Reflections
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2014 Scholarship Recipient Letter
Dear Meridith Hernandez,
Thank you for choosing me to be the Kate Schairer-Hernandez scholarship recipient. This scholarship makes me feel even more dedicated to pursuing a major in the health care field. My eventual goal is to graduate with a masters in Occupational Therapy, where I then hope to work with injured military. Thank you again for this privilege.
Sincerely,
Elizabeth B.
September 7, 2014
My sister, Catherine Mary Schairer Hernandez, known to many as Kate, was simply a wonderful person. I loved her very much. When we didn't talk or see eachother everyday ...my heart would ache. Sometimes when people die tragically at a young age, they're often praised and glorified. I could create such a list about my sister, but that would diminish all that she was, in her short 39 years on earth. If you knew her, then you know the wonderful attributes she emboldened. She brought a smile to those she would greet, and always had a warm heart. She loved her family, her friends, and her profession as a nurse. As her sister, I always knew how deeply she loved me. She was one of those "special" people, who had a way of making everyone around her feel comfortable. Nearly 18 years after she was killed while crossing a street in Corpus Christi, Texas, I still grieve the loss of my sister. The loss of sharing our lives together and all the belly laughs that never came to pass.
I believe she is resting on my shoulder and cheering me on in everything I do. She would be so very proud of her daughters, as we are all proud of the grown women they've become.
We followed Kate's lead in helping to care for others. Our family followed Kate's lead and became a village of caring for eachother.
That is the legacy of Kate Hernandez: Nurse, Mom, Wife, Daughter, Friend and Sister.
-Marilyn S.
September 7, 2014
My Sister, My Friend
Catherine Schairer Hernandez moved to Corpus Christi, Texas with her family to make it her permanent home. She loved the biggest little windy city and all the people who lived there. She was Flour Bluff High Schools' Health Educator and a registered nurse. She was known in the Bluff as "Nurse Kate." She was known for her loving and giving personality. Kate was a great listener. She was the woman who would listen to you if you had a problem or a story to share. She could make you feel like you were the only person that mattered. If you needed a friend she was available for you. If you had a question she would listen and try to give you the best answer possible. She would make you laugh and smile. She would cry with you if you needed it. She would offer something of herself whether it was a thought, a smile, a laugh, or even something tangible like something as simple as a sweet tea or something as complicated as a place in her home. She was truly one-of-a -kind. And she did it without thinking about it. It was natural for her. She just had a good heart. My memory of her will always be that she listened to what you had to say and always gave her best effort to help.
As a wife and mother to three young girls she was busy. She was very active in her community, teaching, nursing, volunteering, and helping the young girls of the high school. She wanted her family to be involved in their community, she wanted her girls to be strong involved women, and she led by example. Many young women leaned on Kate, and her daughters shared their lives and childhoods in Kate's passion of helping others. Although it has been a very long time for them, her compassionate personality lives on through them. Each one of them carries on a part of her legacy. She would be proud of them today.
I am her younger sister, Judy. She always took care of me and I know I am a more compassionate and loving person because of my sister. Our family lost our father at the age of 42 and we shared a special bond of helping raise each other. Kate took care of me and listened to me. She stood by me and guided me through my trials and tribulations of life. I was lucky to have her as my older sister. It was a gift for me. I know it! And, I know she did the same for countless other people in her life. I was with her six weeks before her death. We had a wonderful visit. I was happy for her life. She was a beautiful woman in a very good place in her life. She had a family who loved her, a community who embraced her and she was very happy. Kate's last act of compassion was to save the life of another. That was who she was!
Wife, mother, sister, daughter, teacher, nurse, friend, neighbor, hero. She was that woman and all who knew her loved and embraced her.
My sister, my friend . . . I love you, forever!
-Judy H.
September 15, 2014
Kate was a very unique individual. She was always happy and uplifting and the most positive person I have ever been around. She made you feel like you were her best friend and made you feel so good about your own self. She always listened and was very caring. I miss Kate A lot! I know she would be very proud of her 3 girls and her grandchildren. She was taken from us way too soon and has missed out on so much in life. I know she is watching from above and with us. Miss YOU My Dear Friend Kate.
-Carol B.
