Newsmakers: Maple Grove Nonprofit Shares Natalie’s Story, Highlights Domestic Violence

The Biessel family of Maple Grove operate a nonprofit and advocacy group called Love Conquers Violence to remember their loved one, Natalie Beissel, who died of domestic violence in 2015.

“Our No. 1 goal is to tell Natalie’s story and make sure another family doesn’t go through the pain that we’ve endured,” said Shelly Biessel, Natalie’s sister-in-law. “I think one of the most surprising things we’ve learned is the statistics. One in three women will be a victim of domestic violence and one in nine men. When you hear that, it takes your breath away.”

Natalie Biessel was in her final year of medical school when she died in a domestic violence incident.

Biessel and her family have shared Natalie’s story, as well as resources on domestic violence prevention, with churches, schools and other groups prior to COVID-19. They look forward to doing that once again.

“If someone you suspect is in an abusive relationship, number one, believe them, and number two, be there for them,” said Biessel. “Offer support, maybe offering them a phone call to get help.”

The National Domestic Violence hotline is confidential and open 24-hours a day. The number is 1-800-799-SAFE or the website is www.TheHotline.org

Love Conquers Violence holds one major fundraiser each year, and this year the event is back in person. Bags for Nat will be Aug. 7 at Malone’s in Maple Grove. You can learn more about it, or register here.