Play for Ash

Tears flowed freely down my face, the hands that clasped mine tightening their grip. In a room filled with solemn silence, interrupted only by the muffled sounds of sniffles, we gathered as Ash’s organs were being selflessly donated. Ash was a student at Plainfield High School who was in a tragic car accident her senior year. Distracted by her phone while attempting to change a song, Ash made a head-on collision with a bus as she drove her and her sister home from school. That evening, my friend rushed to my house, overcome with tears, sharing the heartbreaking news of Ash’s condition. She sadly passed away the next morning.

The morning announcements were solemn as they held in tribute to Ash. She was an important part of our marching band so the band room was to be kept open as a sanctuary for anyone needing to grieve. My friend burst into tears next to me as I escorted her out of the classroom and to the band room downstairs, emotions overwhelming the both of us. As I walked back to class I burst into tears. Unable to contain them, I hid in the bathroom trying to understand this new concept of death. The next period I joined everyone in the band room as we found comfort in one another while playing games and shedding tears in memory of Ash. Around one, Ash was scheduled to have surgery to donate her organs. The room gathered around as we held hands and bent our heads in prayer as she selflessly helped another person. We sat there for a while, the silence comforting us. Ash’s instrument, the xylophone, sat out as classmates left gifts and memories on top of it. By the end of the school day, my life had been forever changed.

Continuing this tragedy, the band held all of their performances in remembrance of her. A beautiful portrait of Ash displayed in the center, the band played with soul and emotion as beautiful colors flew around the room. Her instrument sat out in her usual place filled with the gifts and memories friends had placed on it that school day. The audience roared with applause for the beautiful performance but filled with agony for Ash’s friends and wonderful family. From that day forward, the band’s new motto would be #PlayForAsh. I believe that Ash’s accident can be used to help educate young drivers that driving is incredibly dangerous and it is a privilege, not for sport.

To this day, anytime I find myself picking up my phone to change a song or answer a call from my mom while driving, I feel guilt surge through me. Stories like Ash’s are a reminder of why it is imperative to know the rules of the road and practice safe driving. Drivers ed is a great way for new drivers to begin to get familiar with driving and the dangers that come with it. Drivers ed equips student drivers with the knowledge of road signs, how to navigate through traffic, and the importance of maintaining focus on the road. It also touches on the consequences of driving recklessly and that it cannot be taken lightly. It is vital that every driver is put through a good drivers program so the birth of a responsible and safe driver is born. Ultimately, drivers ed is a great way to help reduce road fatalities and make driving safer for everyone.

To help prevent these fatalities, there are many steps we as a people can take to help reduce the number of deaths related to driving. The enforcement of traffic laws are the most essential way of helping reduce these numbers, ensuring that drivers and yourself are adhering to the speed limits, are not driving impaired, and are avoiding distractions. Drivers ed is once again a great way to keep new drivers educated on road rules which can help prevent the amount of car related deaths each year. Properly repair roads, make sure road signs are large and clear to read, and ensure there are street lights so the driver is able to visualize the road and cars around them. Lastly, the best way to do this is by spreading stories like Ash’s. For young drivers especially, they are more focused on the excitement of obtaining a license and are blinded to the dangers that come with it. Continuing to educate them and share these stories will help them realize that driving really isn’t all that glamorous.

Driving recklessly can cause someone to lose a sibling, a child, or a friend. One simple mistake on the road can cost a life. I am committed to sharing Ash’s story so drivers can understand that the precautions we must take when behind the wheel are serious while reminding them that car accidents are very real and can affect anyone. Although I did not get the chance to know Ash very well, her story will always touch my heart, urging me to be a conscientious and responsible driver.