Carolyn Trinter was diagnosed with a brain tumor when she was four years old. After a successful surgery and several years of monitoring, she seemed to have been cured. Then the problem recurred. She underwent four more brain surgeries and intensive treatments.
Although Carolyn started her musical career playing violin and flute, she took up trumpet as her preferred instrument to prepare for being in the marching band. After her final surgery, she lost partial use of an arm and a leg. She desperately wanted to be a member of the Northland High School marching band and follow in the footsteps of her brother Eric.
Carolyn’s parents talked with the director of the marching band, Miss Kate Fitzpatrick, about how she might participate. From the outset Miss Fitzpatrick wanted Carolyn to determine for herself how extensively she would be involved. Carolyn was determined to march and play with the band on the field – and did so in all games but one. Miss Fitzpatrick, showing great sensitivity and compassion, helped Carolyn to make the most of her experience.
Carolyn quietly demonstrated her faith, courage, and determination as she practiced and performed with the Northland High School marching band during her freshman year. Her daily struggles made clear to the band that many of their own problems were not nearly so significant.
The band’s sense of community and loyalty grew even stronger as they increased their efforts to match hers and made sure that she was included and cared for as an important member of the group. At the conclusion of the 2001 marching band season (also known as football season) and at the suggestion of many members in the band, Carolyn Trinter was awarded the first “Most Inspirational Marcher” award by the Northland band.
The band played an important role during her final weeks and was a significant part of her funeral service on September 6, 2002.
Music was a primary means through which Carolyn Trinter showed her determination, faith, and courage. Miss Kate Fitzpatrick demonstrated the powerful, positive impact that a sensitive, capable teacher and leader can have on young people. The students of the Northland High School instrumental music department, while continuing their tradition of excellence, learned and shared many lessons – not simply about music but also about life – and, yes, even about death.
In recognition of her courageous struggle and inspirational life, this God and Country music award is presented posthumously by the Greater Columbus Area Salvation Army and the Brass Band of Columbus to Carolyn R. Trinter
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In recognition of their tradition of musical excellence and their openness to provide opportunities for participation and in recognition of her outstanding, sensitive leadership of young people, this God and Country music award is presented by the Greater Columbus Area Salvation Army and the Brass Band of Columbus to theNorthland High School Instrumental Music Department and Kate R. Fitzpatrick, Director.
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