SACRAMENTO, Calif. — For many people, Mother's Day is a day to celebrate. However, for some, it's another day to remind them that their child is no longer here.
"I really like today, I hate today," said Jenifer Redmond.
It's been more than two years since Redmond's daughter, Sarayah, was shot and killed at a Natomas apartment complex. Sacramento Police said the 19-year-old was in the apartment watching a movie when someone shot into the apartment, killing her. Back in October, police announced an arrest and charged Treace Palmer with her murder.
While that is one step closer to justice for Redmond, she said a day like Mother's Day is a painful reminder that nothing will bring back her daughter.
"I was at the cemetery at 7 a.m. this morning; I didn't want to leave," said Redmond.
This pain is similar for Deborah Grimes. It's her first Mother's Day without her son, Greg Najee Grimes.
"I'm now realizing that I'm actually honoring a bereaved Mother's Day. So it'd be my first then. Of course, it's extremely emotional for me, so I have a lot of mixed feelings about the pride that I have for my son," said Grimes.
Sacramento police said Najee was shot and killed last July during a night out in downtown. No one has been charged in his death. Since then, Grimes has been working hard to keep his legacy alive by creating a foundation in his name. Next month, Grimes will host an event to raise awareness about gun violence and empower those who have lost loved ones.
"They'll be doing 'Stop the Bleed' trainings. We're doing responsible gun ownership, we're giving away free gun locks, (and) we're doing suicide prevention, training," said Grimes.
Even with today being a difficult reminder for both Grimes and Redmond, they said they're doing their best to remember their child all while honoring their grief.
The LifeSavers Party will take place on June 24 from 10:00 a.m. - 4 p.m. It will be held at the North Natomas Community Center and 2601 New Market Dr.
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