Tragedy of Infant Death in Car Results in Crusade for New National Legislation
Kristen Anderson, Feature Editor
The Chronicle
How could anyone leave a baby in a car and forget to take it out of his car seat? To most, this is inconceivable; the reality is that it happens.
On August 15, 2000, Kaitlyn Marie Russell, a happy 6 month old, was left in a van by her babysitter in 100-degree weather. Two hours had passed when the babysitter realized that she had left little Kaitlyn in the car.
The police were called and the baby was rushed to the hospital. On the way, Kaitlyn received CPR.
It was too late. Her body temperature had reached 107 degrees. Kaitlyn was gone.
"How can a person who is being paid to watch a child do this? You have a responsibility," says Mrs. Limmer, instructor of a Child's World.
There are classes on campus that deal with child development and death. This issue should be discussed with anyone and everyone who cares for children or could be potential parents.
An organization has been founded in Kaitlyn's name. 4 R Kids Sake is a non profit organization that spreads the word of the deaths of children left in cars by parents and babysitters.
In Orange County, 27 babies died from heat stroke after being left in the car during the months of June, July and August of 2000.
"I am only 16 years old and would never leave a baby in a car. I can't believe that a parent or an adult could do that," says Stephanie O'Brien, 11th grade, in her Careers with Children class.
"I feel so bad for the parents of this little girl and can't comprehend what pain they are learning to deal with," says Rachel Monsoor, 12th grade in her Careers with Children class. Classes on campus that deal, teach and make people aware of children are Child's World and Careers with Children.
Students learn about the development and functions of children. They are also given the experience of working with children and teaching them.
Students who are enrolled in the development class take home a computerized baby. It feels and acts like a real newborn. The doll monitors every wrong and right movement and responds to rocking, cuddling and shaking.
Tammy Russell, Kaitlyn's mother, is on a crusade to pass the word of infant deaths due to cars to everyone. Her mission is to change legislation and make car manufacturers install alarms that go off when a child is left in the car.
Many who commit this crime are never prosecuted because of the law. It is simply called an "accident."
Kaitlyn's death was 100% preventable. It should have never happened. If public awareness saves one child from this tragedy, then 4 R Kids Sake did its job.
If there is one thing you remember from this article, have it be this; You wouldn't leave your groceries in the car. . .Don't leave another Kaitlyn.
Reprinted with permission of the author.