D’Sean Perry: A Mother’s Story After the UVA Shooting

A tragedy can become a headline in seconds, but for the families left behind, the story never ends. In this episode of I Want You To Know, we sit down with Happy Perry, the mother of D’Sean Perry, one of three University of Virginia student athletes killed on November 13, 2022. Happy shares the story of D’Sean beyond the tragedy: his creativity as an artist, his kindness as a friend and teammate, his role as a protector, and the dreams he was still building.  We talk about what happens when the news cycle moves on but a family’s grief remains, how losing a child changes everyday life, and why remembering the person behind the headline matters. Happy also opens up about turning unimaginable grief into advocacy, carrying on D’Sean’s passion for helping others, and fighting for gun safety and prevention. She talks honestly about the realities of grief, the triggers that can surface years later, the importance of giving yourself grace, and what she wants other families affected by violence to know. Resources: Learn more about the D’Sean Perry Foundation: dseanperry.com/  Free confidential help is always available at victimconnect.org   If you have been a victim of a crime and would like to share your story, please contact us at [email protected]  — This podcast discusses real crimes and may include sensitive topics that could be difficult for some listeners. Listener discretion is advised. The information shared in this podcast is for informational and storytelling purposes only and is not intended as legal advice.