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HOGWARTS — Cassidy Stay is the sole survivor of a tragic crime that left her parents and siblings dead. On July 9, a gunman barged into her home in Texas and massacred her parents, Stephen and Katie, as well as her two brothers and two sisters: Bryan, 14, Emily, 9, Rebecca, 7, and Zach, 4.
Cassidy was also targeted, but the bullet grazed her head and she played dead until the killer left the house to find additional victims. It was at this moment that 15-year-old Cassidy showed her true courage. Although she had a fractured skull and had just witnessed unspeakable carnage, she called the police and gave a clear description of the killer. Her brave actions, which likely saved the lives of multiple family members, have inspired people around the world.
Only days after the incident, Cassidy spoke at a memorial service for her family. She shared thoughtful insights and those in attendance were stunned by the quiet strength she displayed. As part of her remarks, Cassidy quoted Albus Dumbledore, the headmaster from JK Rowling’s beloved book series. After telling the crowd that she was recovering from her injuries, she said:
“In 'The Prisoner of Azkaban,' Dumbledore says, ‘Happiness can be found even in the darkest times if one only remembers to turn on the light.’
Happiness can be found even in the darkest times if one only remembers to turn on the light.
–Albus Dumbledore, 'Prisoner of Azkaban'
“I know that my mom, dad, Bryan, Emily, Becca, and Zach are in a much better place and that I'll be able to see them again one day. Stay strong.”
Following the memorial service, a Facebook page was created to campaign for Cassidy to meet personally with Rowling. The “We want JK Rowling to meet Cassidy Stay” page attracted thousands of “likes” and soon it drew the attention of the renowned author.
As reported by The Telegraph, Rowling responded by sending Cassidy a wonderfully unique care package. It included a letter handwritten in purple ink, with words of comfort in the voice of Dumbledore. Also in the package was an acceptance letter to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, a school supply list, a magic wand and a signed copy of "The Prisoner of Azkaban" (the line that Cassidy quoted comes from the film based on this book).
A post on the “We want JK Rowling to meet Cassidy Stay” Facebook page announced the gifts that Cassidy had received and added: “I’m so excited and ecstatic that we were all able to make a difference! How wonderful.”
According to the report in The Telegraph, Rowling was deeply moved by Cassidy’s story and tracked down her contact details in order to send the gifts. A spokesman for the author confirmed that she had sent the items and that the contents of the letter were to remain private. When asked if a meeting between Rowling and Cassidy was on the horizon, the spokesman said, “We wouldn’t comment on that but [Cassidy’s] is a remarkable story.”
Grant Olsen has been writing for the KSL.com team since 2012. He covers outdoor adventures, travel, product reviews and other interesting things. You can contact him at grantorrin@gmail.com.
