Domestic violence survivor seeking benefit events to support program
Sally Loya is a survivor of domestic violence and sexual assault. She raises funds to recognize others who are also survivors. She plans to have a benefit concern in Sidney early this summer.
By News Channel NebraskaSIDNEY -- Sally Loya was interviewed for "The She Experience" in 2023.
The story talked about her journey from a EMT in Las Vegas to a survivor of domestic violence.
She is bringing her story and fundraising efforts to Cheyenne County.
Loya and Rita Ross met with the Cheyenne County Commissioners March 4 to seek use of the fairgrounds arena for a benefit concert.
"What we have is, in writing, a proposal for a benefit concert for The Loya Project to be held at the Cheyenne County Fairgrounds. We have local artist Sky Manor and various other groups, people, that are willing to come and perform a concert, and all of the proceeds fro the concert would go to The Loya Project," Ross said.
Ross suggested the concert be held during Gold Rush Days. She said they are also looking for food vendors to support the event.
Loya has launched programs including The Loya Project: Survivors of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault," "FreetobeTruetoyou," and "The Crown of Courage."
She and Ross said they plan to have a concert, possibly two, in the area this spring and summer in support of The Crown of Courage program. Crowns of Courage have been presented to survivors in the U.S. and representatives of the countries of Gambia, West Africa, Australia, Canada, United Kingdom and Mexico.
The Crown of Courage is a special recognition she has designed to encourage and empower survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault.
"In essence, my mission is to men, women and children whose lives have been infected by domestic violence and sexual assault, and who reclaimed their power and freedom," Loya said.
The commissioners approved the proposal as it is supported by The Doves, a non-profit organization.
She says early in her marriage, she recognized early signs of abuse, but like other women, she wanted her marriage to work, so she ignored the signs. She continued in the cycle of abuse for eight years with her husband's behavior escalating. She was separated from her family and friends. At one point, her husband took her on an 80-hour cross-country trip. During that time, he became physically abusive and started to strangle her. She played dead and believing she was, he left her at the scene and was arrested hours later. She tells people she made a deal with God that if he would deliver her, she would be an instrument for him, using her life as a testimony.