I Would Like You to Know My Name

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Amazing. Thanks for this, and be well.

MasMadness on August 10, 2011 at 9:56 AM

You are amazing. Thank you so much for sharing this.

teamcanada on August 10, 2011 at 9:57 AM

what an incredible contribution. thank you for sharing your story.

alithea on August 10, 2011 at 9:57 AM

I am so sorry for your loss. Peace and comfort to you and your loved ones. Thank you for sharing this.

mrs.america on August 10, 2011 at 10:10 AM

Wow. Thanks.

clint on August 10, 2011 at 10:18 AM

thanks for your grace and strength, for your continued healing and your reclamation of your life and purpose. stay strong. stay well.

reverend dr dj riz on August 10, 2011 at 10:34 AM

What can you even say? That was beautiful.

Cappelletti on August 10, 2011 at 10:35 AM

Thank you. This was amazing. I wish you kindness and strength on your path to peace, and am so very grateful for your honesty in sharing this.

Kumquat on August 10, 2011 at 10:37 AM

Such a wonderful, big heart. You are an inspiration. May you be happy and whole. Know that we all remember Teresa with you, with love. Thank you for teaching us about strength, honor, love, life, and how they can triumph over darkness.

DianeSEA on August 10, 2011 at 10:52 AM

Thank you.

sikandro on August 10, 2011 at 10:55 AM

We've never met, but I have thought of you every week -- sometimes every day -- since that horrific night in South Park.

Without even knowing you, I think of you as a friend. And, as such, I say: thank you, Jen. You are beautiful, Jen.

Sending you thoughts of hope, and peace, and strength, and condolence.

kerri harrop on August 10, 2011 at 11:04 AM

Thank you for your strength, Jennifer Hopper.

suddenlyorcas on August 10, 2011 at 11:28 AM

I wish you continued strength. Thank you for sharing this with us.

planned barrenhood on August 10, 2011 at 11:34 AM

Jennifer. I think of you and Teresa often. I wish with all my heart and soul that I didn't have to, that July 19th never happened.

Peace be with you, sister.

Laura

Womyn2me on August 10, 2011 at 11:44 AM

Thank you so much for this. By sharing your story so candidly, you have had such a positive impact on more people than you will ever possibly know.
Thank you for your strength, I wish you every happiness in the world.

hd on August 10, 2011 at 12:03 PM

Thank you for writing this. I am so sorry for the incredible pain you have endured. I wish peace and hope for you and all who have gone through this with you.

karion on August 10, 2011 at 12:05 PM

Jennifer, I'm so proud of you. You have served our city extremely well by telling the truth. You did so last fall when you stood up and defended the victim advocate program, too. You are a strong, courageous woman.

CouncilmanTim on August 10, 2011 at 12:06 PM

Thank you for writing this. I wish you peace.

Katherine on August 10, 2011 at 12:13 PM

jennifer: tears of sadness, gratitude, hope, and blessings, being shed for you, for myself, and for the others who know this horror. thank you for sharing your voice with us.

gracey on August 10, 2011 at 12:14 PM

"We gain strength, and courage, and confidence by each experience in which we really stop to look fear in the face." -- Eleanor Roosevelt

victoriastar on August 10, 2011 at 12:16 PM

Nice to see the Stanger advertise prositution on the same page of a rape victim. And they have the nerve to attact the Seattle Weekly

steelcoyot on August 10, 2011 at 12:27 PM

Thank you, thank you so much. Every young girl and woman should read your story so if (and too likely, when) something happens to them, they can draw upon your bravery and strength.

-Still Nameless

on August 10, 2011 at 12:31 PM

Thank you for writing this piece, Jennifer. Like many others, I don't know you but have thought of you and admired you and wished the best for you. It's great to hear from you directly, in your voice. I wish you happiness and fulfillment as you continue your journey.

on August 10, 2011 at 12:43 PM

6 on August 10, 2011 at 12:49 PM

Thank you for honoring us with your story and name. All the very best to you, Jen!

uhhnananana on August 10, 2011 at 1:08 PM

I wish you peace.

I would be remiss however, to not question one of the statements in this piece.

