After a drunk driver hit the van carrying Siran Stacy and his family on Nov. 19, 2007, killing all but his daughter Shelly and himself, his world changed instantly.

“My life was changed forever,” Stacy said. “They said it was the most bloody sight they had ever seen. That was the last time I was with my family.”

Stacy shared his story and encouragement at a special event at Shiloh Baptist Church on Saturday evening.

The Stacy family included Siran, Ellen, their children Bronson, 10, and Ellie, 2; and two of Siran’s children from another marriage, Laquisa Stacy, 18, and Sydney Stacy, 9. Only Siran and one daughter, Shelly, 4, survived the wreck.

Life without his wife has been difficult. “That’s why I struggle with this now,” Stacy said. “She was my best friend. Even when I didn’t deserve it, she honored me and she loved me.”

Now working in full-time ministry with Siran Stacy Ministries, Stacy has found hope in his faith. “I’m not here by happenstance or circumstance,” Stacy said. “I’m here on assignment.”

As part of his ministry work, Stacy has spoken to high school students and within the prison system. He encouraged students to talk about their lives and ambitions because despite the negative things students may hear, they have potential and can become whatever they can dream. “You’ve got to live your actions up to where you’re going,” Stacy said. “Some people just daydream.”

Stacy thanks all those who prayed for him and his daughter. “I wouldn’t be standing her without them,” Stacy said.

Alabama fans know Stacy as a running back for the Crimson Tide from 1989 to 1991, or to Philadelphia Eagles fans know him as the second-round pick in the 1992 national Football League Player Draft.

Stacy will speak again at Shiloh Baptist Church on AL Hwy 41 South at the 10 a.m. service today.