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Community keeps memory of Somer Thompson alive 6 years after disappearance

By Russell Colburn, Action News Jax
By Russell Colburn, Action News Jax

ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla. — Oct. 19 is a day that's burned into the memories of many people across our area.

It's the day 7-year-old Somer Thompson was taken on her way home from school six years ago.

A few days later, she was found dead. The community is keeping her memory alive.

Many golfers came together at the Palencia Club Monday morning to honor Somer’s memory.

Many people were wearing her favorite color, purple, with a special message on the sleeve of their T-shirts, The Somer Thompson Memorial.

“I just ask that we have a moment of silence in memory of Somer,” organizer Mike Williams said “Thanks, guys. I really appreciate it. Have fun today out there, OK?”

Somer's mother, Diena Thompson, was there to let the golfers know what this means to her.

“Could you do it without that support? Without things like this?” Action News Jax reporter Russell Colburn asked Thompson.

“No way. No way,” Thompson said.

She cheers the golfers on and in some cases, all the while, holding back tears.

"I can't help but think that she would be at school right now, 6 years ago and I would be at work thinking just that it was another regular, normal Monday and that I'd come home and everything would be normal," Thompson said.

Now, events like this raise money for the foundation in Somer's name.

It's all to raise awareness on how to protect children from sexual abuse and violence and to educate parents.

“That's our weapon, that's our tool to fight against these monsters,” Thompson said.

Although she doesn't play golf herself, Thompson will be back every year, since support works both ways.

In its six years, this event has raised more than $120,000 towards helping children.

WJAX

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