THOUSAND OAKS, California – The holiday season is a time for families to come together and count their blessings. For Marc Orfanos, this time of year has taken on a whole new meaning since his son, Telemachus Orfanos, survived the Las Vegas mass shooting in 2017. However, tragedy struck again in their hometown of Thousand Oaks, California, when Telemachus fell victim to another senseless act of gun violence.
The Orfanos family received a devastating phone call in the early hours of November 8, 2018, informing them of a mass shooting at the Borderline Bar and Grill, a place their son frequented. As they rushed to the scene, hoping for the best, their worst fears were confirmed when they learned that Telemachus was among the victims.
The pain of losing their son in such a horrific manner has left a lasting impact on the Orfanos family. As they navigate through their grief, they have come to realize that the passage of time does not heal all wounds. Instead, they have been confronted with the harsh reality of a society that seems to accept the ongoing epidemic of gun violence, despite the devastating toll it takes on families across the country.
In the years since their son’s tragic death, the Orfanos family has been outspoken about the need for meaningful action to address gun violence. They have witnessed a disturbing normalization of mass shootings and a lack of meaningful efforts to prevent future tragedies. The recurring cycle of violence has only served to deepen their anguish and strengthen their resolve to advocate for change.
As they continue to grapple with their loss, the Orfanos family remains committed to raising awareness about the human cost of gun violence. They hope that by sharing their story, they can inspire others to join the fight for a safer and more compassionate society.
Thousand Oaks, California has become a tragic symbol of the devastating impact of gun violence, and the Orfanos family’s heartbreaking experience serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for action to prevent further loss of life. As they reflect on the upcoming holiday season and the years to come, they carry with them the unshakable determination to honor their son’s memory by advocating for meaningful change.