CALGARY- A woman whose son died in a motorcycle crash is issuing an urgent plea to drivers, as she tirelessly raises money for the crew who tried to save her son’s life.
Last September, Chris Letourneau was heading to work near Sherwood Park on his bike, when an oncoming truck suddenly turned in front of him. The 22-year-old was airlifted to hospital by STARS, but he died of his injuries.
“If it wasn’t for STARS, my son would have passed away on the side of the road,” his mother Cindy Letourneau says. “They also went down in emergency, and basically stayed with him on my behalf until his last breath.”
She has since raised $38,000 for STARS, and is aiming for the $250,000 mark to get her son’s name on a helicopter. She is also working to educate other drivers.
“My mission is to raise awareness that you need to pay attention behind the wheel.”
She also wants to see two headlights on motorcycles, so they are easier to see. Flight paramedic Greg Barton knows first-hand how vulnerable bikers are, as a motorcyclist himself.
“Riding with increased vigilance would be the best way to go about ensuring that you’re safe,” he recommends. “Things can change very quickly.”
He also suggests riders have proper equipment and undergo safety training.
Last year, STARS responded to 46 serious motorcycle and dirt bike incidents in Alberta.
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