When I founded an organization dedicated to helping individuals injured in motor vehicle crashes, I faced countless decisions. One of the more personal choices I made was to operate under my middle name. While it might seem like a small detail, this decision carries significant meaning and reflects the values and mission of our work at the Crash Support Network.

A Name That Represents Our Mission

As the founder of an organization dedicated to helping motor vehicle crash victims, I made the significant decision to drop my first name, Shirlene, and embrace my middle name, Dawne. This change was not just a personal preference; it was a reflection of the mission and values I hold at the core of the Crash Support Network.  Dropping my first name, was a personal act of authenticity. I wanted my identity to align with my purpose—to be a guiding light for those in need. Dawne represents the commitment to be present for others, to listen, and to provide the support that can make a real difference during one of the most challenging times in their lives.

A Name with Purpose

Names are more than identifiers; they are reflections of who we are and what we stand for.  My middle name, Dawne carries a certain warmth and connection.  It feels empowering, almost like a fresh chapter waiting to unfold.  The name Dawne embodies hope, renewal, and new beginnings—qualities that resonate profoundly with the journey of recovery for crash survivors.  After experiencing the trauma of a motor vehicle crash, individuals often find themselves in dark places, facing overwhelming challenges. By choosing to embrace my middle name Dawne, I wanted to symbolize that there is light after the darkness, that every ending can lead to a new and brighter beginning.

Changing your name can be a powerful and transformative act. For many, it’s more than just adopting a new label—it’s about stepping into a fresh identity that aligns with who you’ve become or who you aspire to be. Whether driven by personal growth, a significant life event, or the desire to leave behind an old chapter, the act of changing your name can symbolize renewal, empowerment, and a new sense of purpose.

The Next Chapter

For crash survivors or those who have faced major challenges, changing a name can represent reclaiming their story. It’s a way to honor the journey of recovery and healing, allowing them to move forward unburdened by past trauma. This decision is often deeply personal and reflects inner strength. Whether it’s choosing a middle name, a nickname, or something entirely new, the change signifies a bold step in owning your identity and writing the next chapter of your life.

Being named after my mom has always been a part of me, but “Dawne” can be a powerful reminder that no matter how difficult the challenges, every day offers the chance to begin again with new hope and strength, and it’s a reminder that we can evolve and redefine ourselves.  Looking back, I can confidently say it was the best decision I could have made.

S. Dawne McKay is a survivor of a horrific crash that changed her life forever.  Dawne shares her personal journey as a Crash Survivor Blogger and also collaborates with crash survivors as Guest Bloggers allowing them an opportunity to share their stories.  Dawne is also the author of the book, “Talk Crash to Me – What to Expect After Surviving a Collision and How to Manage Your Recovery” which is available for purchase on Amazon.

The Crash Support Network is a unique one-of-a-kind website consisting of an online support group, a crash survivor blog, a quarterly newsletter, “Sharing Our Recovery” as well as highly informative articles. Our website is based on relationship-building and puts the needs of survivors first by creating a helpful resource for victims and survivors of motor vehicle crashes