'Blossom Star' Jenna Von Oy Pens Letter To Newtown Shooting Victims

Jenna Von Oy Pens Letter To Newtown Following Hometown Tragedy

In wake of the horrible tragedy that occurred in Newtown, CT this past week, a lot of well wishes have been sent their way. Actress Jenna Von Oy, a Newtown native, is the latest to show her sympathy for the lives lost.

Jenna—known for her roles on Blossom and The Parkers—wrote a touching letter for People Magazine, where she goes into detail about her personal connection to the town and feelings of sorrow.

Read an excerpt from the letter below:

"My family still lives in Newtown and, in my heart of hearts, I still consider myself one of its residents. My attachment is deep-rooted. We are mourning the loss of some of our own this week, and it is a sobering reminder that violence does not discriminate. It can hit close to home.
I am fiercely proud to say I was born and raised in Newtown. It is where I was brought home from the hospital, attended my first day of kindergarten, learned to ride my bike and climbed my first tree.
As I watched President Obama's press conference, I sobbed as he mentioned that the children who died had their whole lives ahead of them: graduations, weddings, having children of their own. I have celebrated every one of those milestones in Newtown.
I graduated from Newtown High School, got married two years ago in a bed and breakfast on its Main Street, and recently had my daughter christened at St. Rose, where the vigil was held Friday evening. Newtown is the foundation of my history and it holds a very special place in my heart.
It is nearly impossible to unscramble my thoughts and put them to paper at a time like this, but I wanted to express my love and support for the town that has given me so many wonderful memories.
I hope my intent isn't misunderstood here; this is not about me. This is about a peaceful, beautiful, wonderful place I've called home since my childhood; I am feeling very protective of it after Friday's crisis. This is about the people who are left to pick up the pieces after an unfathomable hardship.
I grieve for the parents who lost their beautiful, innocent babies; some of them were friends from high school. My heart hurts for the families who have to explain this loss to the frightened children they brought home."