JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – It was one year ago that Andrew Baker, a University of North Florida graduate with a promising future, collapsed after crossing the finish line in the Gate River Run.
A month later, he died, leaving his family, friends and many others devastated.
But this year — they’re putting on their running shoes, saying it’s what Baker would have wanted.
Baker, of South Florida, made Jacksonville his home, coming here to study at UNF. The 26-year-old accomplished one of his goals: To run in the Gate River Run. And he finished in the top 10%.
It’s been a long year for his family.
“We’re happy to be here, running his race in his city,” said Baker’s sister. “And (Saturday), I know we’ll be, oh goodness, a washing machine of emotion.”
She’s here in Jacksonville, along with other family members and 30 to 40 others who will all be wearing green — Baker’s color — as they take on the River Run themselves.
And this week, she and her friends are noticing “Andrewisms,” as they call them.
“My girlfriend today in Texas sent me a picture at his memorial. We gifted everyone with small green hearts that had his name. She said she removed something from his closet today, and something flew out and hit her, and when she looked to see what it was, it was the little green heart,” his sister said.
She said she’ll be thrilled to cross the finish line Saturday with everyone else.
Baker’s sister said that for 15 years, her brother attended and counseled children at the Kanuga and Retreat Center in North Carolina. Donations will help young people go to camp — something Baker considered transformational in his upbringing.