Yvette Dione Cade

On October 10, 2005, Yvette Cade's ex-husband arrived at her work site, doused her with gasoline, and set her on fire. Cade suffered third-degree burns over 60 percent of her body. In the years that followed, she has endured multiple surgeries, and will continue to need surgeries to cope with the physical consequences of this horrific crime, likely for a lifetime. 

As if this courage wasn't enough, Cade also has become a powerful symbol of hope and survival, and a vocal advocate for domestic violence victims. She offers hope to battered women who are struggling to leave violent relationships; she offers advice and guidance on how to stay safe during and after leaving these relationships; and she offers herself as a survivor and positive example of someone who is making a difference in our world on behalf of all battered women. 

Cade and her family have used her personal tragedy to shed light on domestic violence nationwide, sending a strong message about the importance of family support in the wake of a violent tragedy. Her victimization resulted in significant changes in the judicial system in Maryland—as well as other states that followed Maryland's lead—regarding the enforcement of protection orders and the responsibility of courts to take the crime of domestic violence seriously. These protections will help to prevent further crimes like the tragedy that happened to Cade. 

In 2007, Cade was honored by the U.S. Congressional Victim's Rights Caucus for her leadership as a survivor who is dedicated to helping other victims of crime. Countless survivors and advocates have been directly touched by her story, her will to survive, and her willingness to support other victims of domestic violence. She is a survivor who is making a difference in our world. 

Yvette Cade was nominated by Anne K. Seymour, Consultant and Victim Advocate.