SAN DIEGO -- Today marks the second anniversary of one of the most gripping searches and subsequent murder trials in San Diego history. It was the kidnapping and murder of Danielle van Dam.

DANIELLE VAN DAM 1994-2002 DISCUSS: Share Your Thoughts About The Case

Brenda van Dam, Danielle's mother, said she does not want to run away from her grief, which is why she agreed to speak to the Escondido Kiwanis Club last week. She spoke about Danielle, (pictured, left), who was kidnapped from her bedroom two years ago today.

The 7-year-old was missing for almost a month. Over 2,500 volunteers searched San Diego County. The search expanded to the desert and into Mexico.

Finally, Danielle's body was found under a tree in East County.

David Westerfield, (pictured, right), van Dam's neighbor, was tried and convicted of kidnapping and murdering Danielle van Dam. He was sentenced to death.

The tragedy of Danielle van Dam touched many lives of people all over the world.

"I could feel my body getting warm. I could feel the stress taking over me and that part of it is very hard. But, after I told my story, I get comforted by people I don't know and that makes me feel so much better," Brenda van Dam said.

Brenda van Dam is working on legislation that would provide better protection and identification measures for young crime victims. She is also finding ways to educate parents and children about outside dangers.

"I never in my life thought I needed to teach my children that. I taught them about strangers and their private parts but never thought I'd have to teach her how to survive. So, I think all children need to know that," Brenda van Dam said.

The van Dams plan to spend some time together Monday, privately, at a spot Danielle loved -- La Jolla Shores.