TUCSON, Ariz. (AP) — The harrowing first week is over. Now as the national focus drifts away and a quietness returns to this laid-back college city, the profound pain is settling in as victims of last weekend's shooting spree — and their tight-knit community — enter the toughest part of their healing process.
"I happened to get hit by bullets and all of you, especially those who were there, you got wounded too," said Giffords' aide Pam Simon, 63, who was shot twice, as she met with survivors, witnesses and community members.
The months to come will determine the lasting impact of those wounds, not only for the residents of Tucson but the country itself. Experts agree that there are many keys to solace and recovery, but that all take time.
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