Z6 Mag
September 17, 2012
The saying, “Better late than never” has often been said in regards to a variety of situations. It can refer to a late apology, receiving a late birthday gift, even a confession of something that happened years ago; the result culminating in some solution or ending. In this case, the saying is referring to the cause of death of Sandy Dahl, who died in May of this year at the age of 52.
She was the widow of Jason Dahl, who piloted Flight 93 and ended up being hijacked on 9/11. She fought for years to live on past that tragic day and made a life for herself by helping others. Sadly, her life ended in May by what the coroner said was acute heart failure brought on by the combined effects of multiple prescription drugs and alcohol.
Carl Blesch, the Jefferson County chief deputy coroner said it was an accidental death and not suicide.
When Sandy’s husband, Jason Dahl died, she grieved as would anyone in her position; however, losing your husband during a 9/11 attack has made the process harder for her. Instead of giving up with her life, she decided to help others before her untimely death a few months ago. Though her cause of death was due to an accidental prescription drug and alcohol overdose (alcohol, painkillers, anti-depression and anti-anxiety drugs were found in her system), Blesch said a heart condition — right ventricular dysplasia — was a contributing cause in her death.
She did make sure to live her life constructively by being there for others in need. Sandy founded a scholarship fund in her husband’s honor to provide money
for young pilots to receive their education. She also made public
appearances to speak about the heroism of those aboard Flight 93 and
that their actions should never be forgotten.
