CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Many in the community remember 15-year-old Tiffany Wright, who was shot and killed while waiting for a school bus. The bullet also claimed the life of her baby girl, who was delivered, dying just days later.
"She lost her life to gun violence," said Susan Barber, Tiffany's foster mom. "She had goals. She wanted to be an attorney, she's definitely missed."
The incident happened back in 2009, but Barber said the old wounds still feel brand new.
"It never goes away and I think about her every day," said Barber. "During the holidays especially it's really hard."
Barber was one of many grieving moms at the holiday dinner on Thursday that was put together by the Mothers of Murdered Offspring, an organization Barber says no mom wants to join.
"It's not an organization that you want to be a part of because of the pain," said Barber.
She says some days are better than others, and that’s why she makes it her duty to come to events like this and stand with others who are hurting.
"It's always helpful when you can share your story with someone else who is going through this journey," said Barber. "I come because I want to help someone else who is going through this same journey, even though I've been in it for a while, it’s the same as if it happened yesterday."
Along with Barber’s, the room was filled with shattered hearts, the loudest quiet ever.
"You feel their hurt," said Barber.
As every mom lit their candle, they held it close in memory of their loved ones who are gone but connected by heartstrings to infinity.
Contact Tradesha Woodard at twoodard1@wcnc.com and follow her on Facebook, X and Instagram.