From Horror to Hope: A Sandy Hook Survivor Story

“The very first thing I thought when I heard the first shot wasn't why, but it was, "I can't believe the Columbine is happening here.”

In the blink of an eye, an ordinary day can turn into horror. On Dec. 14, 2012, Sandy Hook Elementary School teacher Kaitlin Roig-DeBellis was with her class when she heard the unmistakable sounds of gunshots.  Without hesitation, she crammed herself and her students into a small bathroom -- and saved 16 lives in what's now known as the deadliest elementary school shooting in U.S. history.  Traumatized by the events, Kaitlin was a shell of her former self. But she decided to take her power back, starting with letting go of her “whys?” Today, she’s moving forward, not moving on -- and choosing hope as she shares her story to inspire others to do the same. https://letsnottalkaboutit.com

Content warning: This episode contains talk of gun violence.

Hosts:
Camille Tuutti
Sharon Tiger
Amanda Ziadeh

Guest:
Kaitlin Roig-DeBellis of Classes 4 Classes

Expert:
Dr. Akua K. Boateng

Editor:
Tessa Hall

Behind the Scenes:
Lisa Abeyta

Music: 
“Incoming” by Jeffrey C. Mund 
"Arms of Gold" by Tape Machines