JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The teen survivor of an attempted murder-suicide stabbing attack outside a Ponte Vedra restaurant in July delivered the first pitch at the UNF softball game Sunday afternoon to raise awareness for domestic violence.
Madison Schemitz, who survived the brutal stabbing outside Mr. Chubby’s by who police said was her boyfriend Spencer Pearson, attended the UNF softball game against UCF to highlight the One Love Foundation.
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The goal of the national nonprofit, named for University of Virginia student Yeardley Love, is to end relationship abuse by empowering young people with the tools and resources they need to spot the signs of healthy and unhealthy relationships.
Schemitz was stabbed over 12 times and was left paralyzed from the chest down after the attack. During Sunday’s game, Schemitz was able to stand up from her wheelchair to throw the first pitch.
“We’re super grateful that she’s out here today, and that we’re able to learn from her and honor victims who have been impacted by that as well,” UCF pitcher Angelina said.
Sharon Love, mother of Yeardley Love and founder of One Love was also present at the event Sunday.
“We’re trying to create a community of One Love people that all look out for one another,” Sharon said.
Sharon said her daughter’s ex-boyfriend beat her to death just two weeks before her graduation from the University of Virginia in 2010.
“As we unite, we hope we’ll have a huge impact,” Sharon said.
The man who saved Schemitz’ life, Kennedy Armstrong, was also at the game standing by Schemitz side.
Schemitz also brought a chapter of One Love to her school to highlight domestic violence awareness.
“Every day is still a fight. I am working incredibly hard every day and making great progress. I continue to ask for privacy when it comes to my recovery, but I greatly appreciate all the thoughts and prayers,” Schemitz said in a statement on Sept. 28.
If you want to learn more about One Love Foundation visit www.joinonelove.org/