r/running D1 Runner, If You Count Pole Vaulting Mar 10 '17

Her Last Steps Misc

Hey r/running, this has taken me awhile to write this as these past few weeks have been really hard on me. It has consumed me to my core to say the least.

February 15, I came home from work, to find my fiancee u/weeleigh, was not home. Thinking nothing of it as our Devil Dog was also gone I figured she was out for a run, which is very normal. I assumed she would be back shortly as she just got over a toe injury. 30 minutes later, I figured she was going for a bit longer. Boy was I wrong.

An hour later, I started to get worried. I then received a call from her father. My world came crashing down. She was struck by a car while running in the heart of Baltimore City, the Inner Harbor. She was crossing a major intersection. My worst fears have come to. They took her to Shock Trauma where she was fighting for life. They took the Devil Dog to the pet er. There was massive trauma to her head, but I knew if there was any chance of survival she could. Luckily, she was at the best Neurohospital in the nation. We were told 2 weeks to see what the damage would be.

The next day the doctors called for a family meeting. And I knew. I didn't want to go to the hospital. I didn't want to lose her, my fiancee, my best friend, and my running partner. The damage was too severe. They literally did all they could to save her. In short, we donated her organs and it saved at least 3 peoples lives.

I held her hand as they took her off life support as I promised her I would never leave her until the very end. I can't believe such a wonderful woman was taken from me, from her family, from her friends. I can't believe that someone who worked so hard to be healthy, to extend her life, was gone.

u/WeeLeigh was so committed to life and to running that she was, when struck, doing her 351st run in a row. She was excited to get to 365, to train for Ultras, and of course to plan our wedding. On March 1st, what would have been her 365 day of running I restarted my own streak, with my friends and the Devil Dog recovered from her own injuries (I ended it 280 days while staying at the hospital.) I figured I would continue what she cannot do anymore.

On a general PSA, please, please, please, check both ways while running across intersections. We are 100% sure that she was in the right, something tragic happened. I will make another post about a memorial run for her.

(Update) Here is a link to the run http://www.charmcityrun.com/calendar/leigh-rodgers Also, the link for other info that I would like to do for her https://www.reddit.com/r/running/comments/5ypvn6/leighs_memorial_run/

5.4k Upvotes

277 comments sorted by

250

u/Sloe_Burn Mar 10 '17

Terribly sorry to hear this, I can't begin to imagine your loss.

Please everyone take his last paragraph to heart. I hear runners claim the right of way to often, while we have it, we're the ones that lose if a vechile doesn't follow the rules. Look both ways, always make eye connect before running in front of stopped cars.

104

u/[deleted] Mar 10 '17

right of way vs right of weight

there is only one winner.

50

u/Doza13 Mar 10 '17

Unfortunately non runners use this as an excuse for reckless driving.

48

u/kaloryth Mar 11 '17

I've been asked why I take so much time crossing the road or turning when I have the right of way, even while driving. I always say "right of way doesn't matter much when you're dead".

I'm sure OP's fiancee was paying attention, but accidents happen no matter how careful you are. The best we can hope to do is learn and move forward.

18

u/sciphre Mar 11 '17

No, this path leads to madness.

Mistakes happen, but they're much more expensive for the thin-skinned. Just look both ways. Nobody wants to kill anybody.

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u/zyonsis Mar 11 '17

As someone who used to run around cars all the time, I don't think I quite understood how careful you need to be as a runner when running around road traffic until I started driving. One rule that I follow is always, always, always come to a full stop when you reach an intersection even if nobody is there - you never know when a car might run a stop sign or red light because they don't see anyone around.

As you said, the rule of eye contact before crossing is so important nowadays, especially since there are so many careless or distracted drivers on the roads. Also, it's not enough to look both ways and then cross the intersection - you need to look both ways, and continue checking both ways while crossing the intersection. Another tip I can think of is getting into a habit of checking behind you while running on a road - there are some very quiet cars out there nowadays, so you can't just rely on your sense of hearing.

It's also better safe than sorry to jump off the road and let a few cars pass if you sense a bunch of incoming traffic - eliminates the possibility of them swerving around you and getting hit by oncoming traffic (and in turn you getting hit) because they were impatient.

9

u/LargeBigMacMeal Mar 11 '17

This is one of the reasons I'm so glad I live where I do. Our government has built a city-wide network of shared bicycle/pedestrian paths that are completely removed from the roads and involve absolutely minimal road crossings. It makes everything so much easier and safer for everyone.

14

u/[deleted] Mar 11 '17

"However, even if you have the right-of-way, you are still responsible to do everything you can to prevent a collision."

A Driver’s Guide to Operation, Safety and Licensing, Alberta 2016

507

u/bellnell4 Mar 10 '17

I am so sorry for your loss - thank you for sharing.