September 15, 2014
Nurse Kate was an amazing woman, she helped me when I was pregnant in High school and after I had my Ashley , Nurse Kate was there to talk to me and help me every step of the way. I took my baby to see Kate at the school all the time and we had a blast . I miss Nurse Kate so much to this day, and I can honestly say that I am a better mom and person all together , thanks to her love and understanding and awesome advice. Thank you Hernandez family for sharing this amazing woman with all of us. Much love.
-Alaina J.
September 15, 2014
Miss your Mom she was an awesome person and very nice lady.
-Ben Ray B.
September 15, 2014
Love you always Hernandez family. Not a time goes by that I don't think of Kate when the Cowboys play. She left my family with countless memories.
-Kari N.
September 15, 2014
There's not a day goes by that I don't think about Mrs. Hernandez.
-Kelly O.
September 15, 2014
Nurse Kate was my favorite! I absolutely loved her class.
So sorry for your loss.
-Brandi S.
September 15, 2014
I loved Nurse Kate, she was the best.
-Jessica B.
September 15, 2014
Nurse Kate always knew how to take all bluff rats!!!
-Jennifer C.
15 Sep 2014
She was a great lady.. Sorry for ur loss..
-Jackie M.
09/15/14
I will never forget when that happened...a wonderful woman. Hugs Hernandez girls!
-Holly D.
September 15, 2014
Your loss is never forgotten. I didn't know members of your family at the time of the accident, but remember how my heart-ached as a fellow mother when I heard the news. You have all become such beautiful women, inside and out. I'm sure your mom's beaming from on high!
-Sue W.
September 15, 2014
Sorry for your family's loss of yall mom. I think they should change the speed limit to 15 miles per hour during any school event
-KanDenise S.
9/15/14
Mrs. Kate was a wonderful person. She always had a beautiful smile on her face every time I would see her at school. I am still sorry for your loss. She knew my mom and now my mom is in heaven too. I hope they are enjoying each others company♡
-Tiffany M.
9-16-14
Mrs. Kate is always in my heart as well as you and your family. I will always remember that night my whole life changed that night. Your Mom was such an awesome woman. I know she is an angel who watches over you girls. I feel so many different emotions it happened again. I pray for the victim and his family.
-Rose P.
9-15-14
She was such an amazing lady
-Tiffany A.
Sep 16, 2014
We shall never forget.
-MaryHelen G.
September 16, 2014
I obviously never met her, but from those articles she seems like she was an amazing and inspirational woman. I wouldn't have expected anything less from your mother. Miss you Brie.
-Kristan H.
09/15/2014
I never forget that night. Miss her.
-Raelene S.
16 Sep 2014
That was so sad, she was great.
- Camille C.
September 15, 2014
I thank God for your sweet Momma and your family. I am forever grateful our paths crossed when Jessica introduced us to you all. The memory of your dear Mom is indelibly etched in the hearts and lives of so many of us who love her.
- Justin H.
09-16-14
<3
-Mary H.
09-16-14
We have all been thinking about you girls and the rest of your family this week.
-Sharon P.
9-16-14
She was a wonderful teacher and person!! Xxx
-Lara F.
September 16, 2014
That was beautiful,just like she was. She was very good friends with my sister which is how I knew her. I think of her often and am so happy to see this lovely tribute. Her children must be wonderful young women!
-Jean C.
