John – 43 years ago today, a gunman pushed through a crowd of reporters in Washington, D.C., and aimed at President Ronald Reagan, firing six shots in less than two seconds.

The president survived, but Jim Brady, his press secretary, was shot point blank in the head. Miraculously, Jim survived. He was left paralyzed for the rest of his life, but this didn't mark the end of his story. After recovering, Jim dedicated the rest of his life to fighting for gun violence reform. This story of survival turned into advocacy isn’t unique to Jim – it’s the same path that brought me and so many others to Brady.  

When my mom was shot and killed opening the door to our home, I searched for a way to turn my grief into action. Eventually, I found Brady. Jim’s legacy of commitment to this movement permeates our work still. And we continue to be an organization led by and for survivors of gun violence. But this fight is far from over: 2023 was the deadliest year on record for mass shootings. With gun violence growing, it has never been more important to fight as hard as we ever have to end this epidemic.

For nearly a decade, Jim and his wife Sarah worked tirelessly to defeat the NRA, ultimately passing the Brady Background Checks bill and creating the system we use to this day — the very one Brady is fighting to expand now. We’re still up against the NRA’s reign of terror and the gun lobby’s bought-off politicians, but as Jim’s legacy has taught us, with commitment, hard work, and unity, we can win.

Jim never stopped fighting, and neither will I. And I know you won’t either, John. You’re one of our most dedicated gun violence prevention activists, and your support is essential to finally changing this country. That’s why I’m personally reaching out to you today: We've set a $25,000 goal to honor Jim Brady and recommit to his life's work on this crucial day of remembrance — and I'm counting on your donation to reach it. Will you give $5 or more before midnight tonight to honor Jim's legacy and help Brady pass common-sense gun violence reform, like an assault weapons ban?

Sometimes, the fight for change is long. But Jim showed us what dedication can do – how many lives we can save if we keep working every day. Thank you for embodying that spirit with your support today. 

Liz Dunning
Gun Violence Survivor and Chief Development and Engagement Officer, Brady