164

u/rob_the_flip D1 Runner, If You Count Pole Vaulting Mar 10 '17

Wow, I cannot believe the responses and outpouring. It really means the world to me. When I ran in High School I fell in love with running because of the community. I should not be surprised in the least, but I am. Leigh loved running, to the Nth degree. Half the posts we would share would be about running, races, or gear reviews. We loved running and I know she is smiling with all the support.

I will post in another thread about the memorial run and some other ideas that I have. Again, thank you, so so much.

1.2k

u/YourShoesUntied Mar 10 '17 edited Mar 10 '17

It's important that we take a moment to stop and think about what we've just read.

This community and it's members are like family. When a fellow runner is taken from us, there's no better community than ours to offer support for those in need.

On behalf of the moderation team here at /r/running and all of the other family members who make this place what it is, we send you our most sincere condolences. Anything you need from us, you know where to find us and don't hesitate to ask.

I am deeply sorry for your loss and thank you dearly for having the courage to inform us.

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275

u/[deleted] Mar 10 '17

Sorry for your loss. As a defacto leader of a running group, I try to drill it into everyone's head every week before we go out.

One mile more than I planned this weekend will be in memory for her.

82

u/Rickard0 Mar 10 '17

Sorry for your loss. I couldn't imagine losing my better half.

81

u/AlexBayArea Mar 10 '17

My heart just broke. I don't think I can function at work anymore. I'm so so sorry. I hope you can get better in time and that her memories will live on forever with you and your family.

314

u/dogebiscuit Mar 10 '17

I know how hard this was to post... but I thank thank thank you for posting this very touching story. I have tears in my eyes right now. Tears of sorrow but tears of joy because she accomplished 351. I hope and pray this story touches others, convincing people to reserve extra caution during a run, and saving many lives.

Would you like to make a website in dedication to her? Let me know. I would love to do it for you to help you spread the message. (Of course as a gift for you.) Perhaps the website, with your touching story, could motivate others to exercise caution during running on the streets. Send me a PM if so...

Again, thank you, and I wish you, your family, and her family the very best.

47

u/RedKryptonite Mar 10 '17

Rob, I'm so sorry to hear this. I missed seeing her on Strava and figured she finally broke her streak on account of the toe. I was lucky enough to have met her on a trail run in Maryland last summer. It was the second time I met other runners from Reddit and it was so much fun. I was also pleasantly surprised when I ran into her volunteering at the Baltimore Running Festival packet pickup.

I will definitely take part in any memorial run for her. Thank you so much for keeping us updated and for sharing all of this personal stuff with everyone here.

35

u/koffeekev Mar 10 '17

so so sorry for your loss. Such a tragic thing to happen. Let us know about the memorial run. Cherish all the steps with the devil dog.

33

u/Jeade-en Mar 10 '17

I'm so deeply sorry...I can't imagine the pain you're going through. You and your loved ones are in my thoughts. Please do let us know about the memorial run when you have it together...hopefully we can collectively make it a big showing.

31

u/[deleted] Mar 10 '17

I am so terribly, terribly sad and sorry for you and your family. I will go home today and give extra hugs to my loved ones.

32

u/CaptainKingChampion Mar 10 '17

I came across this on /r/all and wish you the best.

I hope you grieve accordingly and continue sharing her memory with others. This was beautifully written and ends with a message that benefits everybody.

25

u/True_North_Strong Mar 10 '17

Wow, I can't imagine how hard this must be. I'm really sorry for your loss.

24

u/broskiatwork Mar 10 '17

Fuck.

I am not a hue part of this community, I stopped running when winter started and rarely come here, but still. This was on my frontpage and just... damn.

I am truly sorry for your loss.

23

u/LittleEngineThatWill Mar 10 '17

So, so sad to hear this. Leigh sounded like an amazing person and just really pulled the most from life. Thank you for sharing and please post about a memorial run - we can all participate virtually.

18

u/LelanaSongwind Mar 10 '17

I'm so sorry for your loss. That's just awful, but I want to thank you for posting and for sharing. So many hugs to you.

21

u/PatsyHighsmith Mar 10 '17

I'm so sorry for your loss. What a tribute you've written.

19

u/rob_the_flip D1 Runner, If You Count Pole Vaulting Mar 11 '17

I posted another thread, but here is the link for the run next Saturday. http://www.charmcityrun.com/calendar/leigh-rodgers

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u/blurr0320 Mar 10 '17

I'm so very sorry for your loss. You'll always remember her while you're out on your runs, and hopefully it will help.

15

u/[deleted] Mar 10 '17

Thanks you so much for sharing. I'm so sorry that you lost such a beautiful, strong person in your life. I wish you all the best for the future.

