here's abc's kyra phillips. >> reporter: it's a moment 18 years in the making. >> so excited about itexcited about school probably for the first time in his life. >> reporter: heading off to college. >> 18, you know, he had everything in front of him. >> reporter: dreams and destinies about to be defined. >> he just was very ambitious. >> reporter: for the parents, saying good-bye is always so bittersweet. >> when we were leaving him at lsu that day, he was so happy. >> reporter: but for these four mothers, those emotional farewells would be their last. >> when you look at that photo now what goes through your mind? >> i almost didn't take that picture. because, you know, i wanted to live in the moment. >> reporter: a moment ray ann groover, evelyn piazza, cat lien wyant, and carol king will never experience with their boys again. >> what's the one thing you miss the most about tim? >> just -- everything. i miss everything. >> reporter: they tell us they are bonded by fraternity hazing and heartbreak. >> you shouldn't go off to college and not come home 29 days later. >> reporter: the