Speaking for Helena: The Brutal Mother’s Day Murder

More Than a Crime - A Story of Resilience and Strength

Discover the untold story behind the headlines of the infamous Oshawa’s “Mother’s Day Murder”.

More than just true crime, “Speaking for Helena” tells the extraordinary story of survival, resilience, and strength. Helena Ustupski’s tragic murder ended a life marked by incredible perseverance through decades of hardship. This isn’t about sensationalizing violence; it’s about giving Helena her voice and celebrating an extraordinary woman whose legacy deserves to be remembered beyond tragedy.

For 20 years, our family has worked to speak for Helena, not just about her final moments, but about her remarkable journey of survival and the strength that defined her every day.

In a city of shadows, where resilience thrived against all odds, a family sought safety, hope, and a future. But tragedy struck in the most brutal and senseless way, shattering lives and exposing the dark underbelly of a community struggling to protect its own. This is the true story of survival, justice, and one daughter’s unrelenting quest to honor the memory of her mother.

For Readers Who Believe Justice Matters

Helena was a survivor—a fierce, unyielding fighter who battled through hardships that would have crushed many others. Her story is not one of triumph but of resilience, survival, and, ultimately, tragedy. This book ensures Helena’s life and legacy rise above the act of violence that took her from us.

What Makes This Story Different

  • A 20-year journey of healing and reflection
  • A focus on Helena’s extraordinary life, not just her death
  • Raw, emotional, and authentic storytelling
  • Written for families who understand loss and the justice system journey.

About the Author

Introducing Lisa Hausz

Speaking for Helena isn’t just a true crime story—it’s a deeply personal exploration of resilience in the face of unimaginable tragedy. Set against the backdrop of Oshawa, a city grappling with its own identity, the book takes readers on a journey from post-war Poland to modern-day Canada. It intertwines the harrowing realities of communist oppression, the struggles of immigration, and the heartache of a family shattered by violence. With meticulously researched historical context and raw, emotional storytelling, this book reveals not only the horrors of a single crime but the enduring strength of a survivor’s spirit.

Lisa Hausz is an award-winning economic development professional and debut author. Drawing from personal experience, she tells a deeply emotional family story shaped by tragedy and political, social, and economic realities. Lisa divides her time between Canada and Arizona, where she writes and enjoys life with her husband of 25 years and their two grown children.

Watch the Trailer

About the Book

Why write about a 20-year-old murder? Because Helena Ustupski was extraordinary. This isn’t a tale about a victim who fit the media’s overused mold. Helena was a survivor—a fierce, unyielding fighter who battled through hardships that would have crushed many others.

Helena fought her way through a life shaped by adversity, surviving challenges and relentless obstacles. Her bravery, her defiance against the odds, defined her. And in the end, it was this very bravery that made her story all the more heartbreaking.

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Reader Reviews & Endorsements

Get your copy of Speaking for Helena today and experience a story that will captivate your heart, challenge your understanding, and remind you of the power of family bonds. Available now in hardcover, paperback, and eBook formats.

“A hauntingly beautiful narrative that weaves historical insight with gut-wrenching emotion. A must-read for true crime enthusiasts and history buffs alike.”

Jane Doe, True Crime Blogger

“This book is not just about crime; it’s about survival, family, and the resilience of the human spirit. I couldn’t put it down.”

Shawna Sturtz, Early Reviewer

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Rex Grove

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Gretta Chelsey

Blogs

Researching ‘Speaking for Helena‘ was both heartbreaking and eye-opening. In this blog series, I’ll share the untold, behind-the-scenes stories I discovered, the challenges of writing about deeply personal loss, and the historical research that brought this book to life.

Let’s Connect Online

Media Inquiries and Book Events

Lisa is available for interviews, book signings, and discussions about “Speaking for Helena” and the importance of victim-centered true crime storytelling.

Speaking Engagements

Topics Lisa speaks about:

  • The research and behind the scenes of ‘Speaking for Helena’
  • The importance of giving victims their voice
  • Healing through storytelling
  • Supporting families affected by crime.

Book Launch Events

With an anticipated October launch approaching, Lisa is scheduling events to share Helena’s story and connect with readers who value meaningful true crime. Sign up to receive updates and join the conversation.

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