TOO MANY LIVES LOST ON ROADS
“It’s ironic that when you go through a tragedy, you appreciate more. You realize how fragile life is and that there are so many things to still be thankful for.”
This quote from American author Adam Grant rings very true for too many in our province right now. In recent months, the people of Saskatchewan have been required to face the pain of losing people to a degree that is heartbreaking.
Today, in Rosetown, a beautiful family of five will be laid to rest. A service will be held for Troy Gasper, 26, his wife Carissa Gasper, 28 and their children Kael, 6, Shea, 4, and Maks, 2. A crash at the start of the Canada Day long weekend, in which a 71-year-old woman from the Swift Current area also died, claimed the family’s lives.
The investigation into that collision is not closed, and there are many questions lingering. This is also true for the investigation into the incident that killed 16 people on the Humboldt Broncos team bus on April 6.
“Why” is the most used question in this province at this moment in history. The wait for answers is agonizing.
During this period of limbo, it is not necessary to remain helpless. Although we do not have all the reasons for these crashes, it is possible for Saskatchewan residents to actively, helpfully respond in the way we have become so famous for doing.
There is a GoFundMe page raising money for a child’s play structure in Rosetown in memory of the Gasper family. It is already approaching its $75,000 goal, but there is still some room to contribute.
STARS Air Ambulance is embarking on a major fundraising campaign to replace its fleet of helicopters. Each aircraft costs about $13 million. This service is vitally important to quick emergency service in Saskatchewan, Alberta and Manitoba and is deserving of full support from the population it serves.
Around the province, there are foundations for the hospitals serving our community. Giving to these charities to support ERs and treatment facilities is an investment in saving lives.
We must do all we can to keep the coming weeks and months free from more vehicular deaths. Don’t drink and drive and take action to stop those who are headed in that direction. Put your phone and other devices away while driving. If you are tired while out on the road, pull over and rest. Make sure your vehicle is in good, roadworthy conditions before heading out.
The reaction to recent tragedy should involve an outpouring of action. Those of us left behind must treasure life and do all we can to protect it.