by Michelle McDaniel, CEO
It is with profound sadness that we mourn the passing of Cheryl Stumbo, a beloved former member of the Crisis Connections Board and someone I was proud to call a friend. Cheryl’s life was tragically marked by the 2006 shooting at the Jewish Federation of Greater Seattle, where she courageously survived being shot three times. Yet, through her pain and trauma, Cheryl emerged as an unwavering advocate for gun violence prevention and a champion for mental health support in our community.
Cheryl’s resilience and commitment to helping others were truly inspirational. As a board member of Crisis Connections, she lent her powerful voice and firsthand experience to ensure that those impacted by crisis and trauma had access to the resources and compassionate care they needed.
Beyond her work with Crisis Connections, Cheryl was a tireless activist, sharing her story to raise awareness and drive change. She testified before Congress, lobbied for stricter gun laws, and founded the nonprofit Moments That Survive to provide support and community for survivors of gun violence. Cheryl’s unwavering determination to create a safer, more just world in the face of unimaginable tragedy was a true testament to her strength of character.
Though Cheryl is no longer with us, her legacy lives on. The lives she touched, the causes she championed, and the difference she made in our community will continue to inspire us all. We are forever grateful for Cheryl’s service, her courage, and her enduring spirit. Her empathy, wisdom, and tireless efforts left an indelible mark on me, as well as many, many others.
May she rest in peace, knowing that her work has made the world a better place.