LEXINGTON, Ky. ( FOX 56 ) — Alisa Hairston lived every parent’s worst nightmare when her son Berkley was shot and killed on Aug. 22, 2021, just two weeks before his 18th birthday. Now, Alisa said she’s taking that pain and turning it into a purpose to keep her only child’s memory alive.
“When you lose a child, honestly, you can feel a child leave your body. And I can’t explain it. And I felt him leave my body,” said Hairston.
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Every day is a battle for Hairston, who said some days are harder than others.
“I may wake up… because he could cook exceptionally well, and I could smell things and I realize, oh, I’m just dreaming because it’s real. He’s not coming back.”
Even after his death, Berkley’s life continues in other ways. His mom started a non-profit called “It Really Does Matter,” which focused on reducing gun violence and creating safer communities.
She also holds a toy drive every Christmas that benefits children affected by gun violence.