Domestic violence survivor hopes sharing her story helps others

Summary

Katie Gilbert survived a brutal attack by the father of her child, who shot her with a shotgun, leaving her with severe facial injuries and lifelong medical challenges. After escaping an abusive relationship and enduring multiple surgeries, she remains resilient and optimistic, sharing her story to empower others in similar situations. Katie emphasizes the importance of seeking help early and credits organizations like Wellspring for support. Her attacker was convicted and sentenced to 25 years in prison. Despite the physical and emotional scars, Katie's courage and determination to reclaim her life provide hope and guidance for survivors of domestic violence.

Takeaways

• 😀 Katie Gilbert survived a near-fatal domestic violence attack by the father of her child, Steven Lario.
• 😀 She moved to Saratoga County in 2016 to escape her abusive partner and protect her children.
• 😀 Katie initially let Steven back into her life after seeing him attempt recovery, but he relapsed.
• 😀 In April 2018, Steven shot Katie in the head with a double-barrel shotgun after a confrontation over money.
• 😀 Steven was convicted of attempted murder and sentenced to 25 years in prison.
• 😀 Katie lost part of her face and one eye and has faced numerous medical challenges, including unsuccessful reconstructive surgeries.
• 😀 She remains resilient, maintaining optimism, wit, and determination not to let the attack define her.
• 😀 Katie shares her story to help others in abusive relationships recognize early warning signs and seek help.
• 😀 Wellspring, a nonprofit organization, provides confidential support, a 24/7 crisis hotline, and safe phones for victims.
• 😀 Katie emphasizes the importance of reaching out for help even when not in immediate danger and encourages survivors to take pride in their resilience.
• 😀 Despite ongoing medical challenges, Katie continues to pursue treatment options, including potential eye socket reconstruction through NYU’s face transplant program.

Q & A

Who is Katie Gilbert and what happened to her?

Katie Gilbert is a woman from Saratoga County who survived a violent attack by the father of one of her children, Steven Lario. In April 2018, Lario shot her in the head with a shotgun, causing severe facial trauma and the loss of an eye.

Why did Katie Gilbert move to Saratoga County in 2016?

She moved to Saratoga County to escape her abusive partner, Steven Lario, along with her children, seeking safety and a fresh start.

How did Steven Lario find Katie after she moved away?

Although Katie had relocated, Lario eventually tracked her down. She initially refused him access until more than a year later when she believed he was recovering from addiction and was seeking help.

What led to the violent attack in April 2018?

The attack occurred after Lario discovered emergency money Katie had been saving. During a confrontation, he punched her, knocking her out, and then shot her in the side of her head with a double-barrel shotgun.

What legal consequences did Steven Lario face for his actions?

Steven Lario was convicted of attempted murder in 2019 and sentenced to 25 years in state prison.

What medical challenges has Katie faced since the attack?

Katie has undergone multiple surgeries attempting to reconstruct her eye socket using her own tissue. Scar tissue and infections have made reconstruction difficult, and she is on a waiting list for NYU's face transplant program.

How has the attack affected Katie’s daily life?

Katie experiences frequent stares in public, struggles with physical and medical setbacks, and is reminded of her trauma every time she looks in the mirror. Despite this, she maintains optimism and uses humor to cope.

Why is Katie sharing her story publicly?

Katie shares her story to help others in abusive relationships realize they can seek help and leave before situations escalate. She wants her experience to inspire resilience and awareness.

What support resources are available for victims of domestic violence, according to the transcript?

Wellspring provides a 24/7 confidential crisis hotline [phone]), emergency phones for safe communication, and ongoing guidance even when there is no immediate crisis. They help victims plan a safe escape and start over.

What advice does Katie offer to others in abusive relationships?

Katie advises victims to seek help early, walk away before the situation escalates, and view leaving as a chance for a fresh start. She emphasizes that survival and pride in overcoming abuse cannot be taken away.

What role did sarcasm and wit play in Katie’s recovery?

Katie uses sarcasm and wit as coping mechanisms to maintain her positive attitude despite the trauma and medical challenges she faces.

Has Katie’s attacker had any contact with her since the conviction?

No, Steven Lario is serving his 25-year sentence and is not allowed to have contact with Katie.