In loving memory of Michaela Garecht and her cherished mother, Sharon Murch.

Since the tragic events of 1989, the memory of Michaela and the unwavering strength of Sharon have left an indelible mark on my heart. Michaela, a dear schoolmate, was taken from us far too soon, and although her physical presence is no longer with us, her spirit continues to inspire countless lives.

The perpetrator of this heinous act, whose name shall not grace these pages, serves as a stark reminder of the darkness that can infiltrate our world. Yet, amidst such profound sorrow, it is the resilience and grace of Sharon that shines brightest in my memory. Her enduring spirit and tireless advocacy have fueled my own journey, guiding my path in ways I could have never imagined.

Childhood trauma has a profound effect, shaping the course of our lives in ways we may not fully comprehend until much later. It was through the lens of this shared experience that I found my calling in cyber security—a realm where I could stand as a guardian, shielding others from the perils that once haunted my thoughts.

It was Sharon who opened my eyes to the harrowing possibility that her daughter may have fallen victim to the cruel realities of human trafficking. Her words resonated deeply within me, sparking a profound awareness of the vulnerabilities that exist within our communities. This revelation propelled me back into the halls of academia, driven by a newfound determination to confront the scourge of exploitation and trafficking head-on. Sharon’s guidance, her unwavering resolve, became the cornerstone of my journey, inspiring me to delve deeper into the complexities of these crimes and to seek out ways to combat them with every fiber of my being.

As I reflect upon the journey that has led me to this moment, I am humbled by the profound impact of these remarkable women. To Michaela, whose memory serves as a beacon of hope in the darkest of times, and to Sharon, whose legacy of compassion and strength will forever endure—I dedicate this page.

May we, in their honor, rededicate ourselves to the pursuit of justice and protection for every child, every human. May we stand as guardians against the scourge of human trafficking, child pornography, and all forms of cybercrime. And may we, with unwavering resolve, continue to champion the cause of safety and vigilance for all.

Click on the picture to see Sharons Website