Two years ago this Saturday, one of the most important people to ever enter my life had a heart attack while driving, struck a building, and died. His death was the first and, to date, last that I have experienced and it was certainly impactful.
A few posts ago, I included a quote about how the people who enter your life, no matter how brief that entrance may be, undoubtedly have an impact. We encounter people, opportunities, and downfalls for a reason, and although it may take years to discover why, there are always reasons behind them.
I only knew Kenney for a little over two years, but he taught me so much about the world, about life and about myself. He taught me the importance of family, about dreams and about success, and about pursuing what matters most. He brought a whole new meaning to my life and (ok, we’re getting deep here,) has been one of the few men I have ever trusted.
The last time I saw Kenney was MCLA’s Parents Weekend, 2007. My sorority hosted an event at our house, I was inducted into an honors society, and then Kenney treated my mother and I to sushi. Each year, on the same weekend, the same events take place; it is always a difficult weekend.
This year, I’ve decided to beat my emotions to the punch. Last fall, I had set a goal of running in MCLA’s Annual Sam Gomez Classic Road Race. By March, I had promptly forgotten said goal. However, the race is almost upon us, as is the anniversary of Kenney’s passing. Last week, I saw a flyer for the Sam Gomez, and decided that I was going to follow up on my goal, in honor of Kenney. I marched up to the coordinator’s office and put my name down on that list. I don’t care if I come in dead last, (which I won’t, I’m not a LOSER and neither was Kenney!) I am finishing the Sam Gomez.
“I’m running for Kenney. He’d want me to,” I texted my mom as I left the office. A week later, I feel like I had already accomplished something. I know that on Sunday, when the race rolls around, I won’t be running alone. Kenney will be there, pounding the pavement right by my side.
RIP Kenney Tynan 10/24/2007
