Two decades have passed since the tragic Dawson College shooting, but for Louise De Sousa, the pain of losing her daughter, Anastasia, remains as raw as ever. On September 13, 2006, Anastasia, just 18 years old, lost her life to a gunman’s senseless violence inside the college’s cafeteria. Despite the passage of time, Louise still speaks to her daughter daily, keeping her memory alive.
Louise fondly recalls Anastasia’s infectious laughter, a memory that continues to bring warmth to her heart. She describes how even in her absence, she finds solace in conversing with her daughter and asking her to watch over their family.
The impact of losing Anastasia has been profound, shaping Louise’s outlook on life. While the pain is ever-present, she has learned to carry on, cherishing the beautiful moments shared with her daughter. She reflects on the unfairness of the tragedy, acknowledging that acceptance has been a challenging journey.
The day of the shooting is etched in Louise’s memory, a day filled with uncertainty and fear. The confirmation of Anastasia’s passing shattered their family, leaving a void that could never be filled. Despite the immense loss, Louise and her husband made a conscious choice to move forward, prioritizing their other children’s well-being.
Today, Louise honors Anastasia’s legacy by sharing her story with students, advocating for support and compassion among young people. Through her speaking engagements, she aims to raise awareness about the importance of mental health support and recognizing signs of distress in others.
Twenty years later, the grief lingers, a constant companion in Louise’s life. She continues to carry her daughter’s memory with her, finding strength in keeping Anastasia’s spirit alive through her words and actions.
