Prince Frederick, MD—On the night of Tuesday Oct. 17, a candlelight vigil was held at the Prince Frederick campus of the College of Southern Maryland to honor victims of domestic violence. In Maryland alone, there were 55 domestic violence related deaths from July 2015 to June 2016.

This was the ninth annual ceremony to honor domestic violence victims sponsored by the Calvert County Commission for Women and the Calvert County Health Department Crisis Intervention Center. The candlelight vigil, a somber, heartfelt event, took place in the outside courtyard. Darlene Hawkins-Praylow sang a song while those in participation wiped tears from their eyes.

At the conclusion of Hawkins-Praylow’s song, the candles were blown out and everyone gathered inside for the ceremony.

Adorned along the stairwell were t-shirts with messages against domestic abuse, and encouragement for survivors. In the ceremony hall, several speakers, including Calvert County Deputy State’s Attorney Kathryn A. Marsh and Sheriff Mike Evans, spoke on the devastating realities of domestic abuse. They brought up the fact that domestic abuse isn’t just broken bones and bruises, it is also psychological harm. Sheriff Evans stated that the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office gets about three calls a day on domestic abuse, and 50-75 percent of cases are witnessed by a child.

A survivor of domestic abuse came forward with her story. Among the traumatizing and sorrowful recollection of events was a woman who held onto hope, and escaped a life of fear and pain. The survivor described how people ask why those affected by abuse don’t just leave. “It’s not that easy,” she said through tears. The psychological trauma of abuse is real and it is daunting.

October is domestic violence awareness month, but all year we should be wary of those affected by domestic abuse. Not only is the person being hurt a victim, but also the friends, family, and loved ones of those involved. It is never too late to make a report. Regardless of how long you have been together, your living situation, or even how many kids you have, always strive to be safe and happy. If you aren’t, something needs to change.

If you have any questions or concerns, contact the Crisis Intervention Center at 410-535-5400.