Editor:
Re: Foot severed in walk along the train tracks, April 27.
Thank you for the article regarding the tragic accident resulting in a severe injury to a 41-year-old man walking along the tracks.
I ask that people have empathy for the victim, and fully understand that train accidents happen. We should not be getting worked up over who is at fault, or jumping to false assumptions. An unfortunate combination of events can lead to tragedy in any number of situations.
The victim should not be blamed, and neither should the staff of the train; this is a tragedy where both parties will be traumatized.
Compassion is what is needed in tragedies – not the ‘blame game.’
At the age of 21 – I am now 40 – I was walking my dog, Mickey, along the tracks at Peace Arch Park. Unfortunately, my dog and I got separated by the tracks while the train was just starting to move. I made a bad decision to try to get to the same side of the tracks as my dog by trying to jump on the hitch of the train and then jump down to make sure my dog was safe.
A coupling mechanism closed over my right foot, causing a wound that would require a ‘metatarsal’ – about half – of my foot to be amputated.
No, alcohol was not a factor.
It took years to heal from both the physical and mental trauma. Post-accident, I found a part-time job with a wonderful company that accepts my limitations. Also, I met and married a dazzling young lady whom, ironically, I met while in recovery at Peace Arch Hospital.
The brutality and pain of life can crush the spirit. My condolences to the man who has suffered a terrible misfortune. I understand the terrible pain you must be enduring. I give you my deepest wishes for a strong and speedy recovery. Please continue to endure, tomorrow will offer a better journey.
I also would like to thank Peace Arch News for the front-page article. There are not enough media features warning the general public regarding train safety. The more the public becomes aware of these tragedies, the better the chance that these misfortunes could be avoided.
Spring sunshine on the beachfront will often give people a sense of security. They may not anticipate the extreme danger trains can pose.
Colin Fletcher, White Rock
