Lauren Sisler

12/13/2024

I’ve been sitting with this post for a while, unsure of how to share what’s on my heart.

The truth is, there are no perfect words—because life isn’t perfect.

As some of you may know, my family and I are walking through an incredibly difficult season right now after the loss of my brother. To say this has been one of the hardest times in my life feels like an understatement.

Grief has a way of blindsiding you, pulling the rug out from under you, and leaving you unsure of how to take the next step. Stepping back into work, standing on the sidelines, and putting on a brave face has felt like climbing a mountain.

I’ve questioned whether I could even do it. But a friend reminded me, “Getting back out there is a personal victory, even if no one else knows what you’re going through.” That stuck with me.

Sometimes, just showing up is enough. Sometimes, it’s OK not to have it all together.

If you’re navigating your own difficult season, know that you’re not alone.

Especially during the holidays, when the world seems wrapped in joy and celebration, it’s easy to feel isolated in your struggles. But you’re not.

I don’t have all the answers, but I’m committed to showing up—raw, real, and authentically me. I’ll keep sharing what I learn along the way.

Your grace, understanding, and support means the world to me.

With all my heart, thank you! ❤️

11/23/2024

My brother Allen made a lasting impact on everyone who knew him. He will be missed, but never ever forgotten.

In the two weeks since his passing, the outpouring of love and support for our family has been extraordinary. That’s where Allen’s spirit has shown up in the most beautiful way. The stories that have been shared and the memories so many have recounted about Allen—whether they met him just once or knew him for nearly a lifetime—paint the same picture. He was that kind of guy.

Allen had a love for life and lived for the “thrill.” There wasn’t much he did that didn’t carry some sort of risk. Sometimes, it would leave you shaking your head, saying, “Only Allen!” And you know, I think only Allen could bring together his closest family, military brothers, friends, and community the way he did last Saturday at his memorial service.

The sun shone so brightly over “God’s Country,” soaking the Blue Ridge Mountain tops in its beauty. The 21-gun salute, followed by the playing of Taps, echoed across the open field and into the church as light beamed through the windows. Even a big buck stood quietly in the grass next to the church while a memorial video played, illustrating Allen’s journey through life.

With heavy hearts, there were many tears. But through those tears, there was also a lot of laughter from the stories told and the memories shared. Allen’s presence filled our sweet little church in Newport, Virginia, with such joy. How is that possible in a time of such loss and sorrow? Only Allen.

I know the journey ahead will be long and winding, with many sharp turns and uncertainties, much like Spruce Run, the road that always led him back home. But one thing I know for certain, Allen has climbed that stairway to Heaven and come face-to-face with our good Lord. He is whole again. Made new. Free from all pain and suffering. Rejoicing with Mom and Dad once again!

One day, I’ll see you again, brother. Mom and Dad too. Until then, rest in peace.

I love you, A-Sis! ❤️

11/16/2024

We are ready to bring my brother Allen back home to "God's Country" and lay him to rest. Thank you all for your love, support, and prayers during this time. The stories and memories you’ve shared about Allen have been so uplifting. He touched so many lives and was truly one-of-a-kind. He will be missed but never, ever forgotten.
I love you A-Sis! ❤️

Allen Preston Sisler, 42, went home to be with our Lord in Heaven on November 8, 2024. He was born on March 7, 1982, at the naval base in Millington, Tennessee, to the late George Butch Sisler Jr. and Lesley Dornbush Sisler. Raised in Roanoke and Newport, Virginia, Allen graduated

11/14/2024

On November 8, 2024, my brother Allen went to be with the Lord in Heaven. As he and I have turned so many pages in this book of life together, it’s hard to find the words to close out this chapter. I wasn’t ready to say goodbye. I’m not ready for it to be over.

The best I can do, as I sit here reflecting on our lives together, is hold on tight to the extraordinary bond that we shared. It was an amazing gift, one that can only be described by the love that fills my heart when I think of you Allen. I came into this world two and a half years after you, and you took me under your wing. You were my big brother, my protector, and my biggest fan alongside Mom and Dad. And I was the proud little sister, tagging along, learning what it meant to be a Sisler.

