OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR)— “II just miss her so much. And me giving is how I cope with her being gone.”
Shysheka Plunkett, who goes by Shy, was talking about her beloved daughter Lashabra, who was killed in a case of domestic violence.
Shy is now an advocate for domestic violence victims.
On her daughter’s birthday she takes her food truck, Soul City Tacos, and offers free food to the folks at Palomar in Oklahoma City.
Palomar is a family justice center where victims of domestic violence and their families can get specialized care. It’s a way for Shy to honor her beloved daughter.
Tara Currin is a survivor of domestic violence herself after being shot 8 times by an estranged boyfriend.
Tara volunteers at Palomar.
That’s where she met Shy, heard her story, became a friend, and watched Shy’s giving spirit at work and not just at Palomar.
Tara nominated Shy for Pay it Forward award.
When receiving the $400 that comes with the Pay It Forward recognition, First Fidelity Bank’s Laura Franklin told the nominator, “Tara, we are so excited to present you with 400 dollars. To give back is to pay it forward to somebody else. Thank you so much, Tara, for your love and light. At First Fidelity that’s right along with what we believe in.”
Then it was time to surprise Shy.
KFOR went to her food truck, where she was getting all the ingredients ready for a day of serving tasty tacos to customers.
Tara told Shy “I met you. We came together as strangers. But I knew what you were going through. And from that day we reached out, and we keep reaching out. And I see how giving you are. And you’re continuing your daughter’s legacy by giving back to the community. And even when you told me you met another mother who suffered the same thing as you. And even in the midst of your pain, you’re still reaching out, and I just love you.”
When Tara gave Shy the $400 dollars, Shy toldher, “I’mm not gonna stop.”
Shy went on to say, “Just because you have lost a daughter or a son doesn’t mean they are lost forever. They are going to be with you. Just like Lashabra is still with me.”
Two friends, despite tragedy and loss, stilll know the value of Paying It Forward.