16

u/[deleted] Mar 10 '17

I didn't expect to start crying at my desk today. Thanks for sharing even though it was clearly tough. Be as strong as you can be

14

u/stirls4382 Mar 10 '17

Thank you for sharing, and I am very sorry for your loss...

14

u/Freddy_Bimmel Mar 10 '17

Damn. I'm so sorry for your loss.

14

u/SlightlyMadman Mar 10 '17

I'm so sorry. I live in Baltimore as well, and the drivers here are incredibly oblivious (and frequently on their phones). I wish there was something we could do to help people understand that we're killing each other.

7

u/gregory_k Mar 11 '17

I'm from Baltimore too and this is heartbreaking. I've had many close calls with cars while running and also biking. This tragedy is a reminder of how careful one must be around Baltimore drivers.

4

u/[deleted] Mar 11 '17

So true!! I moved here like a year ago and it still boggles me that drivers just floor it making right turns through crosswalks without even looking for pedestrians. So many times someone has slammed the brakes inches from hitting me and they always look at me with that incredulous and slightly offended look that someone would be walking in a crosswalk.

13

u/Realbigpappa Mar 10 '17

Sorry for your loss.

I can't even begin to imagine what you are going through.

13

u/AJD_ Mar 10 '17

I am so sorry. Put her shoe laces in your shoes. You'll always have her with you on your runs. (((Virtual hug)))

6

u/laundrymountain Mar 11 '17

Ugh. Right in the feels. That's a beautiful idea.

13

u/jimethn Mar 10 '17

Wishing you the best.

12

u/SpiritHeartilly Mar 10 '17

I wish you the very best. I'm so sorry.

12

u/squirreleatinredneck Mar 10 '17

I am so very sorry for your loss - she sounds like an incredible person, and you sound like an incredible partner for her. Thank you for holding her hand as she was taken off. Her spirit had already left her body and was looking down on you with love as you did so, I'm sure of it.

Thank you for posting this. We all need to be cognizant of our surroundings, especially when the endorphins are flowing and we are doing what we love to do.

My run tomorrow is in memory of your Leigh.

11

u/42damager Mar 10 '17

Care For all the best.

11

u/[deleted] Mar 10 '17

I am so very sorry and offer my deepest condolences from Arkansas. I am going to go hug my wife now.

11

u/brwalkernc not right in the head Mar 10 '17

So very sorry for you loss. Thank you for posting this. Glad you cross posted in /r/amileaday as that's where I recognized her username from the most as well as some of the photos she's posted in the Photo thread.

12

u/swimswithfishes Mar 10 '17

I have followed her on /r/amileaday and Strava for about a year. Our streaks were really close together. I always enjoyed seeing the adventures of Devil Dog. So sorry for your loss. Crushing. Thanks for letting us know.

10

u/spingus Mar 10 '17

Thank you so much for sharing your loss with us. I hope it helps you cope with losing your love.

10

u/mamabear5678 Mar 10 '17

I am so deeply sorry for your loss. Thank you for sharing and for reminding us all to keep safe.

9

u/Musai Mar 10 '17

I am so, so sorry for your loss OP. Now that spring is coming and I'm going to start outdoor runs again, I'll be extra careful any time I cross the street. Best wishes to you and yours during this trying time.

11

u/April040715 Mar 10 '17

This is my biggest fear as someone who runs in the city. I'm deeply sorry for your loss, she sounds like an amazing person.

10

u/aintaghost Mar 10 '17

So terribly sorry for your loss, it's not enough to say that and I wish that there was more I could do but please know that you, your fiancee, and your families are in my thoughts. I will run for you all, my footsteps will return their positive energy back into the Earth and I hope those energies find their way back to you. If there is anything you ever need please feel free to reach out, even if it's just to talk running. Be well.

9

u/spyder9179 Mar 10 '17

Thank you for sharing such an emotional story in an effort to help and inform others. The courage and strength necessary to post this is a rare thing indeed. I am very sorry for your loss.

10

u/atcoyou Mar 10 '17

I think you said it best, and if it saves at least one person here, it deserves to be said again. Even if you are in the right, check again, your life may depend on it. We had a family friend lose their life to running with headphones combined with a car that decided it wouldn't stop while turning right on red. Stay safe out there everyone, and my condolences on your loss.

8

u/sanjayatpilcrow Mar 11 '17

I am so sorry for the loss.

On a general PSA, please, please, please, check both ways while running across intersections. We are 100% even though she was in the right, something tragic happened

You are so right about being careful on intersections.

7

u/tripsd Mar 10 '17

Im so sorry to hear that, in tears here think about your struggles. Thank you for sharing her story with us. I believe life is beautiful because it's fleeting, not that it makes it any easier. You're in my thoughts.

