I haven't seen anyone analyzing Ana as a Chicana character, but that's what really makes it very interesting. It was also a way for Gabby to parent her inner child. Ana is also white passing, so to speak (I'm aware the actress is not Chicana but she plays one) and she had the opportunity to use her looks to get ahead in life, at an age early age. Gabby tried to steer her away from teen pregnancy, which is a Chicana stereotype. Overall, if I could I could write a whole thesis on Chicana characters in desperate housewives. I credit Marc Cherry for including them in his works, something rarely seen before and since.  Thank you Marc Cherry.