Some stories are so painful that they stay with you. The case of Lucy Letby is one of those stories. Many people felt heartbreak for the families she hurt.

Letby, 33, was found guilty of killing seven babies and trying to kill six more. She was given a whole life sentence, the strongest punishment in the UK. But on the day she was sentenced, she refused to come to court.

The judge still spoke, even though she wasn’t there. He said her actions were planned and cruel. He told the families that she broke the trust every parent places in a nurse caring for their newborn.

One mother said Letby’s refusal to face them was a “final act of cowardice.” She said that when Letby testified, her kind act disappeared, and her true nature showed. That moment helped families feel that justice was finally done.

Her refusal has led leaders to push for a new law. They want criminals to be required to attend their sentencing so families can look them in the eye. Many people agree this change is important.

As the families continue to heal, their strength is clear. Their love for their babies will always matter more than anything Letby ever did.