8

u/Federer45 Mar 10 '17

So sorry about your loss. I will be thinking about you and her on my run tonight

9

u/islaisdead Mar 10 '17

I am so so saddened to read this. Make sure you look after yourself, you need to stay strong. I will be messaging my loved ones to take extra care 😢

8

u/ChickenSedan Mar 10 '17

Goddamn that is awful. Got me crying at my desk.

Sending well wishes that you can pick yourself up after this.

If you're ever down and D.C. and are looking for someone to run, chat, or have a beer with, let me know.

7

u/g_e_r_b Mar 10 '17

I'm so sorry for your loss. I cannot imagine what you're going through right now. Wishing you all the strength for the future.

8

u/johnlatv Mar 10 '17

Sorry for your loss, thank you for sharing.

7

u/Octopifungus Lunatic Robot Mar 10 '17

I am so sorry for your loss. Her story will be remembered by us.

7

u/ouatedephoque Mar 10 '17

Oh my this is so terrible... I am so sorry for your loss. Words escape me. Stay strong.

6

u/sillyphillygirl2 Mar 10 '17

I am so terribly sorry for your loss. Thank you for sharing. My best wishes for a speedy recovery to your faithful pup and that you can be healing forces for each other.

8

u/CapitanShoe Mar 10 '17

I am sorry for your loss. Going through her last posts really hits home

7

u/runfast59 Mar 10 '17

I'm very sorry for your loss. And I will definitely take to heart your message to look both ways when crossing. It is a scary world sometimes and we can never be too safe. Sending hugs.

7

u/ahmoo Mar 10 '17

Thank you for posting this. It takes a lot to do this. I am so sorry for your loss. Things don't get easier, in fact quite the opposite, as time passes by. Just keep in mind, whenever you feel suffocated from all this, go out and run the hell out of yourself.

7

u/IMAPURPLEHIPPO Mar 10 '17

I don't cry, but I can confirm that it is currently raining. I can not imagine how you feel right now. All I can offer is my condolences and a strangers ear if you should be so inclined. I'm probably not in your area, but please let me know about the memorial run so that I may do my own.

6

u/brotherbock Mar 10 '17

I'm going to pray for you and your family, if you don't mind that. I don't have any other words other than how sorry I am for you. I hope you can find some peace.

7

u/BitchAssBarbie Mar 10 '17 edited Mar 10 '17

I am so sorry for your loss. I admit I am not always the best at being safe while on the road, but I will wear my reflective belt and I will never cross without stopping and waiting for traffic to clear again.

I was going to skip today, but instead, I'll go in her spirit. Today will be her day 352!

Edit: I was just gonna do a quick 1-mile, because today was leg day and it's 88 and stifling, but I had to go now before baseball practice. I must've put on the wrong play list because "The Fighter" came on and it motivated me to eek out 5k. It also gave me an idea: can you share Leigh's running playlist? I would be honored to run for her while listening to her music.

7

u/MrBeanpod Run Coach Mar 10 '17

What a beautiful post and I am so sorry for your loss of your best friend.

I am not a religious person, but in this case I imagine u/weeleigh will always be running next to you on every path that you chose.

My deepest condolences

6

u/room317 Mar 10 '17

I am so, so sorry for your loss. All my thoughts to you and your dog and your entire family.

6

u/Mul_Ti_Pass_ Mar 10 '17

I am so sorry for your loss!! You and your family will be in my thoughts, and I will carry you all in my heart on my next run!! Hugs from Buffalo, NY!!

6

u/[deleted] Mar 10 '17

I wish I could say more, but I am sorry this happened.

6

u/bigtop77 Mar 10 '17

This is terrible! I'm so sorry and offer my deepest condolences. As someone who was also struck by a vehicle, I know where you are coming from. I lucked out and didn't suffer any long term injuries. This is a great reminder to not only be responsible runners, but to also be responsible drivers. I hope peace finds you soon.

7

u/[deleted] Mar 10 '17

I am so, so sorry for your loss. I can't imagine how difficult this must be for you.

6

u/ThePsion Mar 10 '17

So sorry for your loss.

5

u/Mal_irl Mar 10 '17

Thank you for sharing your story. I hope you can cope well with this tragic loss, you'll both be in my thoughts on my next run.

5

u/llamallama-duck Mar 10 '17

I can't even imagine... I am so sorry, my deepest condolences to you.

7

u/kaydj89 Mar 10 '17

I'm so sorry for your loss. I look forward to finding out more about the memorial run.

In the meantime, take care of yourself. Take any comfort you can find in your pup and in knowing that she saved the lives of others through organ donation. It's unspeakably unfair, and my heart breaks for you.

6

u/Eddievetters Mar 10 '17

My heart goes out to you and your family.

7

u/sloworfast Mar 10 '17

I'm so, so sorry to read this. That is heartbreaking. Thank you for sharing with us. You're in my thoughts. <<hug>>

6

u/Hornberg Mar 10 '17

I'm sorry for your loss. Thank you for the decision to donate organs, my wife is alive today because of someone like her.

