Child Abuse Awareness Month first began in 1983, but the blue ribbon symbolizing child abuse awareness did not appear until 1989. This is the story behind the blue ribbon. This is a story about Bonnie Finney, a woman who wanted to remember her grandchildren and all children who have suffered from abuse. Bonnie Finney is the one who inspired the blue ribbon child abuse awareness campaign.

Bonnie Finney was a grandmother from Virginia. Her daughter was in a relationship that was riddled with trouble and she suspected heavy drug use. Many times, she tried to help her daughter to leave the relationship, and even tried bringing her back home. As in the case of many unhealthy relationships, her daughter continually returned to live with her husband. Bonnie’s daughter had three children during her marriage. The children were 4 years, 3 years and 16 months old.

Michael was Bonnie’s grandson. He was taken from his home after he was admitted to the hospital with several bruises and cigarette burns on his body. He was placed in foster care for three weeks and was then returned home against his wishes. Bonnie never saw her grandson again.

Months later, Bonnie’s youngest granddaughter was admitted to the hospital. She had been severely beaten, her leg was broken in four places and her hand was badly burned. The authorities stepped in and it was then that it was discovered that Michael was missing.

The search for Michael began. Eventually, his little body was found wrapped in a sheet and stuffed into a toolbox. He had been killed three months earlier.

Bonnie made a statement: “My grandchildren had suffered and battled so much throughout their young lives that it sickened me. My life was turned into physical and mental chaos. My efforts ...