We had been in the state three days when my middle son, then 6, decided he was an Alabama fan. Though my Tennessee-loving heart was saddened, our son’s declaration of allegiance marked the start of our wonderful life here in Oxford and Anniston. We fully planned on spending the next 10 years, at least, of our lives here, watching our children grow and my husband Derek’s career in public service develop.
When Derek was killed in a tragic biking accident on June 14, I wondered, in shocked despair, what in the world I was going to do next with my three children and myself. But the unbelievable warmth and love that has encircled our family from the moment we received the crushing news has buoyed us up in a way I never expected. What an amazing community. What prayer warriors.
I cannot adequately express my gratitude for what has been given to us. There are so many people lifting us up through their kindness, generosity and prayer — the Oxford City Schools, the local bike association, The Anniston Star, the Center for Domestic Preparedness, our unbelievable neighbors and church family — that it literally takes my breath away. Thank you, thank you, thank you, with all our hearts. We love each of you and are forever grateful.
Mina, Chloe, Logan and Cooper Jensen
Oxford