You say, "I'll never understand what made you (the murderer) capable of such cruelty". Yet, he WAS capable of such acts. What's wrong with asking HOW? For every reaction there is an action. In other words, there ARE reasons why this individual found himself in that specific place in that specific frame of mind. Some of them may not be pleasant, politically correct or socially acceptable but what's certain is that somewhere, somehow this man fell off the rails and you can be sure he didn't get there without a healthy dose of neglect, belligerence, ignorance or do-goodism entirely out of his doing.

on August 10, 2011 at 1:18 PM

Jennifer -- I too am a survivor (Jewish Federation shooting of July, '08). Your story rings like a pure series of belltones; I feel like you read my own mind as you wrote. Funny the heroes we share: Diane Priest, my advocate; Seattle police detectives Dana Duffy and Dave Duty, my truth seekers. They are truly wonderful people, aren't they?!

Cheryl

uujew? on August 10, 2011 at 1:42 PM

In my mind you and Teresa are heroes. The fact that you are just like the rest of us, yet found the strength to go on is an incredible inspiration. If you can go through something like this and continue, there is nothing the rest of us can't overcome too. You are an amazing, incredible person. I wish my words could do something to give back what was taken from you. I hope at least there is some comfort knowing that you are loved and admired by the community.

hifiandrew on August 10, 2011 at 2:10 PM

xoxo

laceyswain on August 10, 2011 at 2:33 PM

Now that I have wiped my tears, I wish for you PEACE. I have followed your and Teresa's story with pain and now with a smile.

Tracy

Peanuts on August 10, 2011 at 2:49 PM

Thank you, Jennifer. I will never forget this.

aimistrue on August 10, 2011 at 2:49 PM

I am glad to know your name because now I'll never forget it. I don't know you, but I'm a survivor, too, and I draw such strength from your -- and Teresa's -- courage. You ARE the bravest woman in Seattle, and possibly the world. Thank you for showing us who you are. Interest in this crime and its consequences will never fade for me. I am palpably relieved that he is behind bars, and I will never forget. But I am so happy and proud that you are moving on. I don't know how it's possible that you are so strong and so free of vengeance (*I* wanted him put to death, and he wasn't my attacker), but I salute you, because if that's possible, anything is possible. You are amazing. May your road be easier from now on. I know it is easier for many other survivors because you told the truth, the whole truth and then your name. You're an inspiration and so many people who have never met you love you, including me.

Ramona Quimby on August 10, 2011 at 2:57 PM

Thank you. I too have thought about you many times since hearing about this horrific ordeal and I hope for the best for you. Your strength and courage are an inspiration.

DevoutAtheist on August 10, 2011 at 2:59 PM

"If one woman were to tell the truth about her life, the whole world would split open."
-- Muriel Rukheyser

Ramona Quimby on August 10, 2011 at 3:08 PM

Dear Jeniffer:
My hero, my peace, my hope! I don't have words to express how grateful I am for everything you have done for us! Yes! we need more people like you, with courage and strenght. I admire you and respect you for ever. Sorry for the lost of your Teresa, but thanks to her I finally found my peace and I am sure for others as well. Many warm hugs! Pilar

on August 10, 2011 at 3:09 PM

The humanity of your thoughts shakes me to my core! Thank you for sharing & I wish you continued hope, healing and peace.

tntxo on August 10, 2011 at 3:11 PM

Following your painful, beautiful, heartfelt words, mine own will seem so unsubstantial. So I will only say, thank you, and may happiness find you from this day forward.

Looking For a Better Read on August 10, 2011 at 3:12 PM

The humanity of your thoughts shook me to my core! Thank you for sharing, I wish you continued hope, healing and peace Jennifer.

tntxo on August 10, 2011 at 3:14 PM

Amazing. Writing this piece reinforced that you probably are the bravest woman in Seattle. It's an honor to meet you Jennifer.

on August 10, 2011 at 3:15 PM

There is no better definition of grace than you.

jfr2ls on August 10, 2011 at 3:21 PM

I'm sorry for your loss.

Acupunk on August 10, 2011 at 3:24 PM

I wish you peace, and I think Eli well named you The Bravest Woman in Seattle. You do honor to Teresa's name, and bring hope and strength to survivors of violence every day with your example.

I have often wondered, since reading the first accounts of the attack, how I would cope with something so nearly unimaginable. Few would show the courage and grace that you have done.

Peace.

Geni on August 10, 2011 at 3:34 PM

You *are* amazing, Jennifer. Best to you.

