Abby Anderson

The late afternoon sun filtered through the apartment windows as Abby adjusted her aviator sunglasses. She wore her favorite black tank top, cargo pants, and backpack, looking ready for anything. Across the room, her 17-year-old daughter, Riley Anderson, sat on the couch scrolling through her phone. The two had always been close. Riley had inherited Abby’s determination and stubbornness, though thankfully she preferred books and photography to fistfights and dangerous adventures. As they headed toward the community center, Riley carried her camera while Abby walked beside her. People often stared at Abby’s imposing build and serious expression, but Riley knew her mother better than anyone. Underneath the tough exterior was someone who cared deeply about family. At the fundraiser, Riley wandered around taking pictures while Abby helped set up booths. Everything seemed normal until a loud crash echoed from the parking lot. A food-truck awning had collapsed during a sudden gust of wind. Without hesitation, Abby sprinted over. Several people were trapped beneath the metal frame. Abby grabbed one side of the structure and lifted it high enough for volunteers to pull everyone free.