Mom of Idaho murder victim Ethan Chapin opens up about life without him

Stacy Chapin, mother of Ethan Chapin, one of the four students who was killed in the gruesome attack at the University of Idaho, speaks exclusively to TODAY about keeping her son's memory alive through a scholarship foundation, a new children's book and by connecting with those who knew him. She also opens up about the decision to not attend the trial and reveals her new tattoo: a note in Ethan's handwriting.

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[rebekkad.]

No wonder Ethan was such an amazing boy. He had amazing parents. God bless this family.

[ashlynp]

As a triplet, Ethan’s death has really affected me. Few people can understand the bond between siblings like that and I just can’t fathom the pain his siblings are feeling. Prayers for his family

[LoveandButter]

This mother is quite seriously an inspiration for how to move forward, how to live. Wow. I don't know that I could do this if I were in her shoes. She is something. What a family.

[lsapower]

No family is perfect, and tragedy can strike anyone. But it's incredible to see the emotional health and intelligence Stacy Chapin displays as she and her family process the loss of Ethan. It shows that when bad things happen — and they will — it's really about how you handle it.

[isaacsmom]

I've lost 2 children. Chavie was 14 and Isaac was 23, and 3 pregnancies. there is no pain like losing a child. It lives with you constantly. there is no choice but to go on and make the best of the rest of your life.

[VerifiedVegan]

The strength of this mother is amazing! So loving and unselfish to focus on the lives of her surviving children!

[kianabui]

This mother's strength is truly amazing. No wonder Ethan was such a great young man, he learned from his momma.

[MisterKelisi]

I burst crying as soon as the mom showed that tattoo of Ethan’s hand writing. Lord help these families heal.

[FBIbarbiee]

Stacey is the epitome of strength and class. I admire her, she’s lovely and creating such a beautiful legacy in Ethan’s name. ❤

[namastemcl]

My 33 year old son Greg passed away last November from ALS. Ethan’s Mom is correct talking about your child especially sharing memories has helped us move through each day and face our grief.

[Hojiii]

This family has really leaned into their grief in a graceful and truly heroic way.

[therealdeal]

Oh my God, when she showed her tattoo on her arm of Ethan's writing I burst out crying. A lovely woman dealing with tragedy with great dignity and strength to be there for her surviving children and her husband.

[GG-kuep]

I am Moroccan and I live in Bahrain, I have been so touched by this story and I am in awe of this mom’s strength and courage🤍Ethan and his 3 friends were very special

[HanHanMC]

She could be a motivational speaker. She could teach a work shop on parenting. I think she’s incredible. What a role model for mothers and everyone really. Don’t dwell on things outside of your control.

[heatherfox]

They are the perfect example of how a family should be! I have the utmost respect for The Chapin family. I love how they choose to direct their energy towards family and not giving one moments attention to Bryan Kohberger.

[Lala-]

What an amazing mother, father and siblings Ethan has.

[helenmallory]

WHAT AN AMAZING Bless Ethan and his Family and Friends My heart and Prayers go with them all ..

[erinstaack]

The tattoo got me. This poor family, my heart aches for them and anyone that has lost their world like they have.

[Magencory]

His Mother is such a natural! So able to just get in front of the camera and exclaim how amazing and sweet her boy was and is! Amazing job, Mama 🫶🏼

[simonegarciatsu]

Just to be completely honest ; thank god she still has other children who are alive. Not saying it hurts any less but the parent I worry about the most is Maddie’s father. She was his only child. I’ve seen interviews with him & it kills me how broken he is now. He lived for his only daughter. I literally can’t imagine the pain it’s so awful 😢