Podcast Summary: "I Watched My Twin Sister Die"

Podcast Information:

• Title: We're All Insane
• Host/Author: Devorah Roloff
• Episode: I Watched My Twin Sister Die
• Release Date: March 16, 2025

Introduction

In the poignant episode titled "I Watched My Twin Sister Die," host Devorah Roloff welcomes Dinah Schaefer, an 18-year-old from Minnesota, who courageously shares the heart-wrenching story of witnessing her identical twin sister Gina's tragic death. Dinah delves deep into her personal journey of grief, faith, and resilience, offering listeners an unfiltered glimpse into the raw emotions and lessons learned from such a profound loss.

Childhood and Sibling Bond

Dinah begins by painting a vivid picture of her close-knit family. Growing up as part of the "crazy adventurous family," she describes countless adventures with her siblings, especially her twin sister Gina. Their bond was unbreakable, often inseparable and involved in shared activities like dancing, soccer, singing, and leading worship at their church.

• Notable Quote:
  "Gina and I were just those twins that were inseparable... if Gina was sick, I'd be so anxious because I didn't even know how to walk by myself." [00:00]

Dinah emphasizes the strength of her family's Christian foundation, highlighting the supportive and encouraging environment provided by their parents, Amy and Joe.

The Final Summer of 2024

Fast forwarding to the summer of 2024, Dinah recounts the achievements and experiences leading up to the tragic event. Both she and Gina graduated high school with 4.0 GPAs, serving as valedictorians. This period was marked by a sense of accomplishment and the excitement of upcoming college plans. The summer was also filled with meaningful activities, including mission trips, church camps, and adventurous outings like an RV trip with friends.

• Notable Quote:
  "We went on this dirt bike trip out west... we just love adventures like that." [03:14]

Despite their busy schedules, Dinah and Gina remained deeply connected, sharing plans and dreams for the future, such as attending separate colleges in Florida but remaining an hour apart.

The Day Before the Accident

On July 31, 2024, the day before their planned dirt bike trip, Dinah shares a significant moment of foreboding. While packing their bikes, Gina expressed a serene acceptance of mortality, calmly stating her desire to be cremated and her unwavering faith that she would go to heaven.

• Notable Quote:
  "If I die, on this adventure, just know that I'll be doing something fun... I know I'm going to heaven, so I'm okay." [06:45]

This revelation, though not alarming to Dinah at the moment, would later gain profound significance.

The Accident: August 1, 2024

The tragic event unfolded on August 1, 2024, Dinah's half-birthday, during their dirt bike expedition through North Dakota and Wyoming. As they navigated rural highways, Dinah noticed her father's speeding behavior, which preceded the collision.

• Notable Quote:
  "As soon as I saw the collision... I've just tried to run up and help her." [23:16]

Dinah witnessed Gina collide with a tanker truck from behind. Reacting instinctively, she raced to Gina's side, grappling with disbelief and desperation. Amid the chaos, a nearby motorcyclist confirmed Gina's death, leaving Dinah and her father in profound shock.

• Notable Quote:
  "There is no pulse. She's in the middle of the road, dead." [24:31]

Immediate Aftermath and Support

In the immediate aftermath, Dinah and her father grappled with the scene, hindered by both the physical chaos and the arrival of first responders who prioritized assisting them. The presence of a compassionate pastor's wife provided much-needed comfort, offering prayers and emotional support.

• Notable Quote:
  "She offered to drive us up to the airport and then stay at their church until our uncle landed." [35:27]

Dinah describes moments of divine comfort, such as dreaming of Gina assuring her that she would be okay, reinforcing her steadfast faith amidst unimaginable grief.

Funeral and Grieving Process

The week following the accident was a period of intense mourning and healing. Dinah spearheaded the funeral planning, ensuring that Gina's life was celebrated in a manner befitting her vibrant spirit. The funeral, held at a Catholic church adorned with peacocks—Gina's favorite animal—was lauded for its uplifting atmosphere, serving as a source of inspiration and faith for attendees.

• Notable Quote:
  "Our funeral was the most encouraging funeral people have ever been to... showcasing how Gina lived." [77:16]

Dinah established the "Live Like Gina Foundation" shortly after the tragedy, aiming to honor Gina's legacy through acts of kindness, support for families, and community service projects.

Building the Live Like Gina Foundation

Driven by a desire to keep Gina's memory alive and to assist others facing similar losses, Dinah launched the Live Like Gina Foundation. The foundation focuses on promoting love, kindness, and preparing for eternity in heaven, aligning with Gina's values and faith.

• Mission Statement:
  "To honor the beautiful and faithful life that Gina lived. By doing this, we hope to encourage others to live like her—be kind, helpful, and loving." [78:29]

The foundation supports individuals, families, and organizations that embody Gina's spirit through financial gifts and service projects, fostering a community centered on faith and compassion.

Personal Reflections and Growth

Throughout the episode, Dinah shares her journey of healing, emphasizing the importance of embracing joy amidst grief. She highlights practices such as maintaining a joy journal to focus on positive moments and nurturing her faith to find peace.

• Notable Quote:
  "I make sure I'm a happy person with sad moments, not the other way around... why wouldn't you allow the little things to overtake you?" [82:12]

Dinah also discusses her plans to travel and share her story, aiming to inspire others and spread Gina's legacy. She is in the process of writing two books: one detailing their childhood and the story of the accident, and another serving as a 30-day devotional focused on finding joy in grief.

• Notable Quote:
  "My goal is to honor Gina with all that I do while glorifying the Lord with everything I do." [78:32]

Conclusion: Embracing Faith and Moving Forward

Dinah concludes by reinforcing the message that grief does not have to consume one's life. She encourages listeners to trust in a higher plan, cherish joyful moments, and continue living in a manner that honors loved ones who have passed.

• Notable Quote:
  "The Lord is the same in the valleys as he is on the mountaintops... trust him with your whole heart. It does get easier if you allow it to." [84:37]

Dinah's heartfelt narrative serves as a testament to resilience, faith, and the enduring bond between siblings, offering solace and inspiration to those navigating their own paths through grief.

Additional Resources:

• Live Like Gina Foundation Website: livelikegina.org
• Dinah Lillian Music on Instagram and TikTok: Search for "Dinah Lillian Music"
• Gina Shaffer Funeral Video: Search "Gina Shaffer Funeral" on YouTube

Final Thoughts

Dinah's story is a powerful reminder of the strength of family bonds, the importance of faith, and the possibility of finding light even in the darkest times. Her ability to transform personal tragedy into a mission to help others exemplifies the resilience of the human spirit and the profound impact one life can have on many.