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Nearly 22 Years Later, I’m Still Asking: How Many More Lives Must Be Lost?

Nearly 22 Years Later, I’m Still Asking: How Many More Lives Must Be Lost?

Nearly 22 years ago, my beautiful daughter, Roya, was killed in a truck underride crash.

Nothing prepares a parent for the loss of a child. The pain does not disappear with time. We carry it with us every day. Roya’s life was taken in an instant, and the heartbreak continues for everyone who loved her.

But what makes her death—and the deaths of so many others—especially heartbreaking is this: Truck underride is not a new problem.

It has been known for nearly 100 years. And side underride remains a devastating danger even though solutions exist to help prevent these catastrophic crashes.

How many lives have been lost to underride? I wish I could give you an exact number. The truth is, we cannot. Underride deaths have historically been difficult to identify and accurately capture in crash and fatality data. That means the true human toll may be far greater than the numbers we see in official statistics.

How much is your life worth?

Behind every number is a person. A daughter like Roya. A son. A husband. A wife. A mother or father. A friend whose life was taken far too soon—and a family left to live with the unimaginable consequences. This should matter to all of us.

Underride is not simply a trucking issue. It is a highway-safety issue that can affect any one of us when we share the road with a tractor-trailer.

We should all know about underride. We should all care about underride. And we should all demand that preventable deaths are not accepted as the price of mobility but rather installing underride protection on all large trucks should be accepted as a normal cost of doing business.

Please take a few minutes to learn more about truck underride, the devastating consequences of these crashes, and the solutions that can help save lives. Then share what you learn. Talk about it. Ask questions. Contact your elected representatives and transportation officials. And ask the trucking and trailer manufacturing industries to support proven measures that can prevent underride crashes and save lives.

I cannot bring Roya back. But I can continue to tell her story. And I can continue to fight so that another family doesn’t have to learn what mine learned nearly 22 years ago:

The loss of a child is forever. Underride was a death sentence for Roya and a life sentence for her family.

Please learn more. Please speak up. Please help us demand action. Because the next life saved could be someone you love.

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In Memory Of Roya; A Sister’s Loving Tribute

In Memory Of Roya; A Sister’s Loving Tribute

Roya Christine Sadigh, a bright and vibrant light in the lives of all who knew her, was born on June 19, 1978, in St. Charles, Illinois, and left this world far too soon on November 24, 2004, at the age of 26.

Roya grew up surrounded by the love of her family and the close-knit community of St. Charles. From a young age she stood out—as a competitive gymnast who brought focus, strength, and determination to every routine, as a gifted student who excelled in her studies, and as an artistic soul whose creativity added color and beauty to the world around her. Those same qualities followed her into adulthood. She was kind in a way that made people feel seen, funny in a way that could lighten even the heaviest moments, and fiercely dedicated to the people and principles she held dear. Roya stood firmly in her beliefs and lived with a quiet strength that inspired those around her.

Her Christian faith was a cornerstone of her life, guiding her with grace and conviction. She loved her family deeply and without reservation—her father, Parviz Sadigh, her mother, Lois Hawkins, and her siblings, Anthony, Cyrus, and Sarah, were the heart of her world. That same devoted love extended outward to her many friends and family, all of whom felt the rare gift of being truly cared for by Roya. Though she never had the chance to meet them, her love continues through the next generation—her nieces and nephews Cameron, Hannah, Ames, Miriam, Maeve, Peyton, Jacob, and Evelyn. Three of her nieces proudly carry her name as a living tribute to the aunt they know through stories, photographs, and the lasting imprint she left on their family.

After graduating with her bachelor’s degree from Judson University, Roya stepped into a promising career in medical sales. She brought the same dedication, intelligence, and integrity to her work that she had shown as a student and athlete, and those who worked alongside her recognized the bright future that lay ahead of her.

