Today we’d like to introduce you to Cortlyn Bridges.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
December 1, 2020, marked the day my life changed forever, and the dynamics of my family were altered in ways I never could have imagined. My 28-year-old daughter was tragically murdered, and my 23-year-old daughter had to witness the horror. At the same time, she nearly lost her own identity, but by God’s grace, she was saved.
In the midst of my anger and pain, I knew I couldn’t stay stuck in that place. I realized my hurt had already caused so much damage, and it was time to help others avoid losing focus in the same way. That’s when I decided to start a foundation in honor of my daughter. I became involved with several organizations in Los Angeles, where I met incredible people who taught me so much. They welcomed me as though we had known each other for years, standing by my side during court dates and allowing me to participate in various community events. I kept pushing forward, speaking out, and asking anyone who might have information about my daughter’s murder to come forward.
One day, I was asked to speak about the then District Attorney of Los Angeles, George Gascón, and from that moment, I became known as the mother who spoke out against him. But my advocacy wasn’t just for my own children; it was for all children who need a voice. I wanted to speak for the voiceless, to fight for justice, and to ensure that no one else had to endure what my family had gone through.
During this journey, I met the amazing Terry C. Carney Sr., who invited me to be featured in his upcoming documentary, Put The Guns Down, set to release on May 7, 2025, on platforms like Peacock, Amazon Prime, Google TV, and Apple TV.
As I continued speaking about forgiveness and my daughter’s story, I shared how my faith has been my strength. My foundation focuses on raising awareness for families affected by violent crime, especially gun violence. We believe that mental health support is crucial, and if children receive the help they need while they are young, they are less likely to turn to the streets in search of what’s missing. We are a village, and we will continue to emphasize the importance of peace and forgiveness.
My foundation’s mission is to meet families where they are, without judgment, offering resources, and encouraging a relationship with God. Faith is what sustains us, even when we can’t see the way forward, trusting that God’s hand is upon us. Our guiding principles are faith, hope, and love.
You can look good on the outside, but if the inside isn’t okay, a change is necessary.
My daughter Kamryn and my two grandchildren Kylee and King which are my late daughters two amazing children.
Blessed to have written my first book titled ” Joy Always Gets the Last Laugh”.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Grief, having to do 3 impact statements, having to trust God even when no one kids charge in your child’s murder. Living with the guilt of not being able to say GOODBYE or feeling like I didn’t do enough.
Having to tell your at the time in 2020 your 8 year old granddaughter her Mommy is in heaven and she is never coming back.
As you know, we’re big fans of Ky Alicia Thomas Foundation Keeping Away . For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
Non-Profit Organization/ Author
We believe in meeting you where you are and linkages to other community resources.
We’d love to hear about how you think about risk taking?
I took the risk of being vulnerable and always willing to open up about my journey of healing and how I got here. It’s been challenging especially when you have not been the best communicator and said things that may have hurt others in the process. When my daughter was murdered I blamed everyone but the problem was in the process God was trying to get me to see he was still God even in my pain my purpose was birthed. I became more sensitive to how I respond to certain things places, things. I’m learning life can be cut so short and to cherish today and let God worry about my tomorrow’s. Forgiveness is real and I know this because have Forgiveness but not for them but for me. Even with a not guilty verdict I still believe God has a plan and he has worked it out for my good.
Pricing:
- 25.00
- JOY ALWAYS GETS THE LAST LAUGH
- www.kyaliciathomasfoundation.org
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.kyaliciathomasfoundation.org
- Instagram: Keepingawaytrauma
- Facebook: Cortlyn Bridges
Image Credits
Cortlyn Bridges