I loved spending all those days running around the ball field, watching you earn your nickname “Hatchet.” And all of those road trips we took together for my gymnastics meets. I remember those days of us running around Castle Rock, playing flashlight tag, building forts, and riding our bikes up to the pool. How about that time you convinced me to jump out the back window of our house on Hereford onto the trampoline?! There wasn’t a whole lot that scared you and well, if Allen was doing it, so was I!

When we moved to Giles, I felt like the cool kid, riding shotgun to school with my big bro in his big blue jacked up F150 listening to AC/DC, Metallica, and Guns N’ Roses. We shared a few hobbies, hunting however wasn’t one of them. You loved to torture me, leaving the truck bed open to see your favorite 8 point trophies on display. I did however love watching you and your team take laps around NRV Speedway. First on race day baby!

You loved NASCAR. So do I. You loved the Redskins. So do I. You loved the Hokies. So do I. You loved classic rock. So do I. You loved our country and the men and women who have selflessly served with you. So do I. You loved God. So do I.

After graduating from Giles High School, I watched you go after your dreams, following in Dad’s footsteps, serving in the Navy. 12 years. Three deployments. You carried those stars and stripes with great pride.

In 2016, you packed up and moved down to Alabama where we could finally be a little closer. Closing one chapter and starting another, we continued the Sisler legacy together.

It was us, doing this life together. We shared a lifetime of memories Allen, and those I will cherish forever. You were one-of-a-kind, leaving your mark with family and friends, everywhere you went and with every word spoken.

As I close my eyes, I see you up there, your arms wrapped around Mom and Dad, with the biggest smile on your face and that sweet little twinkle in your eyes.

Now It’s time to get you back home to the mountains of Virginia, to God’s Country, to lay you to rest.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, November 16, 2024, at Oak View Christian Church, 1649 Spruce Run Road, Newport, Virginia, from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. The memorial service will follow at 2:00 p.m., where Military Honors will be presented by the U.S. Navy and American Legion Posts 68, 311, and 415. He will later be laid to rest with our mom and dad at the Virginia Veterans Cemetery in Amelia Courthouse.

Thank you all for your love and support. And most of all, thank you for loving Allen! ❤️

I love you A-Sis.
Team Sis.
Forever…

11/13/2024

On November 8, 2024, my brother Allen went to be with the Lord in Heaven. As he and I have turned so many pages in this book of life together, it’s hard to find the words to close out this chapter. I wasn’t ready to say goodbye. I’m not ready for it to be over.

The best I can do, as I sit here reflecting on our lives together, is hold on tight to the extraordinary bond that we shared. It was an amazing gift, one that can only be described by the love that fills my heart when I think of you Allen. I came into this world two and a half years after you, and you took me under your wing. You were my big brother, my protector, and my biggest fan alongside Mom and Dad. And I was the proud little sister, tagging along, learning what it meant to be a Sisler.

I loved spending all those days running around the ball field, watching you earn your nickname “Hatchet.” And all of those road trips we took together for my gymnastics meets. I remember those days of us running around Castle Rock, playing flashlight tag, building forts, and riding our bikes up to the pool. How about that time you convinced me to jump out the back window of our house on Hereford onto the trampoline?! There wasn’t a whole lot that scared you and well, if Allen was doing it, so was I!

When we moved to Giles, I felt like the cool kid, riding shotgun to school with my big bro in his big blue jacked up F150 listening to AC/DC, Metallica, and Guns N’ Roses. We shared a few hobbies, hunting however wasn’t one of them. You loved to torture me, leaving the truck bed open to see your favorite 8 point trophies on display. I did however love watching you and your team take laps around NRV Speedway. First on race day baby!

You loved NASCAR. So do I. You loved the Redskins. So do I. You loved the Hokies. So do I. You loved classic rock. So do I. You loved our country and the men and women who have selflessly served with you. So do I. You loved God. So do I.

