Wexford woman using husband’s tragic death during EQT 10 Miler to help other grieving families

WEXFORD, Pa. — A Wexford woman who tragically lost her husband is using her experience to help other grieving families.

Traci Kovacic lost her husband Mike in October 2015 when he collapsed while running the EQT 10 Miler race through downtown Pittsburgh.

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The 32-year-old died less than an hour later.

"Having to wake up one day and have your whole life flipped upside down ... that's really hard to cope with," Kovacic said during an interview from her home.

She was left grieving her husband and raising their 3-year-old daughter and 5-month-old son without their father.

Kovacic said she made it through thanks to never-ending support from her family and friends.

"Just because my brother is gone, Traci is still very much my sister," said Karen Urschler.

Friend Gina Mercuri added that it brought everyone closer together.

Kovacic appreciated the help and support but soon realized other families who lost someone didn't have the same system in place.

It led to the group "Angels By Your Side."

The nonprofit helps families in the aftermath of a sudden death with things like home improvement projects or moving assistance.

It was created in honor of Mike Kovacic and his friend Joe Guzzetti, who died in 2008.

Last fall, Angels By Your Side helped a family in need hang Christmas lights, a moment that had special meaning for Traci.

"They came over and got all of my Christmas decorations hung up (after Mike died). I didn't know it was happening, I didn't ask for it, but it made such a big difference for me that year. I don't think my kids would have had a Christmas tree that year if it weren't for them," she remembered.

It's the type of help she hopes to provide more of in the future.

"I know it's really hard to ask for help," Kovacic said. "But we've been there, and we know how painful that time can be."

Angels By Your Side hopes to raise money to keep helping families in the near future.

They will be holding a memorial fundraiser April 11 at Blueberry Hill Park in Franklin Park.

You can learn more about the event and how you can help here.

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