Nutsy on August 10, 2011 at 3:49 PM

There are no other words than thank you.

analemma on August 10, 2011 at 3:51 PM

Thank you for your words, and bless you on your lifelong journey. I, too, think of you often, and can only hope during the harder times all of these collective thoughts can buoy your spirit in some way.

seattlemuse on August 10, 2011 at 3:53 PM

Thank you for, yet again, being brave... brave enough to share this with us. I wish you the very best that life can offer you, after having to endure the worst that can be endured. Thank you.

science chick on August 10, 2011 at 3:56 PM

Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts. I'm horrified by what you had to face, but amazed and inspired by your strength. Thank you, thank you.

redhead on August 10, 2011 at 3:57 PM

Thank you for sharing. I think about you and Teresa often and send you positive energy, peace and blessings.

nordman61 on August 10, 2011 at 4:26 PM

Jennifer: as a sleep guardian I recommend a dog. Perhaps an Irish Wolfhound. Or a large Golden Retriever. Seriously.

justadummynameforregistration on August 10, 2011 at 4:34 PM

Thank you for sharing your story. Thank you, thank you, thank you. I wish you peace and love always.

clumbergirl on August 10, 2011 at 4:37 PM

Jennifer,

Words seem so inadequate, but I want to thank you for sharing your thoughts. I have never met you but have thought of you so many times over the past two years and wondered how you are doing. I've also wondered how I would find the strength to survive something as horrific as what you experienced. You may not think you're special or amazing, but you really are. Your grace and courage have been an inspiration to countless people, including myself.
Yes, media interest may fade after the sentencing, but I will not forget you, or Teresa. It made me smile to read that you have a new girlfriend and are moving forward. You are an incredible woman, Jennifer. I wish you peace and love and joy on your journey.

Compass Rose on August 10, 2011 at 4:37 PM

Jen-

I'm Donna. It's nice to meet you. Welcome back to your identity.

You are important. You went thru the fire for Theresa and did not shy away. Well done.

I wish you peace and healing.

I'm sorry for your unspeakable loss, and the terrible toll the justice system took on you.

Peace- Donna

Josie H on August 10, 2011 at 4:47 PM

Thank you, Jennifer, for allowing those of us who have followed this story, to hear your voice. Because of your reflections and honesty, you are helping victims of sexual violence and abuse. I honor your bravery and candor. Be well and know there are many out here that hold a little piece of you and Teresa in our hearts.

kerala on August 10, 2011 at 4:58 PM

Thank you, Jen. You. Are. Amazing. Like many of the commenters I have been thinking of you and worrying for you and wishing for you that this had never happened and admiring your strength as you put one foot in front of the other after enduring what I feel sure I never could. Thank you so much for the note, you're even braver and stronger than I thought.

toomanyguitars on August 10, 2011 at 4:59 PM

Wow. I'm moved and inspired. Thank you so much for sharing. I wish you peace and every happiness.

procupcake on August 10, 2011 at 5:02 PM

Thank you for sharing, you give hope and enlightenment for those who also struggle with survival. Positive energy exudes from your words and that is a wonderful gift you are giving to readers. Thank you.

on August 10, 2011 at 5:04 PM

Jen-

I'm Josie. It's nice to meet you. Welcome back to your identity.

You are important. You went thru the fire for Theresa and did not shy away. Well done.

I wish you peace and healing.

I'm sorry for your unspeakable loss, and the terrible toll the justice system took on you.

Peace.

Josie H on August 10, 2011 at 5:07 PM

We've never met, but I have thought of you every week -- sometimes every day -- since that horrific night in South Park. You see I lived less than 3 blocks away and my window was also open that night.

Your strength and grace is truely inspiring.

Thank you for sharing your story with us. Peace be with you my friend.

auctionannie on August 10, 2011 at 5:11 PM

Jen,
We've never met, but I have thought of you every week -- sometimes every day -- since that horrific night in South Park. You see I lived less than 3 blocks away and that night my window was unlocked too!

Your strength and grace is inspiring. Thank you for sharing your story.

Sending you thoughts of peace, ease and happiness.

auctionannie on August 10, 2011 at 5:24 PM

Jennifer, you really are the bravest woman in Seattle. I wish you peace and healing. I will never forget you or Teresa.

the miller test on August 10, 2011 at 5:28 PM

Our true character is what we show, when the worse befalls us. You're an amazing woman, Jennifer Hopper. All the best to you.

johnyawl on August 10, 2011 at 5:28 PM

'I have a beautiful and brave new girlfriend.' She fails to mention that she and her new girlfriend have been together for 2 years now.

on August 10, 2011 at 5:44 PM

May you seek out and find as many small and large happinesses as you can. You will need them. The horror you have survived will never leave you, but I hope and pray that you will find peace. You are righteous, and Seattle loves you.

