Community Rallies Around Teen’s Family After Tragic Accident

When a life is tragically cut short and a community goes into mourning, there’s a natural desire to come together and offer sympathy to the friends and family members most directly affected by that loss. Such is the case with 19-year-old Brittany Paige, of Dundalk, who, just before 5 p.m. on March 16, was struck by a car while jogging near Wesley College in Dover, Delaware.

Brittany, a freshman who was studying elementary education at Wesley, died just hours later.

Now, Brittany’s friends, family members, and even former teachers are coming together to offer love and support, providing a balance of comfort and funding to ensure that the memory of her brief 19 years is never forgotten.

A GoFundMe page has been created by Brittany’s family. According to the page, the money will be used to cover funeral costs and any other expenses that might be incurred because of the tragedy.

The funding page, which you can access HERE, has received 73 donations in the first 22 hours, raising nearly $4,000 of the $10,000 goal.

Sean McComb, Brittany’s AVID teacher for four years at Patapsco High, spoke highly of her, both publicly and privately.

“To me, she was an inspiration,” wrote McComb. “She overcame challenges early in her life that I can barely imagine, and doubt I ever could overcome with her grace. She was one of the most kind and grateful students I have ever known. She stepped up to meet social and academic challenges over and over again.”

Brittany’s last post on Facebook was, “I am proud of my grades.”

“Many of us were proud of her long before those grades,” continued McComb. “She worked much harder than most would be willing in order to earn them. Throughout her time in high school, she was one of the most compassionate and empathetic students I ever met. She was a constant beacon of kindness to classmates. Offering grace freely and generously, in her own quiet and unheralded way.”

McComb also acknowledged Brittany’s family as “…some of the most loving, kind, generous people I have ever known.”

McComb, who was named National Teacher of the Year in 2013, encourages everyone to help offset the sudden and unexpected financial burden. “If you are feeling charitable and would like to help an incredibly deserving family during an unfathomably difficult time, please consider giving.”

Brittany’s family and friends remember her as a loving and caring aunt to her niece and nephew. Others friends remember her as a smart, funny, bubbly, energetic, sweet-loving and friendly caring girl.

The Bierman/Macneal family, long-time friends of Brittany and her family, summed up their sentiment in just a few, powerful words.

“Simply put, she was great.”

The Baltimore County Breaking News Team asks that you join us in making a contribution to help Brittany’s family. Donations of any amount are welcome to support them as they prepare to lay her to rest. You can access the donation page HERE.

In addition, you can help Brittany’s family preserve her memory by sharing this information with your friends and family members. We appreciate your support.