{ for a good cause }
WALKING THE WALK by CHERYL L. KATES-BENMAN
Lucila Matos was featured previously in Rochester Woman Online. She is an author. She is an evangelist and she is a survivor of domestic violence. Lucila sponsored the 6th Annual Walk Against Domestic Violence. Cheryl L. Kates- Benman RWO editor took part as one of the spokespersons on behalf of the walk. Lucila, herself was a victim and fought her way back from the bottom of the barrel. She now prides herself on extending her hand to others to assist pulling them out of the darkness. Lucila’s husband who is a pastor stands beside her in her quest to assist others. Pastor Eddie Matos shares, “I wanted to take part in this campaign because it’s so easy to forget the many women who live their lives in fear because of domestic violence. Men have an important role to play sending out the message that real men do not hurt or abuse their partners”. He is a great support to Lucila in her work at the church and on the campaign against domestic violence. He stands right next to Lucila every step of the way. He showed her what love was all over again and restored her view real men exist and that it is possible to be in a loving, healthy relationship. Lucila planned the 6th annual Domestic Violence Walk which was held in Rochester, NY at Maplewood Garden on Lake and Driving 214
ROCHESTER WOMAN ONLINE :: september 2017
Park this past August. This was a faith-based event and prayer was offered during the rally. One of the defining moments was watching a woman burst out into tears in the audience while the rally was getting everyone who attended hyped up to walk. The compassion and support in the crowd was amazing. People offered hugs of support and prayer to console the woman.
Many people joined Cheryl and Lucila in supporting this event. Among friends of Rochester Woman Online were: Jobie King, consultant, Stephanie Viriyakul, super model, Cynthia Andresen; dancer, Christy Dunster, Mrs. American Dream 2017; and Latiffany Anderson, Kurvie Kulture. Jobie King shares his experience walking the walk: and say, “To be walking in solidarity to raise awareness for a national issue such as domestic violence was an honor and a privilege. To be in conversation with so many strong, compassionate and intelligent people in this community was truly breathtaking. When I’m back in Rochester, it’s truly empowering to see those, who make it a truly remarkable city. I am grateful to all of those I met and that supported the walk. I greatly look forward to participating again next year!” Christy Dunster (Mrs. American Dream, 2017) shares her experience walking the Domestic Violence Walk by saying, “It was so wonderful to walk and support so many women who had the strength to be in a situation and get up and leave! It was very powerful and moving!” Cynthia Andresen, choreographer and dancer expressed the empowering feeling participating gave her.