HONOLULU (KHON2) — A candlelight vigil remembered victims of domestic violence and honored the strength of those who were able to break the cycle Wednesday evening. Get Hawaii's latest morning news delivered to your inbox, sign up for News 2 You Every 7.5 seconds, someone experiences abuse by a current or ex partner across the nation, according to the Domestic Violence Action Center (DVAC). "I know the pain, and you don't know the pain until it's your own," stated Lucita Ani-Nihoa. Ani-Nihoa's daughter, Theresa Cachuela, was shot and killed by her husband in the Pearl Ridge Center Parking lot back in December. The still grieving mother read Cachuela's name during Wednesday's candlelit vigil. The event was hosted by DVAC to remember those who died at the hands of their abusers. Tragic accident claims 13yo North Kona boy’s life "We just got to keep going strong for them," said Ani-Nihoa. "This is something bigger than ourselves. This is not all about just me or just my daughter. It's everybody." Ani-Nihoa and state officials say they'll continue fighting for those who don't know how to break the cycle of abuse. "A stronger law so that when people get a restraining order, they have much more protection," stated Governor Josh Green. "Also, more resources for safe homes and safe places to go. We're going to pay down the debt of a lot of social workers and psychologists and psychiatrists, so they're more available." Others are helping educate the community on dating violence. "Reminding them of what those things are like gaslighting or like physical violence, emotional violence," said Pono Riddle, a member of Women Speaking Out Hawaii. "One in every three can experience dating violence within a high school age and one in every four can experience it in the middle school age." Candles were lit to recognize the courage it takes to reach out for help. Download the free KHON2 app for iOS or Android to stay informed on the latest news "I had to ask God to help me, to renew my spirit so that I can forgive, and that journey took a while, but now I starting to forgive others and hopefully we all can learn forgiveness," said Ani-Nihoa.