CYPRESS, Texas – A local nurse remains in critical condition at the hospital after being shot in the head by a patient.
Kasondra Daniels, 47, continues to suffer from severe brain swelling but is conscious and "asks for prayer," according to her daughter, who spoke with KPRC 2 on the phone on Thursday.
On Wednesday, a cancer patient named John Howell accidentally shot Daniels and his son before ending his own life.
Howell had learned his illness was terminal.
He also shot and killed his wife, who was very sick, as well.
"Oftentimes when people are diagnosed with a serious illness, cancer, AIDS, something like that, the first thought that goes through their minds is 'I'm going to die," said Teresa Doyle, who is a psychotherapist in Houston and a cancer survivor herself. "The feelings of sadness, loss, hopelessness, all of those can be present."
KPRC 2 spoke to John Howell's son, Scott, on Wednesday, who said his father acted "out of mercy."
"It was definitely out of mercy, they were both suffering horribly. Mom said, 'Just shoot me,' multiple times a day," he said.
Meanwhile, Daniels' daughter told KPRC 2 the family remains hopeful she will recover from her injuries.
"She loves taking care of other people," said her daughter. "She is willing to help whoever she can."
Daniels' daughter said her mother has worked as a nurse for 20 years and is currently working for The Heights of Tomball Rehabilitation & Nursing Center.
A spokesperson for the center sent the following statement to KPRC 2:
"We are deeply saddened by this tragic family situation. Most especially our thoughts and prayers continue for everyone affected and their loved ones, including one of our own team members, all of whom remain in our special prayers."
Teresa Doyle is a volunteer for CanCare, an organization that provides support and resources to cancer patients. For more information, visit http://www.cancare.org/default.asp.