Cross-posted at www.RichardRenner.org.
Personal Note: I met Alec's father, Patrick, in the summer of 2008 when I was campaigning door-to-door. I remember our conversation very well, because it wasn't about the usual subjects of property taxes, road maintenance, and the like. Instead, Mr. Ash wanted to talk about recreational activities for young people in our area. He was especially interested in a better skateboard park in Lake City. This summer, when Lake City was constructing a new skateboard park, Mr. Ash's son, Alec, was part of a group of local skateboarders who helped design it. They are a wonderful family, facing an unimaginable tragedy, which needs our help. If you can make a donation, directions to do so are located at the end of this story. The Ash family has no insurance.
From the Cadillac News, Published December 3, 2009...
LAKE CITY - For people looking to help a Lake City family in a time of need, there now is a way.
A benefit fund has been set up at Chemical Bank to help the Ash Family with various medical, travel and other expenses after a devastating crash earlier in the week. Cash or checks can be given to the Ash Family Benefit at any Chemical Bank location.
"They have no insurance, and they will be (in Traverse City) for a while," said Ash family member Tammy Barton.
Alexander "Alec" Ash, 15, died at the scene of the crash Monday after a semi-tractor trailer lost control, crossed the center line, jack-knifed and slid into a car driven by Michelle Ash of Lake City.
Alexander Ash, Michelle's son, was a passenger in the front seat of the car, a Pontiac Grand Am.
The truck was traveling west on M-55 near Menzies Road east of Lake City at around 9:45pm when it collided with the east-bound car.
Barton said Michelle is still in critical condition at Munson Medical Center in Traverse City but is doing as well as can be expected.
"Right now, she is holding her own. They (medical staff) are trying to wean her off a respirator because she has some internal bleeding and they need to do an MRI," Barton said.
Alexander was a sophomore at Lake City High School. He took part in student council government, was involved in the drama program and was a member of the junior varsity basketball team.
Donations to the Ash Family Benefit Fund can be sent to...
Chemical Bank
Post Office Box 749
Lake City, MI 49651
"People are marvelous in their generosity if they just know the cause is there."
- Will Rogers, American humorist, 1879-1935
|
