My name is Cory Redwine. I live in Colorado with my wonderful family. I have two beautiful children and an amazing wife. Every day, we learn to love each other a little bit more and live the life that we have made together. Unfortunately, my life has not always been like it is today. In 2012, my younger brother Dylan went to visit his father on a scheduled court-ordered visit for Thanksgiving. Dylan was 12 at the time, and I was 20. That was the last time I saw my brother. Nine years after Dylan’s disappearance, our father, Mark Redwine, was convicted of second-degree murder and child abuse in the death of my brother. Life has been a roller coaster for me and my mother. We spent many years searching for Dylan, and many years pursuing justice for him. The court process was long and arduous and brought up so many emotions for me. But it also made me realize that I am stronger than I thought I was, that my voice and words are powerful, and that my words and actions can not only help me but help others. It was amazing to see so many people of diverse backgrounds and in different fields come together for the sole purpose of helping Dylan. It puts your faith back in people at a time when you question people’s motives. And it helps you find a path forward in life. There is no doubt that this has been extremely hard and trying on me and my mother. The truth is that I am no different than other people—I am just going through hugely different things. You never get over this, but you will find that every day is a blessing and that you can find and make your own happiness.
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Cory’s Message of Hope
You are going through something that you never bargained for. There is no doubt that this is probably one of the worst things you can ever imagine happening to you. And as difficult and tiring as it is, you will get through and you will be stronger on the other side. Use your voice—it is your greatest tool. Tell others what you are feeling. You will feel empowered when you do. Ask for help. Say what is on your mind. And be hopeful, because if you lose hope, others will as well. Today, I work with adults who are facing difficult situations in their lives. I feel honored to work with them and know that my experience, as different as it may be to theirs, has given me the wisdom, strength, and insights to help them through challenging times and come out better on the other side as well. As difficult as it may seem right now, there are good things ahead for you. I learned that you must get up and keep moving forward because the world does not stop for you. I found happiness in the simple things in life and joy in knowing that the way we get better is together. And through all of this, I found my voice, a way to heal, become empowered, and see the goodness in the world. Find your happiness.