Young life lost

[lilyflower_1978]

My cousin, Kirk, wasn't even 16 when he passed away. He had been on an outing with his dad and several other family members fishing and turtle hunting. On Father's Day he asked if he could take the boat out himself and do a little fishing. When he was a ways off from shore his father noticed that his life vest was sitting on the ground and tried unsuccessfully to get Kirk's attention. Several hours past and soon the group became concerned. After getting another boat in the water they found the other one motor still running beached on a tiny island in the river and no sign of Kirk. The search took four days before another fisherman saw the body. I feel so bad for my uncle because I know he often blames himself. I was just starting to get close to Kirk as well. I know this week is National Boating Safety Week and most people don't even know that. I felt it would be appropriate to share his story this week. Please take every precaution when you are out on a boat for any reason.

[tater03]

I am sorry for your loss. What happened to your cousin is so tragic. Thanks for reminding us that it is National Boat Safety Week. I had no clue that this was this week.

[Calypso]

Thank you for sharing your sad and moving story. I hope it will save the lives of other kids who don't think safety jackets are important. I hope your uncle is able to be gentle and forgive himself. After all, he couldn't have known what was going to happen.

[debrajean]

Originally Posted by Calypso

Thank you for sharing your sad and moving story. I hope it will save the lives of other kids who don't think safety jackets are important. I hope your uncle is able to be gentle and forgive himself. After all, he couldn't have known what was going to happen.

Absolutely never get on any boat without a lifevest. They're made to protect and keep you safe.

[moonmagick]

That is good advice. We are going on a family boating trip soon. And I am nervous as can be about taking our young son.

[SageMother]

I can't imagine how devastating this was for your family, but especially your uncle. How has he coped with the circumstances surrounding the loss?

[debrajean]

Originally Posted by tater03

I am sorry for your loss. What happened to your cousin is so tragic. Thanks for reminding us that it is National Boat Safety Week. I had no clue that this was this week.

I was unaware of this as well. It's little reminders like these that need to be spread so that others don't let tragedy happen.

[debrajean]

Originally Posted by lilyflower_1978

My cousin, Kirk, wasn't even 16 when he passed away. He had been on an outing with his dad and several other family members fishing and turtle hunting. On Father's Day he asked if he could take the boat out himself and do a little fishing. When he was a ways off from shore his father noticed that his life vest was sitting on the ground and tried unsuccessfully to get Kirk's attention. Several hours past and soon the group became concerned. After getting another boat in the water they found the other one motor still running beached on a tiny island in the river and no sign of Kirk. The search took four days before another fisherman saw the body. I feel so bad for my uncle because I know he often blames himself. I was just starting to get close to Kirk as well. I know this week is National Boating Safety Week and most people don't even know that. I felt it would be appropriate to share his story this week. Please take every precaution when you are out on a boat for any reason.

How tragic and heartbreaking! The burden of your uncle's guilt needs to be lifted so he can begin to heal. And it's sad that you were getting to know Kirk and he was taken away. Cherish the memories you did have with him.

[ssleutz]

I am sorry. I go out on a boat fishing with my husband several times a year. I always make sure to wear a life vest all the time i am out on the water. I never take the water for granted. Even though most people can swim if they were to trip and fall out of their boat and hit their head they could still drown. Everyone be careful in the water.

[janus76]

i feel very sorry for you and your family but try not think about the fact that they would want you to carry on living your life in their passing