When Amedy Dewey’s mother was killed in a vicious act of domestic violence, her stepfather shot her in the face, shattering her world at the age of 18. Dewey, now 25, is regaining what many people take for granted—her first actual mouthful of food—after having 37 surgeries over the course of seven years.
Amedy and her mother were picked up from the airport by Amedy’s stepfather on a chilly winter day in Michigan in 2018. He pulled over, pulled out a gun, and opened fire, shooting Amedy first, then her mother, before turning the gun on himself. What started as a car fight turned into a nightmare. Despite all odds, Amedy managed to survive.
She had a tiny chance of surviving the severe injuries, according to the doctors. Her upper jaw, teeth, and roof of her mouth were all broken by the bullet that passed through her shoulder and face. She struggled, though. Through years of surgeries, disappointments, and grueling recuperations, she persisted in her fight.
Her most recent procedure, performed in November 2024, was revolutionary: using bone from her fibula, surgeons restored her upper jaw and gave her new teeth at last. She was able to chew for the first time in seven years.
“I started with a grilled cheese,” she adds. I just started dancing after taking a meal and glancing at my dad. The world seemed to be on top of me.
Later, she enjoyed a bacon burger, which she had previously been able to have in little portions. I’m able to bite through meals now. It feels amazing.
Amedy has discovered a new purpose as a result of her recuperation. In an effort to help others spot warning signs that she wishes she had noticed sooner, she has turned into an advocate for gun safety and domestic abuse awareness. When I was fifteen, he had threatened to shoot my dog. She claims that there were numerous signs. I want people to be aware of when they are not in a safe place and to leave.
She is currently pursuing a degree in order to work as a trauma therapist. I felt like I was only doing surgery after operation for a long period. She says, “Now I’m using my voice to help others.” I will continue to reopen these wounds for individuals if they can find strength in me.
It has not been an easy journey. Amedy remembers the suffering, loneliness, and periods of uncertainty clearly. However, she also recalls the close bond she still has with her mother. On certain occasions, I have sensed her guiding me. I’ve felt her warmth and heard her say, “You’ll be okay, baby,” when I was at my lowest. I am aware that my mother is by my side.
She is now anticipating the day when she will have a prosthetic eye. “This is not the end of the journey,” she says. However, I’m still alive, recovering, and at last capable of experiencing life to the fullest.
