July - August 2005

A Letter to the 5BBC from Sara Padilla

Dear Five Borough Bicycle Club:

My name is Sara Padilla. My younger sister Liz was killed on June 9 while riding her bike to work in Brooklyn. I saw your organization on the Internet and felt like maybe if I write to you to thank you for writing about her in your newsletter, and for bringing cycling safety and the rights of cyclists to people's attention, that perhaps it will bring me a little closer to Liz and a little closer to finding some peace. My family and I are completely devastated by this loss. Liz was not only a cyclist but also participated in triathlons, river swims and running events. She was my sister and my close friend. She had been married for just over a year and a half to a wonderful man and was happy and in love. She loved to laugh and talk and read and share. She worked on behalf of those who couldn't afford legal services, including persons living with HIV and AIDS. She guided blind cyclists and runners through the Achilles Club of New York. She was so many things to so many people.

Please, Brooklyn cyclists, continue to promote a safe and healthy environment for people on the road. Get angry with cars and trucks who continually disregard traffic and parking laws. Tell your friends and family members about Liz. Do not let her death be in vain. She is incredibly missed. I am sad and hurt and bewildered. But I recognize and will attempt to emulate the love and energy she gave to living and working and playing and also the love she gave to those around her especially to her husband and her family -- it was endless.

Many thanks,
Sara Padilla
June 25, 2005