Fnarf on August 10, 2011 at 6:11 PM

Jennifer, thank you for the courage to write this and the courage you showed in testifying. Your hope is inspirational, and I wish you the very best.

Kaliann on August 10, 2011 at 6:16 PM

Thank you for sharing your story, Jen. I wish you peace.

surfergirl on August 10, 2011 at 6:19 PM

Thank you for sharing your painful story and your amazing journey! You write beautifully and it touched my heart and soul.

jacio on August 10, 2011 at 6:21 PM

Exactly what Fnarf said. Thank you so very much.

Lo on August 10, 2011 at 6:36 PM

Out of one of the most horrific, brutal stories I've ever heard about in the place I call home, comes such an amazing story of survival, grace, strength, wisdom, love and peace. Jennifer - thank you so much for sharing your name and voice and story. The entire community is here for you.

ikahana on August 10, 2011 at 7:18 PM

I wish you peace.

on August 10, 2011 at 7:23 PM

Honesty is courage. Thank you, Jennifer Hopper. May you dwell in peace.

Thel on August 10, 2011 at 7:26 PM

This is, perhaps one of the most powerful and poignant articles I have read in years.

Thank you for your courage, honesty, inflection and most importantly your willingness to share this experience.

It is truly humbling...

on August 10, 2011 at 7:32 PM

Jennifer.

It's all been said here, but not yet from me. Thank you for writing this. Go forward and live the rest of your life to its fullest.

Peace and Love,

~John

Johnston on August 10, 2011 at 7:39 PM

Thank you for giving us the gift of your powerful voice Jen. Seattle is lucky to count you amongst us.
You are a remarkably strong writer. I hope you continue with it.

Dedalus on August 10, 2011 at 7:41 PM

Thank you so much for sharing your story, I am so incredibly touched by what you shared. I can relate to so much of what you wrote, especially about so suddenly being thrust into a new life after such a horrible trauma. I see so much bravery and courage in you, I thought that all through the news coverage of the trial. I wish you the best and will keep you in my heart.

donna_r on August 10, 2011 at 7:43 PM

Jennifer- my heart aches for you and for the loss you and your loved ones have endured. You are empowering not only yourself but countless others in sharing your journey to find peace. Thank you.

on August 10, 2011 at 7:54 PM

Jennifer,

Your courage is admirable, I wish more people had your character and sensibilities. The world would be much better off if it were so. I hope your healing continues and you regain some peace in your world.

on August 10, 2011 at 7:57 PM

Thank you for this. I appreciate your honesty and bravery very much.

bklyn on August 10, 2011 at 8:03 PM

Words can't express the profound love and sorrow I felt while reading this. I am in awe of your courage.

on August 10, 2011 at 8:03 PM

Thank you! Courage spawns courage: your gift will echo through all sorts of situations you could hardly expect, people thinking of you and what you've said here, and deciding to be braver in their own lives (as I have because of you).

on August 10, 2011 at 8:05 PM

You say your grandmother is the strongest woman you know, but undoubtedly she has passed along the gift of her strength to you. May you find peace and strength to continue good work in Teresa's name. Many blessings.

on August 10, 2011 at 8:15 PM

Wow, even though she will deny it, what a special woman. I don't know what she does for a living but she should consider being a writer, this was the best written article if have heard in a long time. I am so sorry that she had to write about such a terrible event. Anyone would be proud and very lucky to have a friend like her.

on August 10, 2011 at 8:26 PM

I can't add anything to your words, nor would I try to. I have seen horrible things as a police officer, but I don't know that I've seen someone face the shattered life that is left as you have. I'm glad you have angels in your life. I hope and pray that the rest of your life remains peaceful and as loving as you obviously are. Be well.

KendallCougs on August 10, 2011 at 8:33 PM

Your courage is an inspiration to everybody.

Roberto63 on August 10, 2011 at 8:35 PM

Jen~ I am so very proud of you. Your grandma was right "You are going to be okay"! You've shown amazing strength and courage , I am proud to know you.

momma*T* on August 10, 2011 at 8:47 PM

That you wrote this story shows your strength. That you wrote this story so beautifully shows your grace. May a sense of peace follow you on your journey.