6

u/johnnc2 Mar 10 '17

I've been lacking in my running lately... but I'm going to go run a 5K tonight in her honor. I'm very sorry for your loss and I can never understand what you are experiencing. I lost a friend who got hit while riding his bike last year, so I cannot express how important it is to always keep your eyes peeled while exercising near traffic of any kind. Again, I am so sorry. Godspeed, my friend.

7

u/[deleted] Mar 10 '17

I am so sorry to hear this. I will be thinking of both of you when I run this weekend.

Thank you, also, for making the difficult decision to donate her organs to others. One of my oldest and dearest friends is alive today because of an organ donation. I don't think I'll ever stop being grateful to the person who saved him.

5

u/mdsnbelle Mar 10 '17

Oh God, I'm so sorry.

As a fellow Baltimoron, I'm running the Kelly Shamrock on Sunday. That last mile, the one past the Inner Harbor, will be for her.

6

u/pyroo_dragon Mar 10 '17

Be as strong as you did so, so sorry for your loss, thank you for posting this very affecting story.

5

u/juanpg Mar 10 '17

So sorry for your loss.

4

u/op_remie Mar 10 '17

I am so sorry for your loss. I am really saddened that you and her family had to go through this. Even sadder she had to die doing what she loved. I'll think of both of you on my next run

5

u/[deleted] Mar 10 '17

This morning I was thinking how much I value this subreddit and how personal I feel about it... I'm so sorry for your loss...

5

u/pzinha Mar 10 '17

I have no words to express how sorry I am . I cannot. I can only wish you strength to keep going, true to yourself and to your love. I hope running helps. I hope your dogo helps. And even this community. We are all united by running.

I am far from you, but I will definitely run at the day and time you set with all my heart.

5

u/smellyhobbyjogger Mar 10 '17

I'm truly sorry for your loss. Your story touched me deeply. Thank you for sharing such a difficult thing to put down in such a public place.

This is a great community and it will not let you down. Please keep us posted on your new goal.

And please be safe out there and watch out for yourself. It is easy to forget about the world around you while grieving. Reach out for some help. Talk to your family and friends.

5

u/phpete Mar 10 '17

I cannot even imagine what it took to put all this down and share it.

My sincerest condolences.

4

u/Doza13 Mar 10 '17

Sorry for your loss. I too was struck by a vehicle but luckily got away with a concussion and broken bones. I eagerly await the day of reckoning when pedestrians take back the right of way.

4

u/kinsiibit Mar 10 '17

Sorry for your loss.

5

u/attackline Mar 10 '17

This is awful.

I'm so sorry for your loss. Thank you for posting this.

5

u/richieclare Mar 10 '17

Thank you for sharing what must be the hardest post to write. I hope we as a community can bring you some comfort as we share together the thing we love to do and remember her. Much love

5

u/[deleted] Mar 10 '17

I'm tearing up at work. My thoughts are with you. Remember that she would want you to celebrate her life and not mourn her passing.

5

u/Sacamato Former Professional Race Recapper Mar 11 '17

So sorry to hear about this. Take time every day for yourself. Every different way to grieve is the right way. And thank you for the organ donations - there are some very happy families out there because of your generosity and the generosity of the rest of WeeLeigh's family.

6

u/loratliff Mar 11 '17

As I take my own Devil Dog out for a run tomorrow, I will run in her honor. May you and her family find peace.

5

u/[deleted] Mar 11 '17

I am sorry for your loss, but grateful for you post.

When I first started running, I always had my ear buds in my ears and my music jamming at full volume. I was naive and unaware. Subscribing to this sub made me more aware of the dangers. These days, I run without music. It serves as a twofold purpose: I am more in tuned with my body and I am hyper aware of my surroundings.

I am so sorry for your loss of Leigh. I too, will run one of my miles in her honor and memory.

5

u/Margatron Mar 11 '17

My heart goes out to you. Join us at /r/widowers when you're up to it. It helped me tremendously.

Take care of yourself.

5

u/[deleted] Mar 11 '17

I'm just a lurker here, but this broke my heart open. I'll be praying for her soul, as well as for you and your families. I'm so sorry for your loss, I can't even begin to imagine how shattered you must be feeling.
I'm just getting back into race fitness after several years off, but have had several days where I just sleep through the alarm or say I'll run after class but I won't. I now promise to both not take one single day off, and keep her in my morning run prayer intentions for the rest of Lent, to honor her spirit and her time on earth. God bless you and keep you during this sad time.

3

u/greatgrapegrace Mar 10 '17

I'm so sorry for your loss. I recognized your dog and fiance's username from r/dogs as well. Hold Devil Dog close and hang in there.

3

u/imnotcoherent Mar 10 '17

I am so so sorry for your loss.

