Michael Pardee

Just venting among friends...

I think I'm preaching to the choir, but I wanted to remind everybody to
buckle up. Earlier this week a relative was involved in an auto accident
with her 7 year old daughter in the passenger seat. She rear-ended a truck
at an undetermined speed (in town). The belted daughter was unhurt but the
unbelted driver plunged forward onto the steering wheel, which grievously
injured her liver. How she survived long enough to get to the hospital is a
mystery, but she is now recovering. Her chances of survival are estimated
around 75% - although she could suddenly bleed to death anytime in the next
few months. She is not conscious yet. When she does regain consciousness she
won't be happy to learn she must not sit up for many months (details are a
little vague.) If all goes well she should fully recover in a year.

I've been a seat belt fanatic since two of my brothers emerged unhurt from
separate roll-overs back in the 70s. I am saddened and shocked when people
don't buckle up. I just get so tired of seeing senseless tragedy.

Mike