Mary Janssen has been an acquaintance since Season 1, when we recorded “Tate’s Army” with Ryan Manahl. We met in person in August of 2021, at the annual golf outing to benefit Tate’s Army Foundation, Inc. It was a year later that I had voiced my interest to Mary about pursuing an episode with Jaxon Hansen. I can’t recall the exact conversation, but Mary had mentioned her close connection with the Hansen family through the Cedar Falls Tigers Football team. Mary assured me she could deliver this information and we ended our chat.
Anxiously awaiting his arrival due to inclement weather, I stood outside in the drizzle.
Unsure of what to expect I watched—scanning every vehicle in an attempt to visually welcome Jaxon, simultaneously easing some of my own anxieties. The van appeared around the corner, two young men upfront cruising down the block in this white Dodge Caravan. They parked in front of the studio, and I made haste to greet them.
From the second Jaxon rolled off the ramp of the van, he was accompanied by this friend. The friend was swift at the door and immediately fell into his role. This role was one, I could tell, he was very accustomed to being immersed in. Every sidewalk blemish, narrow doorway, anything that could pose a hazard was cleared by this friend—deftly forging ahead of Jaxon and me.
We gathered in the podcast booth and conversation flowed, almost immediately. Jaxon had mentioned he would be bringing a friend along with close ties to the accident, to help us through the murky parts of his story. He introduced the friend as Caeden, and I reached for the young man’s hand. The youthful gentleman introduced himself as, Caeden Janssen. It took me far too long to make the connection, and I’m sure the boys realized the lightbulb moment when I put it all together.
“Aunt Mary” as she’s referred to by every CF Tiger I’ve met since the episode, had watched from the sidelines most of these boys’ lives. She’s family in both the literal and the figurative sense—as she is a huge supporter of everything Cedar Falls, and Caeden “Drip” Janssen is her nephew. When I needed a connection to the story, Mary helped us out and this episode wouldn’t have happened without her facilitation.
It can’t go without being said the amount of gratitude I have toward you: Jaxon, Dave, Jess, and the entire Hansen family—for trusting me with such an intimate piece of your past. I’m honored by the trust you have placed in me, and I appreciate everything you’ve given me.
To the young men whose lives were forever changed because of this accident, the incredible strength you’ve developed by getting through this valley will prove a valuable asset for the rest of your lives. Never forget the power of the people closest to you in times of trouble; moreover, always remember that with your team you can accomplish anything!
Lastly, this podcast wouldn’t be possible without thousands of listeners and all the support received along the way. This specific episode wouldn’t have even been achievable without the help of people who believe in the work we’re doing! Thanks for vouching for me, Aunt Mary! See you in Fayette, “GO PEACOCKS!”
𝗘𝗻𝗷𝗼𝘆 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗿𝗶𝗱𝗲!
