A message from John and Kori, Cati’s Parents

As parents who are part of the drowning prevention community, our hearts are broken for the families affected by the recent catastrophic floods in Texas. We grieve for those who have lost loved ones, and for all who have been forced from their homes. In this time of crisis, we are deeply grateful for the first responders and everyday heroes who have stepped forward with courage and compassion. Each tragic story reopens the pain of losing our six year old daughter, Cati Delapeña, who drowned in 2019 while under the supervision of a summer camp in Texas.

After Cati’s passing, we founded Live Like Cati, a nonprofit dedicated to ensuring that the organizations we trust with our children prioritize water safety. Our mission is rooted in prevention – because no parent should have to endure the loss of a child to a preventable drowning.

Though the recent drownings were due to sudden, unexpected flooding, these events shed light on the need for greater preparedness and water safety in summer camps – particularly those near open water. We anticipate the investigations will lead to new safety standards, and we are committed to being part of the solution . Please visit our Bill Tracker Tab for current updates.