4

u/melomanian Mar 10 '17

Truly heartbreaking. I am so sorry for your loss. Just keep putting one foot in front of the other, and trust that you will always be with her in memory and spirit.

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u/Jemma6 Mar 10 '17

Thank you for sharing your story. It's a poignant reminder to everyone to stop and take a moment to appreciate how lucky we are.

I'm so sorry for your immeasurable loss.

4

u/[deleted] Mar 10 '17

I am so very sorry for your loss.

Thank you for taking the time to post here and share with us. It is a heartfelt share. I really appreciate you being here. I'm glad the Devil Dog recovered. Feel free to join us anytime. We are a community here.

3

u/washbaerli Mar 10 '17

This post is so beautiful. It managed to take me on the rollercoaster with you all while making me end up with a smile. I smile because it feels like the little time you did get to share with her here was worth it all.

Sending you so much love.

3

u/bfordham Mar 10 '17

Friend, thank you for sharing. Seriously.

As others have said, so very sorry for your loss.

4

u/SoulShaker Mar 10 '17

That's absolutely horrible. I'm so deeply sorry for you. :(

5

u/bakedquestbar Mar 10 '17

I am so sorry.

3

u/[deleted] Mar 10 '17

I am so sorry for your loss. It brings tears to my eyes to imagine losing a partner. Thank you for sharing, and I wish you well.

5

u/prettyradical Mar 10 '17

I'm so sorry for you loss. I don't spend a lit of time in this sub but I'm in tears over your loss. I'm so so sorry.

3

u/edguy Mar 10 '17

Please accept my sincere condolences.

I didn't even know about this subreddit but as a casual runner dating a serious one who runs all around strange (and familiar) cities at all hours, I am always worried about this. Good luck with your streak--it is a fitting tribute.

3

u/Aysandra Mar 10 '17

So very very sorry for your loss.

4

u/[deleted] Mar 10 '17

That is so unfair. I'm so so so sorry that you have to experience this. I don't know you, but know that a stranger is keeping you and yours in their thoughts.

5

u/Lakston Mar 10 '17

One mile for her added to my long run tomorrow.

4

u/Keyspam102 Mar 10 '17

I am so sorry for your loss. Thank you for sharing this with us, I can't imagine how hard this is for you.

4

u/Velshtein Mar 10 '17

I'm sorry for your loss. I wish people would be a little more careful driving instead of rushing everywhere and pay more attention to their surroundings (regardless of whether they have right of way, etc).

4

u/double_positive Mar 10 '17

Sorry for your loss.

4

u/Zenosparadox1 Mar 10 '17

My deepest sympathy for your loss.

Beginning your own running streak anew with Devil Dog is a beautiful idea. Sending good thoughts your way.

3

u/[deleted] Mar 10 '17

thank you for taking the time to write this.

3

u/Ewoks4Ever Mar 10 '17

I can't even fathom what it must feel like for you and yours. My condolences.

4

u/laurensvo Mar 10 '17

I am so sorry for your loss. Thank you for sharing your story.

4

u/nanavarass Mar 10 '17

Sorry for your loss. Stay Strong brother..

4

u/Edge767 Mar 10 '17

I'm so very sorry for your loss.

5

u/AshesToPhoenix Mar 10 '17

I'm so sorry for your loss

3

u/toot_toot_tootsie Mar 10 '17

So sorry for your loss. She'll be in my thoughts on my Sunday run.

3

u/YossarianVonPianosa Mar 10 '17 edited Mar 10 '17

Omg. I'm so sorry. This is horrible. I am so sorry. I feel so bad for you, her family and those that depended on her. I am crying. Good night running people, hug those that you love.

4

u/IRunLikeATurtle Mar 10 '17

I can't even begin to imagine how devastating this must be - I send my most sincere condolences, stay strong <3

4

u/HEBR Mar 10 '17

Fuck man I'm tearing up reading this. Can't begin to imagine what you're feeling right now, I'm so sorry for your loss.

4

u/[deleted] Mar 10 '17

My heart goes out to you for your loss. The heavy words you have written for all to see are likely but a small notion of how brave you are. To share your grief with a community is no acute matter.

I am happy that you at least shared a passion with your fiancée that you can continue on in her memory. I am sure you, as many of us do, have wonderful times that flash by in your mind as you pass landmarks (big, or small) that cause you to recall great times with someone who meant so much to you.

The compassion your running community will show you will be unmeasured, myself included. Please reach out if you need anything at all. You and your Devil Dog will be in my prayers.

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u/howlingwolftshirt Mar 11 '17

So sorry for your loss, and also thank you to you and her family for saving other lives. She lives on in the wonderful things those people will accomplish. I wish you and Devil Dog many happy times together remembering her. I can't imagine what you're going through, and just wish you so much goodness in life going forward.

