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American Morning

Levy Family Anxiously Awaits Chandra's Return

Aired July 19, 2001 - 11:36   ET

THIS IS A RUSH TRANSCRIPT. THIS COPY MAY NOT BE IN ITS FINAL FORM AND MAY BE UPDATED.

THIS IS A RUSH TRANSCRIPT. THIS COPY MAY NOT BE IN ITS FINAL FORM AND MAY BE UPDATED.
DARYN KAGAN, CNN ANCHOR: An update now on the Chandra Levy case: Washington police recruits are being bused to several areas in the search for the missing Washington intern. The case has now been transferred to an FBI unit that handles long-term investigations. Of the FBI's involvement, D.C. police (sic) Charles Ramsey says his department has a good relationship with the agency. He also says the FBI can do whatever it needs to with the case.

And as that search goes on, it's a waiting game for those praying for Chandra Levy's return in her hometown.

Our Rusty Dornin has more now from Modesto, California.

(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)

RUSTY DORNIN, CNN CORRESPONDENT (voice-over): As searchers beat the brush along pathways and swamps in Washington, D.C., every tennis shoe that turns up gives pause to Chandra Levy's parents in Modesto, California.

ROBERT LEVY, CHANDRA'S FATHER: It's upsetting, because they find things. You know, you don't know. You just worry. You know, anticipate what they're going to find.

DORNIN: Anticipation that makes for an emotional roller coaster.

SUSAN LEVY. CHANDRA'S MOTHER: I have fear, I'm scared, anxiety. I'm a mother. I'm really in pain a lot. I just want my daughter home. I want her home soon, alive. We grieve; sometimes we laugh a little bit, but most of the time we're in a state of anxiety and deep depression.

DORNIN: Most mornings Chandra's father takes a walk, sometimes alone, sometimes with friends. Up until a few days ago, Susan Levy, too, would pound the pavement, seeking solace in all that was once normal.

Between watching and waiting, there's always the mundane, bits of life that are tough to ignore.

S. LEVY: Who wants to help me with the garbage?

DORNIN: This is an old-fashioned neighborhood, where neighbors are often good friends. The Levy's street is marked with yellow ribbons. Every day brings those bearing gifts.

Up until a few days ago, Susan Levy often spoke with reporters. Now her husband does the talking: a few words before he goes to work as an oncologist, where he helps others cope with their pain.

R. LEVY: My, you know, patients and staff would concentrate on that. But, you know, all of my patients, they're supportive. But it's always something on my mind about my daughter, the family.

DORNIN (on camera): The more time that passes, the tougher the Levys say it is to put on a brave face. Still hopeful, they are dealing with the agonizing uncertainty one day at a time.

Rusty Dornin, CNN, Modesto, California.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

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