You never really know how strong you are until you are put to the test. Almost four years ago, I was put to that test. It has been nearly three years since I boarded a plane to start my freshman year at the University of Tampa. While I was on my way to Tampa, my best friend and my younger sister, Allie, was being med-flighted to Boston Medical Center. It was that same day that she eventually succumbed to the injuries she obtained after being struck by a car while crossing the street in our hometown. She was only 15.
Allie was much more than just my younger sister. She was a loyal friend to all, a daughter, a cousin, my best friend and the most beautiful girl I have ever known. She had a contagious smile, one that could literally light up a room, and piercing blue eyes that made it impossible to stay mad at her for too long. Allie had a passion for life and it showed in everything that she did. Before the accident she was excited to embark on the new and exciting milestones that her sophomore year had in store for her. She was finally getting her braces off, trying out for the varsity soccer team, and most importantly attempt to receive her driver’s license. Unfortunately Allie was never able to pass those highly anticipated milestones and so many more. We miss her everyday.
In each person I have met at UNH during my past four years here I can always see in them some of the same qualities that Allie had. Not a year has gone by that I have not received some type of support from a member of the UNH community. It is the support of these special people that make my sisters annual memorial race so much more memorable to my family and I. Every year we are still baffled by the overwhelming support shown by not only friends but strangers of the UNH community.
The Black Cat Race is a 10 and 20-mile annual race that started just three years ago. In addition to the individual races there is a relay option that is dedicated to my sister. This relay option is entitled “Allie’s Relay” and every year a portion of race proceeds are donated to The Allie Castner Scholarship Foundation. The Scholarship is awarded each year to a specific and deserving graduating senior from my hometown of Marblehead, Massachusetts who embodies the same spirit of love and kindness that Allie held. The scholarship foundation is not only a way for my family to commemorate Allie’s life but it is also a unique way in which Allie can keep doing what she always did-giving back to those who are in need.
The first year of the race there were over 700 runners, last year there were over 800, and this past Saturday there were over 1000 runners! The growth in participants is something to celebrate in itself! Every year over 100 UNH students have given up their weekend plans and volunteered at my sisters race, which for me is a true testament of the love and support the UNH community has given me. This year was no exception.
With the help of my Alpha Phi sisters, the sisters of Chi Omega and Alpha Chi Omega, as well as the brothers in Pi Kappa Alpha and Sigma Chi we were able to make this years race a huge success.
When my strength was put to the test on that awful night almost four years ago, I would have never thought I would be where I am today. It is because of the support I continue to receive that I am able to live my life and carry Allie’s spirit with me always. Words will never be able to express how truly grateful I am for everything the special people of UNH have done for me. In the spirit of Allie, keep smiling, laughing, and giving, and always remember to slow down because life is far too precious.
Authored by: Lia Castner