Though her time with us was heartbreakingly brief, Roya left a lasting imprint. She was the friend who made you laugh until you cried, the sister and daughter who loved without condition, and the young woman whose fierce loyalty, artistic spirit, and gentle strength made the world feel a little brighter. At this 30th high school reunion, we gather not only in sorrow for what was lost, but in gratitude for the gift of having known her.

Roya is survived by her father, Parviz Sadigh; her mother, Lois Hawkins, and stepfather, Mark Hawkins; her siblings, Anthony, Cyrus, and Sarah; and by the many friends and family whose lives were forever touched by hers. Her memory also lives on in her nieces and nephews: Cameron, Hannah, Ames, Miriam, Maeve, Peyton, Jacob, and Evelyn.

Her memory continues to live on in the laughter she shared, the faith she carried, the beauty she created, and the love she so freely gave.

In the years since Roya’s passing, her mother, Lois Hawkins, has devoted considerable time and energy to advocating for side underride protection on large trucks. These safety measures could help prevent similar tragedies and make such collisions more survivable. Those who wish to learn more or support this important work are invited to visit stopunderrides.org.

In Memory of My Beloved Sister Roya,

Sarah Larimore

Remembering Roya Through the Kind Comments of Those Who Knew Her

Remembering Roya Through the Kind Comments of Those Who Knew Her

Today I was searching for underride information online – to my surprise the following comments “popped up” and were written at the time I lost my beloved daughter.  Roya was so loved by everyone who had the good fortune to know her.  It was an absolute blessing to read each heartfelt note.  It’s been twelve years – the pain of her loss is always present.  Roya was a gift from God and it was a privilege to be Roya’s mom – I will love her forever. 

November 27, 2004 | Geneva, IL

I just found out about Roya’s passing. I am so sorry to hear. I will always remember her as that sweet and kind girl from high school. May the Lord comfort your family.

 Jonathan White

December 11, 2004 | Carol Stream, IL

My heartfelt condolences go out to your family during  difficult time. I was a classmate of Roya’s at Faith Christian in Geneva, and also a sometimes patient of Dr. Sadigh. God Bless you all this.

 Katherine Streit

December 02, 2004 | Warrenville,, IL

Roya touched so many people in such a short time. And I was fortunate enough to know her. Words can’t begin to express who Roya was, who she was going to become, or the sadness and sympathy I want to convey. Your family is in our thoughts.

 David Benning

December 01, 2004 | Minneapolis, MN

 I am very sorry for your loss. I knew Roya through Cyrus, she was a very sweet and gentle soul. God bless you and give comfort to your family
Nathan Knighten

November 29, 2004 | Tampa, FL

Dear Dr. Sadigh, Lois, Anthony & Kerri, Chris, and Sarah,
We were priviledged to have known and loved Roya. We will always have our very lovely memories of her. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with each of you at this time and always.

Love,
Tom, Diana, Jeff & Greg Soltess

November 29, 2004 | St. Charles, IL

I have not been in touch with Roya for several years, but she was someone who left an impact on your soul. I still think of her often, and our friendship was such that it will never be forgotten. My deepest sympathies to the Sadigh family, and all who were a part of Roya’s life; I am so sorry for your loss. You all will be in my thoughts and prayers.

 Gina Patrick

November 29, 2004 | St.Charles, IL

Roya, I know you are up there looking down on us today. I can’t wait to see you again in heaven and give you a big hug. You will always be Anthony’s little sister to me Roya. I am so thankful to have known you, and will never forget you. My heart goes out to Anthony, Chris, Sarah, and Mr. and Mrs. Sadigh. You are in our thoughts in prayers.

 Brooks and Amanda Burtch

November 29, 2004 | Clayton, CA

To the Sadigh family,
Words cannot express the deep sorrow that my family and I feel at your incomprehensible loss. Roya and I have not been in touch for more than 10 years but she is very present in my heart. She contributed so much to my childhood and was such a positive, caring, giving and loving person. I will never forget spending time with the extraordinary Sadigh family. My family feels blessed with the gift of knowing and sharing special times with Roya. Our thoughts and…

 Courtney Desmond Keuer

November 29, 2004 | Alexandria, VA

On our way to Florida we stopped in Chattagoona for the night. We had great fun sleeping in a train car hotel.

