In a heart-wrenching case that shocked the nation, Kristel Candelario has been sentenced to life in prison for the death of her 16-month-old daughter, Jailyn. Candelario, who left her toddler alone for more than a week while she went on vacation, blamed her mental problems for the decision to abandon her daughter.

Candelario spoke with Noticias Telemundo from prison in Cleveland, Ohio, where she is currently serving her sentence. Her attorneys are preparing to appeal her case, aiming for the court to consider her mental state as a factor.

When questioned about how she could leave her baby unattended for such a long period of time, Candelario stated, "The answer is a bit difficult for the rest of the world to understand... I was experiencing emotional stress." She also mentioned having relationship issues with Jailyn's father.

Despite the tragic circumstances, Candelario insisted that her daughters have always been her world. She maintained that Jailyn is always in her heart and with her wherever she goes.

Regarding the reasons for her ill-fated trip to Detroit and Puerto Rico, Candelario revealed that it was a decision made months in advance, following a two-month hospitalization for mental health issues. She mentioned being hospitalized due to emotional and mental problems, including a suicide attempt.

During the interview, Candelario absolved her ex-partner of any blame, stating that she had informed him that Jailyn would be under the care of her mother during the trip. She denied purchasing the tickets with the intention of abandoning her daughter, emphasizing that it was an impulsive decision driven by her mental state.

Candelario recounted feeling distracted and angry during the trip, though she never mentioned her daughter's situation to those around her. In a brief moment of consideration, she thought about contacting a family member or neighbor to check on Jailyn but ultimately did not follow through, acknowledging that it was her mistake.

Her parents were unaware of her trip and abandonment of Jailyn, believing she was at home or with her daughter somewhere else. Candelario's other daughter, who was 7 years old at the time, was traveling with her parents.

Tragically, upon her return, Candelario discovered Jailyn unresponsive and immediately contacted the police. The child was found in a playpen surrounded by filth and extremely dehydrated, having lost a significant amount of weight during her mother's absence.

During the court proceedings, Candelario's attorney highlighted that while her behavior cannot be excused, she had a history of self-harm and had abruptly stopped taking prescribed medication, which affected her clarity of thought and decision-making abilities.

Cuyahoga County Common Pleas Judge Brendan Sheehan, in handing down the sentence, described Candelario's actions as the "ultimate act of betrayal," leaving her baby terrified and alone.

The case serves as a painful reminder of the importance of understanding and addressing mental health issues, particularly within the context of parenthood.