PATCH VOICES: Honor Patrick Cotrona's Memory by Catching His Killer

by Kate Cotrona Krumm

Listening to Bulletproof, wishing my brother truly had been. 

I had intended to post something yesterday on the six-month anniversary of Patrick's death. But I couldn't do it: I couldn't talk to the East Atlanta Patch, I couldn't post to FB; all I wanted to do was curl up in my bed and sleep, and so I did. But I woke up at 11:00 — the time that he had died while riding in the back of an ambulance, racing across the city.

Some of you knew Patrick really well, some a little, and others not at all. I thought I knew a lot about him — I certainly knew how special he was. But, there were some things about Patrick that I didn't know until after he was gone. One of the most special gifts I received was when my dad found a game Patrick was making for me. It was intended for my 30th birthday but had still been in the works. The game was the game of MY life, and when I read all the pieces, I knew without any doubt, my brother loved me; I hope he knew how much I love him. 

Six months have passed since he was murdered in East Atlanta, and the police are not any closer to finding those responsible. My family has been discussing ways to raise funds: 5K, auction, music concert, and so on. All of these events will take time and money, and by the time they come to fruition, we will be that much further from the truth and the time (and people's memories). So, now what? 

I've been in touch with Clear Channel, and they are offering us advertising space for cost. Gregory and I will be working on the artwork and getting the space secured around Atlanta and DeKalb county — we MUST get the attention of individuals who actually KNOW something and would be willing to come forward. Even at cost, though, it's expensive. 

I know it's the holidays, and there are a lot of people you're all thinking of right now, and I know that money is tight, but PLEASE consider donating for Patrick Cotrona's justice.http://www.gofundme.com/3zr6no