9-16-14
THOUGH WE MET "CATHY" WHEN SHE WAS 16 YEARS OLD, I WAS ASSURED BY OUR SON, BILL THAT SHE WOULD BE THE GIRL THAT HE WOULD MARRY. THEY WERE ALWAYS TOGETHER IN THEIR SENIOR YEAR, GRADUATING IN 1975 FROM ISLAND TREES HIGH SCHOOL. UPON ENTERING THE COAST GUARD IN FEBRUARY 1976, THEY BECAME ENGAGED, AND THE START OF THEIR DECISIONS TO MARRY BECAME A REALITY. IN JULY 1977 THEY WERE MARRIED THEIR FIRST HOME WAS IN BROOKLYN SO THAT CATHY COULD FINISH HER COLLEGE EDUCATION, WHICH WAS THE AGREEMENT MADE TO HER MOM, PAT SCHAIRER. WE WERE HAPPY TO SEE THEIR LIVES WITH THEIR THREE DAUGHTERS CONTINUE WITH THE DIFFERENT MOVES IN SEVERAL STATES THAT BILL WAS SENT WITH THE COAST GUARD. THEY ALWAYS HAD OUR COMPLETE SUPPORT AND ENJOYED VISITING THEM WHEREVER THEY LIVED. KNOW THAT THEY EMBRACED TEXAS HOSPITALITY, THEIR HOME HAD AN OPEN DOOR TO MANY FAMILY AND FRIENDS. WE MISSED HER WONDERFUL WARM WELCOME EVERY TIME WE RETURNED TO CORPUS, THOUGH I AM NOW ALONE, I STILL REMEMBER OUR LOVABLE "CATHY" OUR DAUGHTER. LOVE MOM H.
9/16/14
I miss her, she was such a wonderful lady.
-Valerie S.
September 16, 2014
I do not know if you remember me or my family, we lived around the corner from you on Belmont. I remember everything. Suzy D. was my sister who we lost some 15 years ago by a drunk driver. I do not know the family you speak of but they will be in our prayers.
-Jimmy D.
09/16/14
Cathy and I met at a mutual friends sleepover in the 6th grade. In our town there were many elementary schools and we were in different ones. We immediately became friends. We stayed awake all night and played practical jokes on everyone to the point that they were begging us to go to sleep, instead we stayed up laughing all night. Although our circles didn't cross too much throughout our school years, no matter when we saw each other, that bond remained of those two kids that met in 6th grade as if no time had ever passed. I feel fortunate to be a part of her daughters lives. They are all very special women that she is undoubtedly looking down on with so much pride. Cathy was one of those special people that left quite a mark. She touched so many lives and changed some of them for the better just by knowing her. That void will never be filled, but the world is a much better and sweeter place for having had Cathy (Kate) Schairer Hernandez in it.
-Joanie V.
Kate and her 3rd grade class.
-Photo donated by Jodie
September 26, 2014
I remember her loving and kind demeanor such a beautiful person! Forever in our hearts <3
Tanya S.
October 8, 2014
Cathy and I met in Levittown, NY when we were 5 years old. We were “best friends” from then on through high school. I always thought the show “The Wonder Years” did a great job of depicting what it was like to grow up during the late 60’s and early 70’s. Cathy and I went through great changes as did the world. Even though at times we had different views, we always loved and respected each other and found common ground. Over five decades later, here are my reflections about Cathy:
As best friends, we did everything together and shared a lot of firsts like: First Holy Communion; weekend sleepovers; Brownies/Girl Scouts; safety patrol; losing loved ones to death; two week sleepover camp (we hated it!); the World’s Fair; Confirmation; paid babysitting; loves and crushes; ear piercings; perms and hair coloring; travelling to Europe; learning to drive; meeting our future husbands; and, the senior prom.
Cathy’s giggle was infectious and to this day whenever I see a clip from her favorite shows - “I Love Lucy,” or “The Tonight Show”, I think of her. She had a very upbeat personality and if you needed cheering up, she was the person to call.
There was the cow bell that Cathy’s Mom would ring when it was time for Cathy and her siblings to come home for dinner; there was Reilly, her big beautiful dog; there were the plaid ribbons that Cathy wore in her braids and her fondness for wearing skorts. I remember patiently waiting for Cathy at the orthodontist. Cathy was a nail biter. She was so thrilled when she got her first set of acrylic nails! Under Cathy’s bed, there was the roll away bed that was mine for many a weekend. The entire ceiling and walls of Cathy’s room were filled with posters. Some were of scenes from around the world and some were the popular icons of the time. She was a Peanuts fan and I remember her Snoopy trash can. Cathy loved to give people nicknames. I became “Margo”!
We walked everywhere. All the streetlights went on at dusk and that was our clue it was time to go home. Halfway between our homes at the intersection of Horizon Lane and Constellation Road there was a streetlight. We would walk with each other to the corner then each run to our respective homes. We loved to shop and would often walk to Mays Department Store and Times Square Store. On Sunday’s, we walked to St. Bernard’s Catholic Church and went to Dunkin Donuts after Mass. The East Village Green was another favorite destination. We were often at the park, pool, grocery store, laundromat or the deli.