After graduating from Giles High School, I watched you go after your dreams, following in Dad’s footsteps, serving in the Navy. 12 years. Three deployments. You carried those stars and stripes with great pride.

In 2016, you packed up and moved down to Alabama where we could finally be a little closer. Closing one chapter and starting another, we continued the Sisler legacy together.

It was us, doing this life together. We shared a lifetime of memories Allen, and those I will cherish forever. You were one-of-a-kind, leaving your mark with family and friends, everywhere you went and with every word spoken.

As I close my eyes, I see you up there, your arms wrapped around Mom and Dad, with the biggest smile on your face and that sweet little twinkle in your eyes.

Now It’s time to get you back home to the mountains of Virginia, to God’s Country, to lay you to rest.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, November 16, 2024, at Oak View Christian Church, 1649 Spruce Run Road, Newport, Virginia, from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. The memorial service will follow at 2:00 p.m., where Military Honors will be presented by the U.S. Navy and American Legion Posts 68, 311, and 415. He will later be laid to rest with our mom and dad at the Virginia Veterans Cemetery in Amelia Courthouse.

Thank you all for your love and support. And most of all, thank you for loving Allen! ❤️

I love you A-Sis.
Team Sis.
Forever…

11/08/2024

Y'all always ask me what it's like to be an ESPN sideline reporter. Let me tell you, it's a whirlwind! 🌪️

From the early morning prep to the late-night wrap-up, it's a busy life. But it's a life I wouldn't trade for the world. I get to travel the country, meet incredible athletes, and witness history in the making. It's a dream come true.

Being an ESPN sideline reporter takes hard work, long hours, and a whole lot of passion. I wouldn't trade it for the world.

11/01/2024

“No man, you gotta keep going. What are you gonna do, quit? That’s not an option. You gotta keep on keepin’ on. Life’s a garden, dig it and you make it work for you. You never give up man, that’s my philosophy.”
—Joe Dirt

Thankful I could delay my CFB travel so I could be home to trick or treat with our little dude. I’ve gotta get back on the road, however, I think Mason’s mullet might stick around for a little while.🤣

Hope y’all had a Happy Halloween!! 🎃👻

10/30/2024

Hey y’all! Ever wondered about my sideline shimmy? Well, it’s more than just dance moves. That nervous knot in my stomach when I'm about to step onto the field or into the spotlight is like no other. Instead of letting it hold me back, I choose to shake it off with a little shimmy. It's my way of saying, "I'm ready to take on the world! Let's goooooo!!" 💪 So next time you're feeling nervous, remember: a little dance or body movement can go a long way. Let's shake off those worries and embrace the moment! 💃

10/23/2024

Last week, I had the incredible honor of being the keynote speaker and panel moderator at the FOCUS rally! We dove into conversations about the tough but important topics of drug use prevention, mental health, and making positive choices. I was so inspired by the students and educators who are leaning in, having these conversations, and working toward a brighter, healthier future. The energy in the room was undeniable, and I’m grateful to Sue Jones for the opportunity to share my story and hear theirs. 💙

10/21/2024

After a wild weekend of travel, we made it to Lubbock for Mason’s 2nd football game! 🏈 My little MVP is already perfecting his sideline shimmy, and Auntie joined the fun too. Between the laughs, snacks, and Mason’s dance moves, we turned a chaotic weekend into unforgettable memories!

10/15/2024

Don't forget to RSVP for my Shatterproof Book Launch Party in Birmingham, AL! Click the link below. 🔗

October 15, 2024 @ 4:00 PM - Inverness Country Club - 1 Country Club Dr, Birmingham, AL 35242, USA

10/15/2024

In times like these, there’s no place like home. The devastation from Hurricane Helene has shaken Giles County and the New River Valley, but the way our community has come together has been nothing short of inspiring. Rebuilding is tough, and the road ahead will have its challenges—but I know the heart and strength of our hometown.

