Most brides worry about flower arrangements or the weather forecast in the days leading up to their wedding.
But for Canada Gomez, her biggest concern was whether she’d even be able to smile for her groom.
Just weeks before her big day, her bachelorette celebration took a horrific turn — and not in any way she could’ve imagined.
From Party to Tragedy: A Nightmare in Dallas
Canada had carefully planned what was supposed to be a fun and unforgettable girls’ weekend with her closest friends.
Think boat rides, brunches, a pole dancing class, and a night out on the town — all the classic bachelorette weekend ingredients.
But in the early hours of March 23, outside a nightclub in Dallas, everything changed in an instant.
As Canada and her friends waited for their Uber near Cash Cow club around 2 a.m., a man came out of nowhere and hit her from behind.
She fell face-first onto the pavement, unconscious and bleeding heavily.
The joyous weekend instantly became a horrifying scene.
Severe Injuries and a Shocking Arrest
The attack left Canada with a concussion, two black eyes, a broken nose, three damaged teeth, and eight stitches across her forehead.
Her face was swollen beyond recognition.
According to her sister Brieanna, who witnessed the incident, “She was covered in blood — it was everywhere. We didn’t even know where it was coming from.”
Police later arrested 27-year-old Trevor Woodards on March 28.
He had just been released on parole and had a long history of criminal behavior, including assault and burglary.
Canada couldn’t help but feel that the justice system had failed her — and others.
The Fight to Heal — Physically and Emotionally
Despite the brutal injuries, Canada’s healing process went better than expected.
“My nose healed straight on its own, which was a big relief,” she said.
The swelling gradually reduced, and the bruises began to fade.
Within weeks, she was regaining her strength — just in time for her wedding on April 26.
She was determined not to let the attack take away her moment.
On her big day, she walked down the aisle glowing, with only a little makeup needed to hide a few lingering marks.
The wedding took place at Wild Sage Ranch in Hugoton, Kansas, and she married her longtime love, Brandon Gomez, with whom she shares two sons.
A Celebration of Love, Strength, and Support
Far from being a day shadowed by pain, the wedding turned out to be a beautiful celebration.
“Everything went smoothly — it was perfect,” Canada said with joy.
Friends and family rallied around her, offering love, encouragement, and a deep sense of support.
Her bridesmaids, some of whom had been there the night of the attack, put together a heartfelt video celebrating their friendship and resilience.
While they chose not to bring up the assault directly during the ceremony, the strength it took to reach that day was deeply felt by everyone present.
Ongoing Recovery and a Message of Hope
Canada is still undergoing dental treatments from the injuries.
“I had three broken teeth,” she shared.
“Two were easily fixed, but one in the back needed a crown — and during that process, they found another tooth that also needs repair.”
Despite these issues, she feels lucky that she didn’t need major surgery.
As for legal action, Canada confirmed she’s pressing charges against her attacker.
“I’ve signed up for notifications if he’s released or moved. I just want him to face the consequences,” she said.
While she’s unsure if she’d say anything to him directly, she hopes the experience teaches him something.
“The system failed both of us,” she added.
Refusing to Let Darkness Steal the Light
Looking back, Canada remains focused on what truly matters.
“The wedding was perfect. I won’t let what happened overshadow my happiness,” she said firmly.
Her story is not just about a violent incident — it’s about resilience, love, and reclaiming joy in the face of trauma.
As she continues to recover and heal, one thing is clear: Canada isn’t letting anything — or anyone — rob her of the life she’s building.