It’s regarding their claim that I lost my lawsuit against them. The truth is that we are awaiting judgement on their appeal for what they have termed a nuisance lawsuit and which actually is a judgement in my favor from the first trial. Both judges ruled The Iron Maidens had a partnership (they and their manager all claimed there was no partnership) and they owed me for non-payment of the sale of my recordings with the band on our CDs and DVDs, as well as for non-payment of foreign distribution monies for a 2008 release of our first CD in Brazil.

The sole basis of their appeal was that I should also have named the 2 new members – whom I’ve never even met as well as 2 members who weren’t even with the band when I left and 1 who is no longer with them now. Both judges disagreed and ruled against them on this element of their appeal. A final decision has not yet been reached, though a preliminary judgement was issued and is the basis of their current press release. They have been asked to cease and desist until the actual judgement has been reached by the court of appeals.

I would also like to clarify that this was NOT a frivolous nuisance suit nor a decision made lightly or easily but was something to which I gave long and serious consideration. Ultimately, though, I felt I had no other choice because it involves the one thing that matters most to any artist – their work.

Yea, I know, it was just a tribute band but we were all passionate about it and I think it showed. It’s an incredible feeling to perform this powerful music – and to sing the role of one of the greatest singers in not just metal but any music. It’s like plugging into an electric socket. After four years of that kind of intensity-well, it feels like a part of me now.

I loved every moment including all the hard work involved – and it was a pure labor of love in every way. I’m extremely proud of my contributions both on the stage and behind the scenes for the results we achieved as one of the most celebrated female bands in the world today. Not bad for just a tribute band!

And I will say this -this lawsuit was one of the most difficult things I have ever undertaken but one that was absolutely necessary to do. Did the judge award me a little money? Sure, that’s how it works. But that isn’t why I put myself through the hell of this legal battle that no one else thought I could win, including their lawyer. Especially considering I was alone, represented myself and was armed only with the truth. Another truth is this- war is heck.

But in order to be able to respect and live with yourself, sometimes there’s no other choice except to take the fight on. No matter the cost to yourself. And the cost is dear. This holds especially true in matters of principle. And MOST especially, if it means protecting innocent young people down the line. I am a mother myself and I don’t care to set that kind of example. If anyone learns anything from this, then it’s worth it. I have been a teacher of martial arts and as a black belt, this is my obligation. Otherwise, I don’t deserve to wear it. And as a human being? Even more so. For what profits a man should he gain the world yet lose his own soul?

The support being shown by so many of you means more than you could ever know. Thank you for your kind messages. I’m overwhelmed and very humbled. No, this has not been easy – I don’t do lawsuits. I’ve never needed to. And my first was just days after losing my beloved baby sister, Rosemary, to her 5 year battle with breast cancer . No, it wasn’t easy but it was necessary, as everything that truly matters is.