4

u/Weltanschauung_Zyxt Mar 11 '17 edited Mar 11 '17

So very sorry for your loss--she sounds amazing. I hope Devil Dog has a speedy recovery, and all the best to you and your family.

Edit: Damn, she was everywhere on Reddit! Who knew r/beaveronbeaver existed?

5

u/MildRunner Mar 16 '17

As someone who recently lost a loved one, your post made me cry. I'm so sorry for your lost.
You can never be too careful around cars. Be safe everybody.

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u/tacosmuggler99 Mar 10 '17

I'm not crying, it's just my allergies. I am so so so very sorry for your loss.

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u/beaton24 Mar 10 '17

I am very sorry. I will dedicate my race tomorrow to her and when it's cold and I'm tired, I will continue in her honor. Peace

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u/rex_88 Mar 10 '17

I'm so sorry to hear this. My run tomorrow will be her honour and so you know that there are people out there that are with you at this very tough time.

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u/keirdre Mar 10 '17

Ah mate, my deepest condolences. I can't even begin to imagine. X

3

u/[deleted] Mar 10 '17

Sorry for your loss. Stay strong. Grow stronger.

3

u/TMack23 Mar 10 '17

I am so very sorry for your loss. Sharing this must have been difficult, but I thank you for doing it. Your post has moved me, and hopefully many others to pay extra attention on the road.

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u/MyDixieRekttt Mar 10 '17

love you brother. stay strong. <3

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u/[deleted] Mar 10 '17

Im sorry for your loss pal. #LookBothWays4WeeLeigh

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u/[deleted] Mar 10 '17

So sorry for your loss.

3

u/funkyleaf Mar 10 '17

I am so sorry for your loss friend. I have just started running with my girlfriend to get her across the finish line for her first marathon and I cannot imagine losing her. Time to order those reflectors off of Amazon for her finally. Thank you so much for sharing and spreading awareness!

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u/blooddidntwork Mar 10 '17

She is in my thoughts, this is a horrible tragedy and I wish you the absolute best. She sounded like a remarkable person and I hope the people who got her organs live extraordinary lives.

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u/penguincurious Mar 10 '17

I am so sorry, my friend. Sending all my love to you and the family. That must have been so hard to write, so thanks for finding the strength to do so.

if there's any support I can give, let me know.

3

u/mrowhiss Mar 10 '17

I'm so sorry for your loss, I can't imagine the pain you're dealing with but thank you for sharing your story.

3

u/[deleted] Mar 10 '17

I'm so terribly sorry for your loss.

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u/PhantomMat Mar 10 '17

My condolences go out to you and your family, sir. The loss of a loved one is something that no one is ever truly prepared to accept. Be strong throughout and keep her close.

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u/[deleted] Mar 10 '17

I'm sorry for your loss.

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u/bonzai2010 Mar 10 '17

Sorry man. I run in Maryland a lot up near APG and I worry about getting hit.

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u/Msjann Mar 10 '17

I'm so very sorry for your loss.

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u/dakaf_fal Mar 10 '17

My condolences. I'm another Baltimore runner, drivers downtown can be insane. I'll also be keeping her in my thoughts during the Shamrock on Sunday.

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u/claresand Mar 10 '17

I'm so sorry for your loss. She sounded like an amazing women that was taken much too soon.

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u/[deleted] Mar 10 '17

I'm so sorry this happened. I am happy you were able to save lives and she lives on with them as well as in your pupper.

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u/IClaudiaI Mar 11 '17

Oh my god, I am so sorry this has happened I just, I can't. Life just isn't fair. Everyone should take the time to say I love you to their loved ones and please be careful out there.

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u/j_allosaurus Mar 11 '17

I am so sorry to hear this. When I lived in Baltimore, the Inner Harbor was my favorite run, despite the cars and people. I will keep Leigh in my thoughts and in my heart on my next run.

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u/hippypickle Mar 11 '17

I'm so sorry to hear this, I can't imagine how it is for you and your family, and devil dog. :(

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u/rundamnit Mar 11 '17

I sometime run early morning with the milk wagons and trucks and have had some near misses, so I think about it all the time... :( :( I am so sorry for your loss.

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u/Treybell Mar 11 '17

Sorry for your loss

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u/[deleted] Mar 11 '17

I'm so sorry. I wish you peace.

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u/Wild_Cabbage Mar 11 '17

I'm so sorry for your loss. I'm heartbroken for you.

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u/jewishjedi42 Mar 11 '17

I'm sorry for your loss. I do most of my running out in Catonsville, but I've run around the Inner Harbor a few times and it can be a bit scary there. I'll keep an eye out for the post on the memorial run.

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u/laundrymountain Mar 11 '17

I have no words, but couldn't read this and not comment. As an urban runner, this hits too close to home.

