Shot by husband, woman now helps domestic violence victims

PASCO COUNTY, Fla. - Margo Brandon dedicates most of her time volunteering with the Pasco County Sheriff's Office.  That includes escorting McGruff the crime dog to school visits.

"I work at just about any place they need help. They holler. I go," said Brandon.

She says it's satisfying to help, but she also feels obligated to do it because the Sheriff's Office was there for her when she needed them most.

"They were at my house within three minutes of my gunshot wound," said Brandon.

It happened in September of 2006. Margo says her husband of nearly ten years was a domineering man who verbally and physically abused her.

But on that night, she says he pulled out a gun.

"I'll never forget his eyes or I'll never forget hearing the automatic coming off of safety and then the filling of the chamber with the first bullet and the puff thereafter," said Brandon.

Margo says the bullet went through her arm and into her side. She was in the hospital for weeks. Her husband was sentenced to 9 years in prison.

Now along with her volunteer work, she tries to help others escape domestic violence. She tells victims that help is available. 

She says the Sheriff's Office and Salvation Army got her through.

These days, she's back to her old self.

"I was very extroverted, very outgoing, and when I was married to him I was quiet.  Hardly said three words.  Wasn't me, like I am now," said Brandon.

Margo and many others will be on the steps of the Sheriff's Office for a candlelight vigil Thursday night at 7 pm. They want to raise awareness, and honor and remember victims of domestic violence.