The Northwest Indiana Running Community Remembers Liz Scott

The Northwest Indiana Running Community Remembers Liz Scott

As many of you know, we recently lost someone and it has had a significant effect on the running community. Liz Scott of Porter, Indiana was struck by a car while she was out running on the country roads of Chesterton.

Liz was a beloved wife and mother, a friend of many, and a talented teacher. She taught preschool at Field Station Cooperative and was a cross country coach at Discovery Charter School in Porter.

“She had a way with kids,” Paul Stofko, who knew Liz while volunteering at Field Station said. “She taught my son, and then my daughter in preschool. Liz was always upbeat and happy to be around her students.”

Something to know about the running community is that it is a community with deep connections. Everyone knows everyone else. You may not have run side by side with a person, but you see them at races, hear their name in conversation, and see them running up and down the streets in your town.

"[Liz] was an amazing, full-of-sunshine person," Kayla Morton said. "She was so inspiring. She encouraged my 13-year-old to keep going (with running) when she didn't want to any more. She wanted the best out of the kids."

liz-scott-memorialIn Liz’s honor, a Memorial Run is scheduled for February 6, 2016 at Coffee Creek Watershed Preserve in Chesterton. This is where Liz always loved to run. The run/walk is free and open to the public, and Paul Stofko, Brenda Campbell, Steve Kearney and Extra Mile Fitness invite everyone to come together as a community to remember Liz.

“People asked us to do something because we are all in mourning, and we put this run together so that we can grieve, create advocacy, and most importantly remember Liz,” Heather Henderlong said. “Liz was one of ours, and this hits close to home. We are hoping that this run might help us start to heal and move forward.”

Many people came forward and offered to help with the run, knowing that every little bit will help them heal. They all just want to be together to remember a very dear friend.

Kayla, her daughter, students and parents from both Discovery and Field Station designed a t-shirt in memory of Liz; there will be information on running safety available; and most importantly, everyone will be together.

The event coordinators ask that if you wish to take part in the Memorial Run that you register so that they are able to plan and provide a good experience for everyone. Click here to register.

Runners are everywhere, and one thing that cannot be overstated is that running defensively is the key to keeping themselves as well as others safe.

”Runners need to do everything they can to be seen,” Heather said. “Never assume that a motorist, another runner, cyclists, or any other person can see you.”

“Not all roads have bike lanes or sidewalks,” Paul said. “Runners as well as walkers need to be on the defense. They must be aware and vigilant.”