Few things are as difficult to overcome as the passing of a beloved brother. When the men at Ohio University lost one of their brothers to a tragic skateboarding incident last year, they decided they had to do more than simply grieve for their brother’s passing. 

After mourning for brother David Spyke, Ohio ‘15, the men of Ohio Xi put their energy to work by raising money for The Brain Trauma Foundation (BTF). To do so, they participated in southeast Ohio’s Race for a Reason – an event that lets participants raise money for the charity through participating in a 3K, 5K, mud run or triathalon. 

“We knew it would be important to do something for Dave because we wanted to remember him in a positive light,” says Alexander France, ‘15. “Though we lost one great mind, we can save others in his memory.”

In the end, the chapter raised more than $3,400 for BTF. But the experience was worth more than just the dollars raised.

John Littell, ‘16, chapter president for Ohio Xi, said the experience helped them remember how Spyke helped each of them become a better man and a better chapter member. 

“Dave’s passing has made every single one of our brothers closer,” he said. “The brotherly love has grown so much.” 

Looking back, he says he has advice for any SigEp who wants to be a better man.  

“Live every day to the fullest, and treat everyone you meet with love and respect, because you never know if you will see them again.”