Cincinnati survivor describes memory loss after attacker pleads guilty

A woman knocked unconscious in a downtown Cincinnati brawl is rebuilding her life while her attacker faces prison.

Holly, who is identified only by her first name, spoke with FOX19 NOW reporter Tricia Macke shortly after Patrick Rosemond entered a guilty plea on Thursday. Rosemond had turned down a four-year deal just one day prior. He now faces a sentence of 21 to 35 years behind bars.

Holly described the night of the attack as an out-of-body experience. She recalled feeling numb and nauseous while unconscious. A stranger lay on top of her body to shield her from others who wanted to kick her. Holly heard the woman yelling her name, urging her to get up. That protection left a lasting impression on her recovery.

The traumatic brain injury wiped away nearly all her memories from before the assault. Holly said her childhood and years raising her children feel like they belonged to a different person. She must rely on others to tell her stories or show her photographs. She has spent the past year figuring out basic preferences, such as what foods she likes, because the slate was wiped clean.

Looking at family photos causes emotional pain because she cannot recall specific milestones with her kids. One memory she lost involved dancing around while brushing her teeth to Lady Gaga. Holly noted that the situation feels like seeing a family member with someone else’s children. She said it hurts her children not having those shared memories with her.

Holly adapted to physical setbacks that affected her vision. When her eyes struggled to read text, she closed them and typed to write a book. She also pursued certification as a life coach to help other trauma survivors. She studied through persistent migraines and memory hurdles by reviewing training materials multiple times.

Holly testified in person against Rosemond when his case went to trial. She described the courtroom encounter as terrifying. She compared looking at him to seeing the boogeyman from her childhood in real life. She said it felt like looking at pure evil in the eyes. The guilty plea abruptly ended the trial, but Holly plans to return to court for his sentencing hearing.

Holly said she wants to speak to Rosemond to tell him exactly how she feels. She noted that many people told her their own victimization was resolved by seeing her see this case through. She believes her statement might help others find closure. The case also prompted Sen. Bernie Moreno to propose a federal bail reform measure called Holly’s Act on Capitol Hill.