Desert Shadows Middle School, Nogales Az

Nearly a month ago Kaity's Way presented to the 8th grade students of Desert Shadows Middle School at the request of Ms. Coopers class. These brilliant students organized an assembly for their peers to educate them about a very prevalent issue. The warning signs of Teen Dating Violence, Kaity's Law and the elements of a Healthy Relationship. The fact that these students care so much about their fellow students and their community is so inspiring that we can hardly wait until the next opportunity to collaborate with them.

More than 200 surveys were completed by the students. Some had some very good questions which we will answer below.

Why didn't Kaity call a princpal or an authority the minute the relationship turned wrong? Often times in an abusive relationship the victim is so involved that they do not realize right away when the relationship has turned wrong. Ultimately, she did realize and ended the relationship.

What did Daniels parents do about the situation? We do not know

Do you wish you could have done anything differently? Yes, but we couldn't guarantee the outcome would have been any different.

Did your husband talk to Daniel? My husband chooses not to speak about what occurred so out of respect I do not ask. What I can tell you is that I do not know that he didn't speak to Daniel.

Are you mad at Daniel and his family? I have long since forgiven them

Did you get the signal when Daniel started to ask for Kaity's 24/7? Eventually

How do you have the strength to relive this by telling it to every school? It is our wish to be able to go to every single school, but we are not there yet. Either way, it is difficult at times, but in some ways it is very therapeutic. Helping others helps us.

If Daniel were still living, would you ever forgive him? I would like to think so.

How old would Kaity be right now? 21

How does the judge feel that he didn't file the order of protection? I don't know

How is your family? They are doing well

Do you still celebrate Kaity's Birthday? Yes, we release balloons every year on July 5th and encourage others to join us no matter where they are.

How did Kaity's Sister react to the death of her big sister? She was devastated in the beginning and still misses her and always will.

Why didn't you take and pick Kaity up from school yourself? I wish I had

What would you have done to prevent this? Made her stay in New Hampshire to finish school

How do you feel after your loss? Sad and I miss her terribly

How long did it take you to share Kaity's Story with the world? April 22, 2008 was the first time I told a version of Kaity's Story

Why didn't the mom do something earlier? not sure if you are asking about Daniels mom or Kaity's mom.