Woman paralyzed in Montgomery shooting talks about violence and mental health

MONTGOMERY, Ala. (W.S.F.A) – Gun violence is a public health crisis in America, according to the U.S. Surgeon General and health officials across the country. Earlier this year, health officials said published a report pushing for stricter gun laws and more research.

Victoria Floyd knows how serious the gun violence crisis is in America. In December 2020, she was shot in Montgomery while out with some friends. She was an innocent bystander when a bullet changed her life.

“All I remember is that the bullet went through the wall and I fell straight to the ground. I couldn’t feel anything. I was immediately paralyzed. Immediately,” she said.

Victoria was paralyzed from the waist down, which changed her life forever. Years later, the physical scars and the wheelchair are all visible reminders of what happened on the outside. What you don’t see are the mental consequences.

“How am I supposed to make my children believe that I am okay, that their mother is strong and that I can make it?” she asked.

According to statistics from a U.S. Surgeon General’s Advisory, shootings have a mental impact on survivors and their family members. The report found that the family members of gun violence survivors are at greater risk for mental health issues, including anxiety, mood disorders and more.

Allena Burbage is a therapist at the Samaritan Counseling Centerspecialized in children and adolescents. She says even if the child has not suffered any physical harm, there is still trauma from gun violence.

“That’s called vicarious traumatization or secondary trauma, which means that direct trauma doesn’t have to happen for you to experience the fear and stress that comes with exposure to trauma,” Burbage said.

In these cases, she says children often worry about their family members and the future. Hearing and reading about shootings and gun violence on the news and on social media can reinforce these feelings.

Whether direct or indirect victims of gun violence, Burbage recommends that victims and their families consult a therapist.

“I encourage people to talk to their children, educate them and give them opportunities to express themselves,” she said.

Victoria has been open with her children about her struggles and her achievements. Years later, she now wants to go back to work, buy a wheelchair-accessible car and show her children that you can rise above violence.

“They have really been my backbone in showing me how strong I can be,” she said.

If you’d like to support Victoria’s journey, she has a GoFundMe.

Not reading this story in the WSFA News app? Receive news alerts FASTER and FREE in the Apple App Store and the Google Play Store!