The Heart of Our Mission
Early Life
Born in Houston, Texas, Ophelia Ann Preston faced significant challenges early in life, being discovered to be deaf and mute at a young age. These circumstances led her to attend specialized schools for the deaf, where she demonstrated remarkable resilience, ultimately graduating from the Delavan School for the Deaf in Wisconsin.
Ophelia was raised by her grandmother after her biological mother, who struggled with her own challenges, was unable to care for her. Dorothy McCollum, who is now the Executive Director of Saving Ophelia, shared a close bond with Ophelia, considering her like a younger sister. Dorothy was the only family member to learn sign language to communicate with her, highlighting their deep connection and Ophelia’s impact on her life.
A Life Forever Changed
After graduating high school, Ophelia took the brave step of pursuing higher education. Unfortunately, her path took a tragic turn when she became entangled in drugs and ultimately fell victim to human trafficking. Her family remained unaware of her situation until a shocking incident in Chicago, where Ophelia was held captive but managed to escape with the help of Dorothy McCollum and her husband.
Despite her courageous escape, Ophelia’s struggles with addiction and exploitation continued. Just before her daughter’s third birthday, Ophelia tragically disappeared at the age of 22, leaving her family in a state of uncertainty. It wasn’t until later that her body was found and identified at the morgue, where she had been listed as a Jane Doe. The date was October 22, 1994.
The search for justice was long and difficult. It took almost two decades before Ophelia’s killer was brought to justice, a painful process that left a profound mark on her family and loved ones, especially Dorothy, who never gave up on the hope of finding closure for Ophelia’s story.
A Legacy of Resilience
Many individuals, regardless of their impairments, remain silenced by the enduring pain and struggles of escaping human trafficking.
Ophelia’s legacy speaks out against human trafficking and provides essential resources for those directly affected, as well as for members of the broader community.
Her story not only reflects the vulnerability faced by many, but also the remarkable resilience they exhibit. It emphasizes the critical need for support, awareness, and advocacy for those at risk and marginalized.
Honoring Ophelia’s Legacy
A Dedication to All Victims of Human Trafficking
Ophelia’s legacy is at the heart of Ophelia Speaks’ mission to provide vital support, empowerment, and resources to those at high risk of human trafficking, as well as victims of abuse. Just as Ophelia faced unimaginable struggles, our organization strives to offer a path to recovery and reintegration for individuals trapped in these cycles of harm. By honoring Ophelia, we are committed to creating a future where no one suffers in silence, working to restore lost dreams and provide the tools needed for survivors to reclaim their lives. Through collective action and a dedication to safety, we aim to transform the lives of those most at risk, ensuring that Ophelia’s memory inspires hope and long-lasting change.