Louise De Sousa has carried the sorrow of her daughter’s tragic death in a mass shooting at Montreal’s Dawson College for nearly twenty years. Approaching the 20th anniversary of the shooting, De Sousa still contemplates the life her daughter Anastasia could have led. The lingering “what-ifs” often resurface, particularly during significant family occasions like births and weddings.
Reflecting on the last day she saw Anastasia alive, De Sousa vividly recalls the morning of September 13, 2006. Despite offering to drive her to school, Anastasia, then 18, declined the ride. Tragically, later that same day, a gunman entered the school, resulting in Anastasia’s death and injuries to 19 others. De Sousa first learned of the shooting during a lunch break at work, and frantic attempts to reach her daughter went unanswered until the devastating confirmation arrived at 9 p.m.
Navigating the aftermath of the loss proved to be a blur for De Sousa, yet she found solace in her family’s support. Therapy sessions with her husband and the unity within the family aided in coping with the grief. Each year, De Sousa and her immediate family join survivor Hayder Kadhim and his family at the cemetery, finding comfort in the shared memories of Anastasia.
Despite the passage of time, De Sousa still senses Anastasia’s presence in their home. From familiar scents to remnants of her presence in songs and moments that evoke memories, Anastasia’s spirit remains palpable. De Sousa’s daily conversations with her late daughter attest to the enduring bond they share.
Following Anastasia’s tragic death, De Sousa became involved with PolySeSouvient, a Canadian gun-control advocacy group established after the École Polytechnique massacre. Advocating for stricter gun control measures, De Sousa emphasizes the need for more comprehensive government action in addressing this critical issue. Remaining connected with fellow survivors and dedicated to preserving Anastasia’s memory, De Sousa strives to ensure that the Dawson College tragedy and its impact are never forgotten.
In her ongoing efforts, De Sousa underscores the importance of remembrance and learning from past tragedies to create a safer future.