lost their children. The mostly black and Hispanic mothers. Their stories are precious. We cannot remain Silent.

What I didn’t realize is what I’ve overcome. I had to read my story to see my story. 2020 sucks! This year is awful. But I am not. I was bruised. But not utterly broken this year. The same is true for you, Mum.

One in four women. One in four patients. That one is me. I am the one in four. I am the one.

I’m thankful. I may not feel it but I will it. Empty chairs won’t deter me this year. No matter what, for my dreams and my future, my Thanks Giving starts today.

There’s a still, small and subtle presence within me that gives me the strength to go on every day. Some days, it’s a voice. Other days it’s a feeling. A breath. An awareness up my spine that reminds me I can make it. I’m tapping into that today.

“Big girls don’t cry.” That’s a lie I learned as a little girl. Well, I’m a full grown woman now and sometimes, I cry.