Gabrielle Giffords Returns to Tucson One Year After Shooting

It’s been once year since the shooting in Tucson, Arizona that killed six people, injured 13 others, and left United States Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords in critical condition. Giffords traveled back to the spot of the shooting today to meet with other survivors, to reflect, and to help each other move forward.

Daniel Hernandez, an intern at Giffords’ office, said:

“I’m looking forward to seeing her. I think it’s going to be a very cathartic weekend for all of us here in Tucson to see her in her hometown.”

Giffords met with people in Arizona and visited the spot where the shooting occurred one year ago. Her husband, Mark Kelly, wrote on Twitter:

“Gabby just visited the Safeway for the 1st time since 1/8/11…It’s been a tough year, but we’re lucky to have so many people standing w/us.”

Giffords has come a long way since her medically induced coma, but the congresswoman is still recovering from her injuries. Doctor’s have called Giffords recovery miraculous. She has regained the ability to walk and talk and in a few months she will decide if she’s ready to return to run for re-election. Debbie Wasserman Shultz, a close friend, said:

“She’s making a lot of progress. She’s doing great. She still has a long way to go.”

Here’s a video from last year about Gifford’s incredible recovery.

The IndyStar reports that Arizona churches rang their bells at 10:11 this morning, the exact time one year ago that Jared Lee Loughner opened fire into the crowd.

The National Post reports that Giffords and her husband, former astronaut Mark Kelly, are expected to join thousands at a candlelight vigil tonight at the University of Arizona. Giffords will spend the evening reflecting on the shooting while Kelly is scheduled to speak.