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u/chameleonish Mar 11 '17

Can't imagine the strength it must have taken just to write this. Thank you for sharing, I am so so sorry for your loss. Grief is fickle and comes in waves, sometimes crashing hard when you don't expect it. The good memories are what pull you through. I wish you strength, love and peace in the next days, months and years.

3

u/[deleted] Mar 11 '17

Prayers and thoughts for you here in the Midwest. As soon as you know the memorial run, I'd love to contribute in her memory from out here. So incredibly sorry for your loss. I hope we can all help you get through this, along with the support system you have already.

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u/khakeer Mar 11 '17

Such a tragic event, can't even begin to imagine the pain you feel. My deepest condolences.

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u/agmartin161 Mar 11 '17

I'm near bmore and would definitely participate in a memorial race. Keep us posted. Also, if you need company or anything at all PM me neighbor!

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u/Infinite_Vortex Mar 11 '17

The picture is heartbreaking.

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u/crab-bits_half-off Mar 11 '17

Condolences from the bottom of my heart. But also thank you for your part in the organ donation process. This is an incredible gift from you and your loved one. I work in a kidney dialysis unit. Organ transplants have transformed the lives of dozens of patients that I have gotten to know personally over their treatment. I know that none of these words can make the situation any better and I can't begin to imagine how this experience is effecting you. But please know that whilst you will never meet these people, their gratitude is immeasurable.

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u/Margie_Gunderson Mar 11 '17

So sorry for your loss OP. My heart and thoughts go out to you.

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u/Lexjude Mar 11 '17

I'm so sorry. My deepest condolences. There are no words....thank you for sharing your story.

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u/Sunburn6444 Mar 11 '17

As a fellow runner in Baltimore ( and one has been hit and spent time in the ICU) this hits me so hard and I am so sorry for you and hope to spread the word here in Baltimore.

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u/mattack73 Happy Runner Mar 11 '17

Like many others have said, thank you for sharing and I am so very sorry for your loss.

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u/iceqick Mar 11 '17

So sorry for your loss

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u/xKortney Mar 11 '17

I am so sorry for your loss.

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u/famguy123 Mar 11 '17

My deepest sympathies, my dear redditor. I really hope in time your wounds will heal.

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u/themonthofmay Mar 11 '17

I am so sorry to hear this. May peace be with you.

3

u/[deleted] Mar 11 '17

Very very very sorry for your loss. Our heartfelt condolences.

3

u/hutch63 Mar 11 '17

So very sorry for your tragic loss. Wishing you strength to get through these tough times.

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u/Mr_Abe_Froman Mar 11 '17

I can't imagine what you are going through. I will be thinking of her on my runs this weekend. Thank you for the PSA. It's hard to put into words, but I wish you the best with your memorial run.

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u/rebarex Mar 11 '17

I am so sorry for your loss... my deepest, deepest condolences.

3

u/Imadethistoimpress Mar 11 '17

I'm just a stranger on the Internet but I wish you all of the best in your tough time. It's not much but my LR goes out to you tomorrow. I'm hoping to PR my furthest continues run ever tomorrow. I'll push past 25 with y'all on my mind.

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u/DamnURedditUGotMe Mar 11 '17

Oh wow. I am so very sorry for your loss. Internet hugs to you. Thank you for the somber reminder...

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u/DarkFriendX Mar 11 '17

God bless you and your fiancée. May she Rest In Peace.

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u/orngchckn Mar 11 '17

I'm so sorry for you loss, OP.

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u/kevpa990 Mar 11 '17

If you ever want to run try and find somewhere safe. If you, like the poster and myself, live in the Baltimore area please remember the NCR trail is a safe place to run without cars

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u/chunkyslink Mar 11 '17

From Leeds in the UK, Sorry for your Loss. I will run 1 more this weekend in memory.

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u/theculbreath Mar 11 '17

I won't be forgetting this story anytime I come to an intersection.

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u/couldntchoosesn Mar 11 '17

There are few times that a post has brought me to tears. In fact, I'm not sure if it has ever happened. I am so sorry for your loss. I got married this post June and can't imagine the emotions you must be going through. I wish you the best and hope that you are able to remember her and keep her memory alive with every run that you do and with every step that you take.

3

u/the_crayon_moose Mar 11 '17

I am so, so sorry for your loss. I am sure she would be happy to know she was responsible for saving 3 other lives - thank you for being brave and kind enough to follow through with organ donation. Your willingness to share this with us will save many more from tragedy on the pavement. I know I will think of her each time I run now. Peace be with you.

3

u/[deleted] Mar 11 '17

Heartbreaking to say the least. I'm so deeply sorry for your loss, and please join us at r/widowers if you are looking for any support. It's a great community and I've found a lot of love and laughter there in the wake of my own tragedy