BARROW COUNTY, Ga. — Devastation still wreaks havoc over the Apalachee High community following a mass shooting that took the lives of four and left nine others in the hospital last week.
As hearts continue to break, one family is grateful after a 15-year-old shooting victim gets to return to the loving arms of her family.
"Melany’s life is going to be forever changed. Her childhood has been stripped from her. She’s a normal young teen who loves to be with friends, play soccer, and spend time with family, and none of those hobbies will ever be the same now," a fundraiser for the teen reads.
15-year-old Melany Garcia was shot in the shoulder; the bullet broke the bone that connects the shoulder to the arm.
She was in class when the alleged shooter, Colt Gray, entered the room she was in and opened fire.
Her mom shared online that her daughter texted her just after it happened, “Mommy, I’m shot.”
Even though Melany was injured, her mom shared on Facebook that she tried to help her friends and keep her classmates calm.
Two of her sisters were also in that hallway, calling 911 and texting their mom that they were so scared.
Melany was rushed to the hospital and had two emergency surgeries, according to the fundraiser.
The bullet went straight through, so doctors are hopeful that the wound will heal.
Now that she is finally home, her mom wants everyone to see her daughter's smile, perseverance and strength.
Melany's mother added that her daughters are her heroes, and she is so grateful they are home safely.
But her heart breaks for those who will never come back home to their loved ones.
The horror of the tragedy has the entire community shaken as they mourn the loss of two beloved teachers and two students.