Walk a Mile for Awareness of Domestic Violence

Antelope Valley Medical Center welcomes men and women to strut their stuff in bright red pumps at the fifth annual “Walk a Mile in Her Shoes” on Saturday, Oct. 27 from 8-11 a.m. at the hospital’s Community Resource Center, 44151 15th Street West in Lancaster.

Men slip on a pair of red high-heeled shoes in order to raise awareness about the impact of domestic violence in our community. A $65 registration for men includes the shoes and a t-shirt. Women may join the fun for $20, which includes a t-shirt and refreshments. Register online at walkamileav2018.eventbrite.com. For more information email walkamileav@gmail.com.

“Domestic abuse is one of the primary types of violence we treat and provide services for at the forensic services unit,” said unit director Bridgett Amis. “This event joins big feet with big hearts and brings the community together for a great cause.”

Antelope Valley Medical Center’s Forensic Services Unit is a unique community benefit program that helps patients reporting sexual assault, child abuse, elder abuse/neglect, domestic violence, trauma and suspicious injuries. Last year the FSU responded to 2,123 cases in the Antelope Valley, including 1,099 cases of trauma or suspicious injury, 241 cases of domestic violence and 154 cases of sexual assault. The FSU team of specially trained registered nurses collaborates with law enforcement agencies, the district attorney’s office and community advocates such as Valley Oasis to ensure justice and the healing of a victim. The FSU is designated by the County of Los Angeles as a SART (Sexual Assault Response Team) Center of Excellence.

The hospital is presenting the event with the help of the Antelope Valley chapter of Zonta International, a leading global organization of professionals empowering women worldwide through service and advocacy. Zonta International strives to promote and protect the human rights of all women and girls and reduce incidents of violence against them.