EDITORIAL: 26 reasons to act: Rachel D'Avino

Rachel D'Avino

Rachel D'Avino started work as an aide specializing in behavioral issues in children with autism at Sandy Hook Elementary School on Dec. 12.

According to the Hartford Courant, she gathered with friends that night and created a time capsule for which she wrote this message: "It is my DREAM that you know my name as a leader in behavior analysis for children and adults with autism. However, I will be thrilled if I make a few people have an easier, more enjoyable life."

Her boyfriend was making plans to propose to D'Avino on Dec. 24, Christmas Eve.


Instead, Rachel D'Avino's life was taken, two days into her work at Sandy Hook.

Hundreds of bullets from a Bushmaster AR-15, fed by high-capacity ammunition magazines, were used to murder her, five other educators, and 20 of the kids in their care.

Rachel D'Avino was 29 years old, with so much life left to live and so much potential to help improve the lives of others.

We owe it to her memory and those who mourn her loss to address the issue of gun violence in this country.