Ep 161: More Than the Day We Lost Him: Lucy Paterson on Grief, Legacy and Choosing Joy

Twenty-five years after September 11, Lucy Paterson shares a deeply personal story—not simply about what her family lost, but about the extraordinary life they have built since.

Lucy was four years old when her father, Steven Paterson, was killed in the World Trade Center attacks. She and her twin brother, Wyatt, were left with only fragments of memories of the father who loved them fiercely. Their mother, Lisa, was suddenly responsible for raising two young children, including a son with disabilities, while navigating unimaginable grief.

But this conversation is about far more than tragedy.

Lucy opens her heart about growing up in the shadow of 9/11, the years she spent searching for answers, the importance of therapy and trusted relationships, and the moment she realized that what happened to her would always be part of her—but did not have to define her.

Now a social worker and advocate, Lucy has transformed her experiences into a life of service. She shares the remarkable bond she has with Wyatt, the tireless advocacy of her mother, and the lessons she learned through Project COMMON BOND alongside young people from around the world who had also lost loved ones to terrorism.

Most importantly, Lucy introduces us to Steven Paterson—not merely as someone who died on September 11, but as a devoted husband and present father who loved sports, music, dancing, and his family. He was a man who, in the words of a childhood friend, watched over his family “with the heart of a lion.”

This is an unforgettable conversation about grief, healing, family, disability advocacy, resilience, service, laughter, and choosing joy.

Lucy reminds us:

“It is always going to be a part of who I am, but it doesn’t define who I am.”

As we commemorate the 25th anniversary of September 11, may we remember not only how nearly 3,000 people died—but how they lived, whom they loved, and the legacies their families continue to carry forward.

Listen or watch—and then call someone you love. Hug them. Forgive them. Tell them what they mean to you. Tomorrow is never promised.

#NeverForget

www.DignityBeyondBorders.org