The Ana Grace Project

Interview with Sandy Hook Mother, Nelba Márquez-Greene

On December 14, 2012, at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut, tragedy struck. That morning, 20 children and 6 adult staff members were taken by the violent acts of a mentally disturbed gunman. Among those lost, was Ana Márquez-Greene (Ana Grace), beloved daughter of Nelba Márquez-Greene and Jimmy Greene.

Leslie: Hello, Nelba. Thank you for joining us. Let’s start at the heart of the matter. Tell us a little about your daughter, Ana Grace.

Nelba: Ana Grace was a “prayed for before she was born” child. Like her brother, her birth was anticipated not only by her mom and dad, but by hundreds of people who loved her before her arrival. She was a perfect and precious gift to our family and the completion of our circle of love. Her love of God and people made her the kind of child that could connect with just about anyone. I was born in Puerto Rico. Ana’s dad is African American. We were fortunate enough to be able to provide Ana with a life that was incredibly diverse. Her l…