Virginia Tech and so many local groups are stepping up to provide the resources and support needed to help families rebuild and recover. If you’re looking for ways to lend a hand, the link below offers ways you can get involved.

Whether through donations, volunteering, or simply showing kindness, every act of support makes a difference.🤍

If you are looking to support the greater Appalachia area, please use this website to find recovery efforts in many areas that have been impacted by Hurricane Helene.

10/14/2024

Y’all, an unexpected weekend off during football season – what a gift! 🎉 Got to celebrate my birthday with John and Mason, hang out with friends, and soak up all the fun at the Fall Fest in Mt. Laurel 🍂🎃 I even squeezed in some tennis and tackled a few things around the house (finally!) I also loved being back at on such a gorgeous Sunday morning. My heart is full. ❤️

Grateful for the pause, the people, and these moments to recharge before diving back into the college football season.

10/10/2024

Hey Birmingham friends, are you ready to celebrate the launch of Shatterproof?🎉 Drop in at Inverness Country Club on October 15th as we celebrate the release of my new book, Shatterproof. The event will feature a live broadcast and Q&A with The Next Round. RSVP today and come hang with us! 🤗

October 15, 2024 @ 4:00 PM - Inverness Country Club - 1 Country Club Dr, Birmingham, AL 35242, USA

10/10/2024

Hey Birmingham friends, are you ready to celebrate the launch of Shatterproof? 🎉

Drop in at Inverness Country Club on October 15th as we celebrate the release of my new book, Shatterproof. The event will feature a live broadcast and Q&A with The Next Round.

RSVP today at the link in my bio and come hang with us! 🤗

10/09/2024

Grateful to you Daniel Matthews and Ben Nagle for the feature in the Daily Mail Sport! Your thoughtful questions really helped me open up and share my heart. It’s so meaningful to have my voice and story captured in a way that can inspire others. Thank you for this opportunity ❤️

'It's like someone takes a baseball bat to your life and shatters it into a million pieces.' That’s how I describe the moment everything changed for me. Two decades later, the scars of that day still linger—in my response to the smell of cut grass, my reaction to college football stars popping pills, the questions I ask coaches, the way I gave birth, and even the conversations I want to have with my 15-month-old son, Mason.

Being immersed in the world of sports, I’ve seen firsthand the struggles athletes face—battles with mental health, addiction, and personal adversity. By sharing my story, I hope to remind athletes and others that it’s okay to be vulnerable and that they are not alone. We all have the strength to take those shattered pieces and become shatterproof, no matter how tough the journey.

INTERVIEW BY DANIEL MATTHEWS: In March 2003, when Lauren was just 18, her dad called. Mom Lesley had died at just 45. By the time she had flown home, her father was gone, too. He was 52.

10/09/2024

I’ve got to give a special shoutout to Coach Lance Leipold for his incredible support of my new book Shatterproof! 🙌 Your belief in the power of resilience, on and off the field, resonates deeply with my story, and I’m truly grateful for your encouragement. Thank you for not only standing behind Shatterproof but for exemplifying what it means to push through adversity with grace and grit. I appreciate you Coach! 💙

10/06/2024

It’s surreal and humbling to see my story featured in the New York Post today. There’s a mix of gratitude, reflection, and hope as I share such a personal part of my life, and my family’s. Telling this story has been a journey of healing, and my greatest wish is that it helps others find their own strength in tough times.

A heartfelt thank you to Raquel Laneri for the time and care you put into capturing this. Your thoughtful approach made all the difference. Tamara Beckwith, the photos are beautiful. And to the New York Post, thank you for giving my story a platform.

Sharing isn’t always easy, but it’s a reminder that even in our hardest moments, we can inspire others by being open and real. We’re never alone in our struggles, and my hope is that by breaking the silence, we create space for healing.

ESPN sideline reporter Lauren Sisler’s dad called her in the middle of the night to say her mother had died. Hours later, he, too was dead of a fentanyl overdose.