For anyone who did not have the privledge of knowing my dad, he is described by most as one of a kind. The stories shared by his family and friends are endless and have truly inspired me to be half the person he was. His impact on everyone's life is truly everlasting. When talking to my cousin the other night, she explained that when he passed away, no one knew who to call. Her first instinct was to call Uncle Dennis, everyone's go-to guy, but that simply was not an option anymore. She describes him as having his wings while he was on earth rather than gaining them in heaven. Unfortunately, those earthly wings became our guardian angel wings in 2001. My mom said, "I knew in my heart there was no way he was coming out. He would have been helping others." Perhaps she knew he wasn't coming home because he and his partner, Seth Morris, had already carried a pregnant woman out of the World Trade Center in the 1993 bombing. The two escaped the building as heroes in 1993, but were not as fortunate in 2001.

As the 17th anniversary of my dad's death approaches and I prepare to leave for college again, his absence in my life becomes more painful. But this unimaginable pain has been overcome by the outpour of strength, love, and encouragement in my life. I am beyond grateful for everyone who has stood by my side on this journey. It most definitely has not been an easy one. The first three Huntington 9/11 Heroes Runs have overwhelmed me. It is incredible to see the entire community come together to celebrate the lives of our loved ones. At last year's run, I took a minute to look around and take in everything going on around me. It was then that I realized: "Life is about surrounding yourself with people who love and support you, people who make the hardest days bearable."

I am so excited to be a part of the run this year in North Carolina, my home away from home. 

Please join us in the second annual North Carolina 9/11 Heroes Run. Whether you run, walk, volunteer, or donate, your support is very appreciated.