MEMPHIS,Tenn. — October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month and one local organization is helping to spread awareness with its annual 5K.
The Taffi. T. Crawford Domestic Violence Foundation bears the name of a Memphis nurse who was shot and killed by an ex-boyfriend ten years ago.
“Taffi was the life of the party, she was so sweet, everybody loved her,” Taffi’s friend Evette Porter said.
“She had the biggest smile that you would ever see anywhere.”
The two met at Mississippi State University, but ten years ago Taffi’s life was cut short.
The Memphis nurse’s ex-boyfriend shot and killed her in the parking lot of Delta medical Center on her way to work.
“Taffi’s story was different than the typical domestic violence story,” Porter explained.
“She was very independent, and she was very strong willed, and she knew what she wanted," she told FOX13. "The guy she dated; he just wouldn’t let go. He actually abused her that one time and left, and he stalked her and then eventually he took her life.”
A jury convicted former Memphis Firefighter Frank Graham of first-degree murder and sentenced him to life in prison.
Taffi’s death motivated her close friends and family to start the Taffi T. Crawford Domestic Violence Foundation.
For a decade, the group has helped other victims of domestic violence.
“We wanted to do something more so no one else, no kid would lose another parent, best friend wouldn’t lose a best friend, and a sister wouldn’t lose another sister," she said.
The foundation will hold its 10th Annual Taffi T. Crawford Domestic Violence 5K later this month.
“This year unfortunately due to COVID we’re going to have to do it virtually,” Porter said.
“It’s October 24th through the 31st. You can do it any day. You can run, walk or bike, any day during those days.”
Porter said it’s important to keep Taffi’s name alive.
“We want Taffi to be proud of us,” Porter said.
“I know she’s in heaven and she’s saying that’s my girl. Keep saying my name and keep helping people in my name.”
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