Widow Campaigns To Get Drivers To Watch Out For Bikes

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ENGLEWOOD, Colo. (CBS4)- A widow from Englewood wants something good to come from the tragic death of her husband. Patrick Fitzgerald was struck while riding his bicycle and later died. But Nancy Fitzgerald is turning her misery into a mission.

"Patrick was the life of the party. He was humble. He was inspirational," Nancy said. "He was the love of my life."

Patrick Fitzgerald (credit: Nancy Fitzgerald)

Nancy and Patrick were best friends, business partners and loving parents. But Patrick was killed in the summer of 2014.

"I just knew something was wrong because it's a 10 minute bike ride and it had been 30 minutes," Nancy told CBS4's Kathy Walsh.

Nancy explained that Patrick was at Revere Parkway near Arapahoe Road pedaling home from work when a truck driver hit the 41-year-old.

The Fitzgerald family (credit: Nancy Fitzgerald)

"He just didn't have a chance," Nancy said.

Since Patrick's death, Nancy has poured herself into their auto financing business, iLendingDirect. But she's also dedicated herself to saving other cyclists. Nancy produced a public service announcement begging drivers to pay attention.

And with the money from The Butterfly Foundation she runs, Nancy wants to help another widow.

"Whether you need babysitting, you need a scholarship, you need help painting your house," Nancy said.

Through Patrick's death, she is determined to make a difference.

A memorial bicycle for Patrick Fitzgerald (credit: Nancy Fitzgerald)

"I want to help other people and I want to set a legacy for him," Nancy said choking back tears, "I want to keep him alive."

The Butterfly Foundation is taking applications and nominations, just click on apply on the homepage.

While they are searching for a widow to help next, this foundation helps women in many different circumstances and welcomes all nominations.

The Butterfly Foundation is always looking for donations and sponsors as well, please email nancy@thebutterflytv.com if you would like to help.

Kathy Walsh is CBS4's Weekend Anchor and Health Specialist. She has been with CBS4 for more than 30 years. She is always open to story ideas. Follow Kathy on Twitter @WalshCBS4.