Luca Ciampini is visiting a makeshift memorial for his three-year-old daughter, Ava, every day in LaSalle, Quebec. One week after a bouncy castle was lifted by strong winds during a community event, he remembers the little girl he says could light up any room.
On Sunday, May 31, a community celebration organized by the Madre dei Cristiani church turned chaotic when the play structure was swept dozens of feet into the air. Witnesses described a terrifying scene. Urgences-santé reported 11 people injured, six transported to hospital, including two children. Ava died from her injuries. Another three-year-old remains in critical condition.
Luca says the reality is impossible to comprehend. Support has poured in, with a GoFundMe campaign raising nearly half a million dollars. In her final act, Ava’s organs were donated, saving four other lives. Luca calls it her legacy.
A public memorial is scheduled for Tuesday at Ouellette park.