In Cathy’s backyard there was a huge weeping willow tree and hill. We would play for hours with the neighborhood kids and had a blast. All the kids loved to play kickball in the street. When my Mom was involved in the Levittown Home Show, Cathy and I would be there handing out the Bethpage Tribune! When we were in junior high, we successfully sold carnations on the weekends to raise spending money for our summer trip to Germany.
Around age eighteen, about a year after we met our forever men, Cathy and I went our separate ways. We attended different colleges. She headed for a career in nursing and I headed to Wall Street. I was a bridesmaid in her wedding and she was in my wedding party. After Cathy and Bill started their family, Joe and I would get a note once or twice a year with a family photo. When my first son was born, she sent a gift.
When we were younger, every fall like clockwork, Cathy would be sick for Halloween. It became a standing joke that we never did get to trick or treat together. In October 1996, I was two months pregnant with my second son. I never thought when the phone rang that I would hear such sad news. It was such a shock.
As we travel through life there are people who really make the journey special. For me, Cathy was such a precious person. In our youth, we were confidants and shared our most private secrets and ambitions. I am so proud of all she has accomplished as a Mom, wife, sister, friend, teacher, healthcare worker and member of her community. She was a beautiful person all around and a dear friend who touched countless hearts. I know she is in Heaven and is very proud of her family and friends for continuing to do God’s work.
-Margo (Meg C.F.)
9-25-2014
Corey R. and I put this up many years ago and it still stands.
-Michael R.
Sept 25, 2014
We will never forget your mom.
-Gloria G.
April 10, 2015
The day of the accident, I was in her office and I remember us walking out together, it was the end of the day. I was in band, she knew that and we were talking about the football game we had that night. She loved her school, her students, her job. She was an amazing person with an infinite love in her soul. I asked her that day as we're walking out the front doors of the school if she was going to the game, she said, I'll see you there. That was the last thing she ever told me. She sacrificed her self and Flour Bluff High School changed forever. Nurse Kate's guardian angleship orders were to be on earth in the flesh to save a life. As devestating as that night was, it was a night of honor, courage, and selfless love. Thank you Nurse Kate...Always, Cara W.♡♡
4/22/2015
Nurse Kate has a special place in my heart. She was always willing to help me not only be a better student, but also a better person. Miss her
-Jay P.
4-22-15
Nurse Kate was one of the first ppl to find out I was pregnant. I was in her office daily, she never turned me away. I miss her calming voice and the whole hearted smile...Tiffany R.
April 23, 2015
A Very Nice Young Lady that Helped Many Young People!
-Donald C.
04.23.15
She was truly in her place serving as a nurse. A very caring and compassionate lady.
-Crystal A.
April 23, 2015
I still can't believe what I have just come upon browsing the Internet! My mother Kathleen and my step-father Bob were good friends of Cathy's mother and father Patty and Ray. Her mother and father were the witnesses when my mother and step-father got married. That's how I met Cathy. We spent many weekends at 99 Constellation Road having laughs and exploring Levittown. I lived in Brooklyn so going to Long Island, in those days, was like going to the "country"! We would go to Dunkin' Donuts, church at St. Bernard's or hang around the house listening to music. Chasing their dog Reilly through the streets - we ended up taking one of Reilly's puppies home to Brooklyn - my first dog, Tracey and my cousin Bobby took another puppy, Kelly. When I slept over, I had the pull-out bed in the room Cathy shared with Marilyn and Judy. Stephen's room was across the hall. Judy usually hung around with my younger brother, Kevin. I still remember when Ray passed away - how horribly sad that funeral was. As we grew older, we kept in touch. I knew that Cathy and Billy got married. We wrote every Christmas - Cathy's letters usually filled with tales of her new home port or another beautiful baby girl! She was so very happy and loved her family and her life. Suddenly, her letters stopped coming and my letters were not answered. I thought maybe Cathy had moved somewhere or that our relationship had run its course. How I wish now that I had tried harder to get in touch with her. Cathy was one of those childhood friends that you wish could have stayed a friend forever. She was always kind, funny, beautiful and sweet. I had so many wonderful times with her and so many memories. I am so sorry for her lovely daughters and her family. I know that she is in Heaven watching over you and hopefully me, an old friend, as well. Love you Cathy.... Nancy M.
