Anna Barr was no stranger to tough challenges. At just 19 years old, she had already proven herself as a Division I track and field athlete at Belmont University. Her days were filled with rigorous practices, early morning workouts, and long hours balancing schoolwork with her sport. But there was one constant that kept her grounded and connected to home—her car, Pearl.

Pearl, a trusty white 335i convertible with faded paint and a well-worn interior, had been with Anna through every milestone. It had carried her to countless track meets in high school, road trips with friends, and even her first drive to Belmont’s campus. Pearl was more than just a car; it was her freedom, her sanctuary, her partner in adventure.

On the evening of January 7th, Anna was driving back to her apartment after practice. Exhausted but satisfied with her day, she was singing along to her favorite country song when suddenly, from out of nowhere, a car ran a red light, slamming into the side of her car.

The impact spun Pearl around, slammed her into a fire hydrant, and sent it soaring like a shot put. When the car finally came to a stop, Anna sat in stunned silence, her heart racing faster than it ever had on the track. Miraculously, she was unharmed except for a few scratches and bruises. But Pearl was another story.

The other driver climbed out of the car, muttering apologies. “I didn’t see the light,” he stammered. As Anna gathered her breath and tried to take in the situation, a sinking realization hit her—the driver had no insurance.

The next few days were a blur of police reports, phone calls to her parents, and insurance agents explaining the grim reality: Pearl was beyond repair, and without coverage from the other driver, Anna was left to shoulder the financial burden herself.

For a moment, it felt like the weight of the world had been dropped on her shoulders. How would she get to practice? To class? To the grocery store?

As for Pearl? She would always have a special place in Anna’s heart. And while the car is gone, her legacy lives on as a reminder of resilience and drive—a lesson Anna will carry on every race, on and off the track.

So, I have decided to start a GoFundMe to help Anna relieve the stress that has been brought upon her. She will appreciate any and all donations, and we thank you all. We hope we can raise as much funds as possible to get Anna back on the road.