PennyForYourThoughts on August 10, 2011 at 8:49 PM

First, Jen you are brave. Brave to get up each day and put one foot in front of another. The definition of brave is to do something even though you fear it. Also, if I may be so bold, when you have the chance to speak to that man directly you may want to think about what that act will do for you. You get to say what you need to...don't worry about what he does with the information or if it will change his thoughts. That is not the important part. The important part is that you do it for you. I wish you peace and happiness...your friend (we've only met a few times at Fight The Fear but I consider you a freind)/ex-neighbor. Morgan from South Park.

Morgan Watson on August 10, 2011 at 8:59 PM

Dear Jen,

There isn't a day that has gone by without Robert and I thinking about you and Teresa. It is hard to look next door and not remember the way things used to be. The beautiful Dahlias in the drive way and the happy sounds of laughter coming from the back yard. I am so incredibly proud of you and so happy to hear you are making the most of your 2nd chance. We miss seeing you. I hope we can reconnect soon.

It is weird that the sentencing falls on the same day that the house is up for auction in Bellevue. I so wish I had the money to purchase it and turn it into the transitional housing for families in need that you had thought up. We love you and hope to see you again.

xo Jane

callingindead on August 10, 2011 at 9:04 PM

My heart hurts for your loss and rages at the same time for your strength and courage. No words can express what I, a perfect stranger, feel inside after following the trial, the story and your account. All I can say is you're not alone. Stay strong.

silentinsinseattle on August 10, 2011 at 9:07 PM

What courage and bravery in the face of such vulnerability. Peace to you and in your life forever. You've earned it!

beth64 on August 10, 2011 at 9:22 PM

Good job, Jennifer.

Phil M on August 10, 2011 at 9:30 PM

Insert every positive emotion possible, Jennifer, into this comment.

frentic on August 10, 2011 at 9:31 PM

Thank you.

on August 10, 2011 at 9:34 PM

Jennifer-
We do not know each other but I have thought of you so often for the past two years, wishing you strength and healing along the way. This article is incredibly moving, your readiness to share your name and your experience is astounding. As others have said, there are few words to express what I've felt for you, the horror you lived through, the love you and Teresa had and your strength to honor that love. My heart goes out to you. You have not been alone. Thank you for letting us in. I wish you and your new love the joy and home you deserve.

Zed on August 10, 2011 at 9:37 PM

Jen. I love you and admire you more than I can say with mere words. I am so happy you are finding life and love again. I hope your new sweetie understands her important role in all of this and how much we love her too, for making you whole again. You will always live in my heart through your courage, bravery and YOUR heart. Peace to you.

Katie xxxx

ladybelle on August 10, 2011 at 9:38 PM

Your words astound me and give me hope. We do not know each other but I have thought of you and Teresa often since that terrible day. Thank you for sharing your story with us. Your brave and beautiful spirit shines through your words. I wish you peace and love on the rest of your journey. You are amazing.

clumbergirl on August 10, 2011 at 10:01 PM

Jennifer Hopper. I am so glad to know your name. We don't know each other but I have thought of you and Teresa countless times in the last 2 years. I diligently followed the progression of the case against Kalebu and the trial. It seemed like the only way to bear witness and send you the courage to continue. I cried every time I read an article, including your own today. What moves me most deeply is your compassion for Denise Kalebu, and your loving gratitude for all those who supported you. You deserve every kindness in the world. You honor Teresa and her love for you--your love for each other--with such beauty and strength. I wish you all the peace there is, in your new life and your new love.

Zed on August 10, 2011 at 10:08 PM

Thank you. This is truly inspiring.

Matt from Denver on August 10, 2011 at 10:19 PM

Your bravery and compassion is incredibly inspiring, and I wish you years and years of peace. I don't know you, but your writing tells me, it tells us all that you can do this. I'm so deeply sorry for what happened to you and your partner, and the families surrounding all of this. It's so heartening to hear that writing this has helped, that you've had people around you supporting you and helping you. I'm grateful to you for writing this, thank you.

Hollie on August 10, 2011 at 10:50 PM

100

Your bravery and compassion is incredibly inspiring, and I wish you years and years of peace. I don't know you, but your writing tells me - it tells us all - that you can do this. I'm so deeply sorry for what happened to you and your partner, and the families surrounding this tragedy. It's so heartening to hear that writing this has helped, that you've had people around you supporting you and being there for you. I'm grateful to you for sharing this, thank you.

Hollie on August 10, 2011 at 10:53 PM

101

No other words, beyond thank you for your bravery. You are a hero.

fourfingersdown on August 10, 2011 at 11:09 PM

I Would Like You to Know My Name

How My Life Changed After That Night in South Park

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