My Own Son Didn't Listen

After my son's funeral, I heard that Oklahoma's proposed belt law was in trouble. So I went to Oklahoma City to meet with the governor and several legislators. I told them my story and pleaded with them to do what they could to pass this bill. It passed, and I now know that it will save lives.

I have since told my story to the Ohio legislature, which is considering a stronger belt law similar to Oklahoma's. I plan to keep telling it because I think it's time we made protecting lives with seat belts as important as other traffic laws.

I know that when I go back to my job, each time I fly to a crash scene I will be reminded of the terrible day when I lost my son. But I also will carry a little hope that Nik's life can make a difference. And that by telling his story, it may help to improve our laws and save lives.

HANIG is a Life Flight nurse from Broken Arrow, Okla.

© 1997