We all experience highs and lows in our day to day living.  The highs seemingly vanish before we are completely fulfilled while the lows linger far too long in our minds as we fret their existence and repeatedly ask, “Why me?”

And then every now and then life serves you a harsh dose of reality – delivered like a blindsided shot from Ray Lewis that leaves you doubled over in search of the breath that escaped you.  Reeling from the shot, you realize that your highs might not have been so important and the lows nothing more than unnecessary self-induced drama.

On November 7 one such shot was delivered in Harford County, Maryland.

Katie Brady and her 8-year old son Wil were killed in a multi-vehicle accident on the southbound shoulder of the U.S. Route 1 bypass. Katie’s husband Steve and 2 year old son Ian survived and thankfully they are improving daily. The tragedy has left those close to the Bradys with far more questions than answers.

A life altering event like this can leave you scratching your head, wondering, searching and rationalizing. It challenges your faith and forces you to cling to your memories and hope that they can sooth the wounds delivered by a robber called death.

Katie and Wil’s lives were far too young and far too promising to be taken away.  Their lives had meaning and purpose and they gave to us in varying ways. But now, they can give no more.

That’s why it is incumbent upon us – those who have survived them, to further accentuate their purpose in our world. Together we need to bring relevance to the losses of Katie and Wil by remembering them, honoring them and rallying together not only to enhance the meaning of their lives, but to their deaths as well.

In the spirit of celebrating their time with us and to help fortify their legacy, a fund has been created to honor Katie and Wil by supporting their interests through scholarship programs and donations to causes dear to their hearts.

I know of another family who tragically lost their daughter in an automobile accident on her 10th birthday. The family decided to donate the young girl’s heart, lungs, liver and kidneys and as a result, five organ recipients are leading healthier lives today. Her life and her death became more meaningful. In a way she still lives today.

With your assistance the same can be accomplished for Katie and Wil.   In the future children can improve their chances for prosperous lives through the rewards established by Katie and Wil’s chosen scholarship programs.  The knowledge of your participation can also go a long way towards lightening the heavy load on the hearts of Steve and Ian, today and in the future.

Count your blessings, “Don’t sweat the small stuff” and say “I love you” to someone you love.

You just never know if you will get that chance ever again...

For more information on how you can help visit http://www.katieandwil.org/index.php