Greater than her grief: Rebecca Esparza honors her brother

Rebecca Esparza is a Texas native, stay at home mom, teacher, first time runner, and surviving sister who is discovering strength and connection through movement. She is currently training alongside her fellow athletes in the wear blue Gold Star and Survivor Endurance Program Cowtown Half Marathon cohort, a journey that has become both a physical and emotional outlet. For Rebecca, participating in this program means connecting with other Gold Star and Surviving families who are working through grief in similar ways while building community and resilience together.

Rebecca runs in honor of her eldest brother, CW3 Zachary “Zac” Esparza, U.S. Army. Zac was, in her words, silly, funny, brave, curious, disciplined, and someone who truly brightened every room he entered. He loved adventure and encouraged others to push their limits, often reminding people that they could go another mile and do more than they thought possible.

With a ten year age gap, Rebecca and Zac’s relationship grew stronger as she entered adulthood. Though they often saw each other only once a year due to his service, they stayed connected through calls, texts, and social media. During a difficult season in Rebecca’s life, Zac welcomed her to stay with him in Hawaii. Later, he invited his siblings on a five day hike through the Andes and Amazon to Machu Picchu, a trip Rebecca took with him that became one of her most cherished memories.

Within a year of losing her brother, Rebecca became a new mom and found herself searching for ways to process grief while remaining present for her family. Physical activity became a meaningful outlet that allowed her to release emotions in a healthy way. Running, something Zac once loved, became a way for Rebecca to keep him present in her daily life while finding healing through movement.

Through the wear blue community and the Cowtown Half Marathon cohort, Rebecca has connected with others who understand the deeper purpose behind every mile. Being part of a Gold Star and Surviving community reminds her of the responsibility she carries to keep her brother’s memory alive and to honor the service and sacrifice of all loved ones who are gone but never forgotten.

Rebecca believes each step she takes is a step Zac never got to take himself, but one he now takes through her. She often reminds herself, “I am greater and stronger than my grief,” a mantra that guides her through difficult moments. As a storyteller and keeper of memories, Rebecca continues to move forward with purpose, carrying Zac’s adventurous spirit and love for life into every mile she runs.