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Tragedy often reveals the true character of a community. When Christy Camara lost her son Wyland under horrific circumstances in March 2020, Hanford didn't just offer condolences—it embraced her mission to prevent similar tragedies and honor her son's memory.
The heart of this episode revolves around Christy's raw, powerful story. Born and raised on a Hanford dairy farm, this former yoga instructor and business owner shares the unimaginable moment she learned her son had been fatally shot by his father. Rather than surrendering to grief, Christy transformed her pain into purpose.
Christy walks us through her journey of advocacy, from her own website Wyland's Mom to her collaboration with Pierce's Pledge (creating the first national gun storage map) to writing a heart-wrenching yet ultimately hopeful book, "Can I Still Be Funny After My Son's Murder?" Most significantly, she's been the driving force behind Wyland's Law (AB 1363), legislation designed to address the systemic failures that contributed to her son's death. Though it's passed unanimously in both the Assembly and Senate, the bill still faces hurdles before becoming law.
Perhaps the most beautiful testament to Wyland's legacy is the annual birthday celebration at Thursday Night Marketplace—a tradition born from community donations that now provides free rides and activities for local children. What began as a memorial has evolved into a night of community joy that honors Wyland by bringing happiness to other children.
Throughout our conversation, Christy's resilience shines through. Despite unimaginable loss, she continues advocating for change, preserving her son's memory, and creating spaces for community healing. Her story reminds us that even in our darkest moments, we can create meaning and connection.
Join us for this powerful conversation, and if you're moved by Christy's story, consider attending Thursday's celebration. Together, we can ensure Wyland's legacy creates positive change for generations to come.
In this episode, our friend Carolyn Hudgins also stops by to tell us about the "All White Party" that the Women with Visions Unlimited is putting on on September 6th.
Here is the link to support Hanford Police Officer Daniel Todd and his family in his recovery.
Closing out this episode is an update on the local high school sports action from Eric Bentley.
You can find the Hanford Insider at www.hanfordinsider.com and on social media at @hanfordinsider
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