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February 24, 2003
Consul: February 24th, 2003
Brothers-
Sunday evening, sophomore Nathan Royal Osterbur entered the Chapter Eternal.
Nate had been in the hospital in an induced coma for five days after sustaining a major head injury last Wednesday.
Sunday afternoon, a prayer vigil was held in the Gloria Christi Chapel. Over 250 students were in attendance to pray for Nate and his family. After the service, I visited the family in the hospital and they informed me that his condition had improved.
However, after the 10PM Sunday Candelight service, Pastor Cunningham was notified that he should return to Porter Memorial Hospital immediately. I went along with him.
Upon our arrival, we learned that Nate's heart had stopped beating, due to complications from the head injury. After over 40 minutes of attempts to bring him back, he was gone.
The remainder of the evening was spent informing the chapter--and then spending time in the chapel. Men and women from various campus organizations were there to both pray and show their support.
Since Sunday, we have seen an outpouring of support from the VU Greek community, as well as our own alumni. Members of the Panhellenic Council as well as Christ Lutheran Church brought by a feast of food—enough to last us for several days. Over $3,000 has been raised by the Greek community as well as Iota Sigma alumni.
For three days we have spent the evening meal together as a chapter, finding time to enjoy each other’s company and temporarily take our mind off of the past week’s events. It has served us well, renewing the bonds of brotherhood and reminding us what makes Sigma Chi special.
For three days we have been bombarded with supportive cards, notes, emails, phone calls, and donations. Strong arms, true hearts, and tender sympathies have helped us to stand firm in this time of adversity. When one of us has wavered, another steps up behind him, providing courage and strength.
For three days we have asked the unanswerable questions: “Why did this happen?” “Why Nate?” “Why us?” “How can this be for the good?”
And for three days, we have turned to God when we could no longer stand strong on our own. When we could no longer be brave. When we could no longer hold it in. We know that enduring this period requires more of this brotherhood than we can do alone. It requires the grace and mercy and love of our God. And during these times, we put our trust in him.
“A Light shines in the darkness—and the darkness cannot overcome it.”
Though we now shiver in that darkness, we know there is light. There is hope. We will not ignore or shy from it. We will embrace it. And cling to it. And heal because of it.
This is a strong group of men, armed with high minds, true hearts, and strong faiths. This week has been a trying one. But we will endure.
Please keep the Osterbur family, as well as our chapter in your prayers.
Guard well,
David Martens