For most people, Bangor, Maine, is simply a dot on a map. For DeQuincy resident Shane Nelson, it became sacred ground.
Last week, Nelson traveled more than 1,700 miles from DeQuincy to Bangor to honor the memory of his sister, Shawna Collins, who was among six people killed in a tragic plane crash there earlier this year. Collins, a 1990 graduate of DeQuincy High School, was a beloved daughter, sister, wife, mother, and friend.
The trip was especially meaningful because it coincided with what would have been Collins’ birthday.
What began as a difficult journey almost took an unexpected turn. After leaving Lake Charles before sunrise, Nelson experienced travel delays that caused him to miss a connecting flight in New York City. Rather than become frustrated, he embraced the unexpected stop and spent the evening in one of his sister’s favorite cities before continuing on to Maine the following day.
Once he arrived in Bangor, Nelson encountered extraordinary kindness from airport officials. According to Nelson, the airport’s leadership team went above and beyond to help him during his visit.
“They were some of the most accommodating people,” Nelson said. “The director, assistant director, and marketing manager were amazing.”
Airport officials escorted Nelson to a secure area at the crash site, allowing him a private moment to place flowers in memory of his sister.
His journey served as a reminder that love does not end with loss. Sometimes it looks like a long flight, unexpected detours, and a brother carrying flowers across the country simply to say, “I haven’t forgotten.”
Though the miles between Louisiana and Maine are great, the bond between a brother and sister proved greater still.
“It was important for me to be there,” Nelson said. “I just wanted to honor her.”
