Montreal survivor describes how she reclaimed a sense of safety

Nathalie Provost says returning to the school weeks after the 1989 École Polytechnique attack helped her reclaim a sense of safety; she shared those reflections as Canadians reacted to a recent school shooting in Tumbler Ridge that left nine people dead.

Nathalie Provost, a survivor of the 1989 École Polytechnique attack in Montreal, says it took weeks before she could return to the campus and that doing so helped her reclaim a sense of safety and move forward with life. She later completed her degree and is now a member of Parliament in Quebec. Provost's reflections were shared in the wake of a recent school shooting in Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia, where nine people were reported dead. Mental-health professionals cited in the report said shared routines and social connection can help restore a sense of safety after such events. Key points: - Nathalie Provost said returning to the school weeks after the 1989 attack helped her reclaim safety and continue her studies. - Provost, now a Member of Parliament, spoke about the sorrow and fear families face after the recent Tumbler Ridge shooting. - The Tumbler Ridge incident was reported to have left nine people dead, including the suspect. - Psychologists and officials from the 9-8-8 service said feelings of shock and fear are normal and that returning to routine and social support can help restore safety. Summary: The remarks draw a connection between long-term recovery after an earlier school attack and the national reaction to the recent Tumbler Ridge tragedy, highlighting widespread feelings of unease and the role of routine and connection in recovery. Undetermined at this time.