one-year anniversary

By Krista Voda

I would imagine there's a tinge of sadness attached to every single day. But, for 8 families, this weekend will be especially difficult.

It will be a year ago Monday that 10 people, en route to Martinsville Virginia, lost their lives in a plane crash. (8 families because three victims were from the same household, John Hendrick and his daughters Kimberly and Jennifer).

Every NASCAR fan remembers the moment.

If you were watching the race at home you were probably wondering why Jimmie Johnson wasn't celebrating the win. Instead, the 48 and all other Hendrick teams, were being whisked away to learn of the tragic news.

In the days and weeks that followed, the NASCAR community lived up to its family-focused image. From drivers to mechanics to officials, hundreds attended memorial services. Thousands posted condolences. Millions said prayers.

Rick Hendrick said he's not yet sure whether he'll attend the race at Martinsville. I can't blame him.

As wonderful as I'm sure it would be to receive the love and support of his colleagues, I can't imagine having to re-live that terrible day. And to do so, under the scrutiny of television cameras.

As a member of the media, I understand the need to tell the story. But as a human being, I understand the desire for privacy.

No doubt, the sadness will swell from a tinge to a tidal wave.

As fans, all we can do is keep the families in our thoughts and reflect on the lives of ten people... Ricky Hendrick, John Hendrick, Kimberly Hendrick, Jennifer Hendrick, Joe Jackson, Jeff Turner, Randy Dorton, Scott Lathram, Richard Tracy, and Elizabeth Morrison...who are deeply missed.