Louise De Sousa has carried the sorrow of losing her daughter in a tragic shooting at Montreal’s Dawson College for almost twenty years. Approaching the 20th anniversary of the incident, De Sousa still contemplates the unlived life her daughter, Anastasia, could have had. The lingering “what ifs” haunt her daily, particularly during significant family occasions like births and weddings.
Reflecting on the last moments she spent with her daughter, De Sousa vividly recalls the morning of September 13, 2006. On that fateful day, she offered Anastasia a ride to school, a gesture her daughter declined. Tragically, later that day, a gunman entered the college premises and unleashed terror, claiming Anastasia’s life and injuring numerous others.
The news of the shooting reached De Sousa while she was at work, and frantic attempts to reach Anastasia proved futile. The agonizing wait ended at 9 p.m. when De Sousa received the devastating confirmation of her daughter’s demise. The night of the tragedy was filled with inconsolable grief, with every family member yearning for Anastasia’s return.
In the aftermath of her daughter’s passing, De Sousa found solace in therapy and the unwavering support of her family. Each year, they gather at the cemetery alongside Hayder Kadhim, a survivor of the shooting, to honor Anastasia’s memory. These moments of remembrance provide comfort, allowing them to connect with Anastasia and share cherished memories.
Despite the passage of time, De Sousa still feels Anastasia’s presence within their home. The essence of her daughter lingers in subtle ways, from familiar scents to nostalgic songs that evoke memories of shared moments. De Sousa often encounters signs that she interprets as messages from Anastasia, reinforcing the belief that her daughter’s spirit remains close.
Transforming her grief into advocacy, De Sousa has become a vocal proponent of gun control measures through her involvement with PolySeSouvient. She emphasizes the need for stricter regulations and remains in touch with fellow survivors, united in their shared trauma and determination to prevent similar tragedies. De Sousa’s unwavering commitment to keeping Anastasia’s memory alive serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring impact of loss and the imperative of collective remembrance and action.