Long Island, NY
Long Island, NY
10.11.2016
Twenty years ago we lost a beautiful person, my inspiration for how I live and love life and how I conduct myself in all my endeavors. I can still hear the phone ring, remember hearing the words she was gone and feel the pain all over again. But, and it is a big but. I know she would want me and all of us to continue to celebrate life, enjoy the little things, walk barefoot more often, eat ice cream, and enjoy the journey. It does not matter how long out journey is, it matters how we live it. Xoxo. Hug a little closer today. I love you Cathy
-Judy H.
March 1, 2016
I just wanted take a moment and express how much my family loved Mrs Kate. She was a person who touched many hearts. Not only did she have influance over my life at school but my parents we blessed to have worked with her as well. She crosses my mind often and she is still missed
- Katie O.
10-11-2016
It's been 20 years since I heard what happened. I didn't know it would be the last time I would see you. I even remember the last conversation we had. I hugged you so tight. I didn't want to let go. I told you I would see you on Monday. Little did I know that I wouldn't get that chance. I didn't want to stop giving you that hug, but I had to. I miss you so much. I think about you every day. I tell my daughter how much of a wonderful teacher you were. I remember when we got the phone call. I had told my mom and grandmother that I had seen your angel. They told me it was just a dream. I knew it wasn't. A few minutes later the phone rang, it was Miss Miller. She had called to tell us what had happened. I just kept saying no and broke down crying. We were going out to eat that morning. I just couldn't eat. All I did was cry. It was so hard to say good-bye to you. It's so hard to type this out right now. I'm literally crying as I do type this. I just wish I could hug you one more time. I know you are in heaven with my grandmother smiling down on your family, just like she is smiling down on me.— feeling heartbroken.
*Teresa H.
10/11/16
Beautiful Miss Kate. I will always remember that day as well. Looking at her three girls, the beautiful moms they are, how successful they have become.... all three have carried on her legacy. She lives on, but through all of ya'll. I see her everytime I'm around all of you. Xoxo lots of love sent to you today...Jolie J.
March 23, 2017
Old friend,
I met Kate in NC on Oak Island. I threw her 30th birthday surprise party. It wasn't to long ago that we were watching the vcr tape it was on. I am so sorry for your loss. I remember your dads phone call about Kate. It was the day we arrived in Kodiak,AK. I have thought of her often and wonder where Bill ended up. He and my husband Randy were really close when we were stationed together. Again I am truly sorry for you loss. We would like to get in touch with your dad sometime but have been unable to locate him. Let him know we still think of him often.
-Randy and Tammy J.
~~Mariel 10.11.17
Judy H. 10-11-17
Her Life Continues On
Unfortunately, I never had the opportunity to meet Kate and share in the experience of watching her precious grandchildren grow-up with her. However, I know for sure that her love, wisdom, and compassion lives on and thrives in her beautiful daughters. Each of them have achieved remarkable accomplishments and honor her by giving to others. I am sure Kate is so proud of them, and she is watching over her grandchildren too. We would have been good friends. I see Kate in my daughter-in-law, Brieana and my grandson, Benjamin. A family is a gift that lasts forever! Let's make each day count!
-Brenda G. 10.12.17
-Mariel 10-11-18
-Brieana *April 15, 2019*
~~Brieana 5/12/2019~~
10/10/2019
I tear up when I think of her those who know me know I was an extreme ADHD case and noone could control me I was always in trouble and allways in the office Kate Hernandez would allways let me hang out with her she allways kept me smiling and allways seemed to care when noone else did she helped me more than she ever knew and for that she will allways hold a special place in my heart and I will allways love and miss her - James B
Thank you for helping my sister so long ago. Xoxo Michael F. 10/13/2019
December 25, 2019
Thank you to the
Flour Bluff HS Stingline Drill Team
for selling a beautiful Christmas tree just the right size to bring to a place that needed some holiday cheer special thanks to Tiffiny Fuller and Diane Routh