It's a run, which was created by Leo's family, to honor both him and his girlfriend, Morgan. We lost them on July 18, 2013 to a motorcycle accident.
We've passed the two-year mark of that night. All of those who loved them are at different stages with our grief.
One thing that is the same, though, and it's the way we embrace the positivity the Alfano's & McKinnon's continue to show in the aftermath of the night that forever changed their families.
For the second year, I helped with the registration with Sherry Blair. Each with our own connections to the Alfano's, we feel honored and grateful to be able to volunteer for this special day. As we greeted and welcomed all the participants, some returning and some there for the first time, we remarked to each other how positive the atmosphere was. It's really hard to put into words.
A day that can't help but remind me of the loss I feel, is also a day that I have come to look so forward to...it's truly the definition of bittersweet.
It's a day I find myself both laughing and crying. One emotional extreme to another. Despite that roller-coaster, I wouldn't miss it for anything.
I watched my friend, Tonia, talking and hugging so many, if not all, of those in the crowd during the day. She seemed to know everyone. So much like Leo. He was his mother's son, for sure. And I could almost imagine him in the midst of it. It was a day he would have LOVED...being with his family and friends...around motorcycles...many of his favorite things in one place.
I was one of seven women riding in Tonia's SUV, from bar to bar, enjoying the conversation and laughter immensely. It was what we all needed. Some of these women I knew before but some I met after. I feel so fortunate that our paths have crossed. Each time I am with them, I feel healing. I feel acceptance. I feel friendship. It's easy to be together and I am so grateful for what they bring to my life.
From my seat in the middle of the SUV, I had a clear view of Leo's picture on Tonia's dash. That beautiful smiling face staring back at me and touching my heart. It wasn't a sadness I felt, but rather a peace that he was with us...and that he was incredibly proud...of his mom...of his family...of Morgan's family...for creating a day so many could enjoy. He would have approved, no doubt.
Positivity out of the pain.
A fundraiser to benefit ABATE. A group which promotes motorcycle safety.
What a selfless gesture to help others even when your pain is unbearable.
Life moves on and the days keep coming. We, as participants, leave days like yesterday and go back to all that is familiar to us. Go back to those we love. Go back to routines. Go back to life the way we know it.
The Alfano's and McKinnon's left yesterday going back to their new reality, thrust upon them two years ago, without their children.
I can't help but watch them, from the crowd, and marvel at their ability to show us all the benefit of being positive.
I don't know if I could do it.
Positivity out of the pain.
What have I learned?
Whatever you are facing, someone is always facing more. Keeping that fact in perspective is what should propel you forward. Take notice of how others handle their losses, their adversity, their challenges and follow their lead. If they can remain positive, you can, too.
I can't thank these families enough for the generosity they show to those of us around them.
As parents, we strive to be positive examples and role models to our children. The Alfano's and the McKinnon's continue to show, not only their children but all of us, how living a life which makes positivity out of pain is the most selfless life one could ever hope to live.
Seeing Sam, with Filie on the back of his motorcycle, was the best sight I saw all day. Smiles on their faces. Leo in their hearts.
It is what it is.
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It is what it is.
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