November 29, 2004

We had so much fun putting on a gymnastic show for the whole beach.
 
November 29, 2004
Our (Desmond) family trip with Roya to Florida. Roya permanently captured a piece of my whole family’s heart. There, she will always remain present.
 
November 29, 2004 

Anthony, my heart aches for your and your family’s sorrow. You will be in my prayers.

 Jordan Kraakevik-Leuchtmann

 

November 29, 2004 | Houston, TX

It is with much mourning and utmost sympathy for Roya’s family and friends that I write. Roya had been with us for only a few months and was working so hard to develop her career. It was always a pleasure when she stopped by the office to pick things up or drop them off. She smiled from her very soul and that affected all who met her. Roya will be sorely missed as part of Carabiner Surgical. It was an honor to work with her. God Bless the Sadigh family as they mourn this most tragic loss….

 Lori Slager

 

November 29, 2004 | Vernon Hills, IL

Roya, a beautiful face, with beautiful grace, a shiny star, FOREVER. We miss you & love you as God wraps his arms around you.

To the Sadigh family: It has been a blessing to know and love your wonderful family. We are always here for you.

Love, Walter & Louise Nanashko

 

November 29, 2004 | Naples, FL

Roya made a positive impact on every person she met, her smile was contagious. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Sadigh family through this difficult time.

 Josh & Lisa Hall

 

November 29, 2004 | Sycamore, IL

We are deeply sadden by the loss of Roya, a beautiful face with beautiful grace. A shiny star forever.
To the wonderful Sadigh family: It has been a blessing to know and love you and we share your pain and are here always for you.

 Walter & Louise Nanashko

 

November 29, 2004 | Naples,, FL

Within minutes of meeting Roya we could easily see what a charming, caring and beautiful person she was. We are so sorry we didn’t have more than a few months to get to know such a wonderful person even better. Our hearts go out to her family, friends and Joe. You all have our most heartfelt and deepest sympathies.

 Steve and Chelsea LaRocco

 

November 29, 2004 | Chicago, IL

This is a picture of Roya and I (behind her on the left) when we met at church camp in 1993.I went to school with Roya (Judson). After hanging out a few times, we realized that we had met 6 years earlier going to church camp. I knew I remembered her beautiful smile and personality…Roya: you were a light in this world, and I can’t wait to see you again. To the Sadigh family: I am overwhelmed with grief for you. Your family will be in my prayers.

 Julie Salzmann

 

November 28, 2004 | West Dundee, IL

Although we only knew Roya for a short time, it was apparent to us what a beautiful person she was on the inside and out. We are deeply saddened by her loss, and for the pain those who knew her are all going through. Our deepest condolences go out to her family and to Joe.

 Tom and Keri Culhane

 

November 28, 2004 | Perrysburg, OH

Please accept my deepest sympathy and that of all of the staff of The Schaumburg Treatment Center. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family in this devastating time.

 Sharen Hennings, R.N.

 

November 28, 2004 | IL

I am so saddened by the loss of this fine young lady. The Sadigh Family has always stood out in my mind as well-balanced, very respectful to each other, and others, and very loving. Roya carried these great attributes with grace. My deepest sympathy to your family.

 Roxie Remitz

 

November 27, 2004 | St. Charles, IL

We are deeply saddened for your loss and pray for your family.

 John and Heidi Urbelis

 

November 27, 2004 | Geneva

My heart will forever ache from this loss. You were one of the best friends I’ve ever had and I can’t bear to see your family in this pain. I will forever talk about your unconditional love and loyalty to me, and the powerful love you expressed over your family. Angel, enjoy the wings. I love you.

 Sasha Urbelis

 

November 27, 2004 | Chicago, IL

I only worked with Roya for a few years at Bank One, but she was someone with great promise. I am so sorry for your loss.

 Carol Nienaber

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