This morning I was saddened to hear the tragic news that the youngest daughter of Christian music artist Steven Curtis Chapman was killed yesterday.  Maria Sue was 5 years old and the youngest of 6 children in the Chapman clan, three of whom were adopted from China.

I have always had a huge amount of respect for the Chapman family.  They have used the opportunities and blessings they have been given to give back to the community and to the world.  They live their lives sharing the love of God and have been involved in many missions and philanthropic efforts throughout the years.  I loved hearing the story that their oldest daughter felt very strongly that they should adopt a child from China, but it took some time to convince the rest of the family.  Now they are strong supporters of International Adoption and have started Shaohannah’s Hope, a foundation and ministry to financially assist thousands of couples in adoption. 

Another reason I really respect Steven in particular is that he is truly an amazing musician, and I say that as a musical snob.  In my opinion he is a singer, songwriter and instrumentalist of the highest caliber and creativity, no matter what the genre.  http://www.stevencurtischapman.com/   Dude’s got talent.

The Chapman’s story is made even more sad by the fact that their daughter was struck by a car driven by her older brother.  Several family members witnessed the event.  My heart breaks in particular for this young man.  My prayers are with him and his whole family during this tragic time. 

While I do not know the exact details of the Chapman’s tragedy, the news of this non-traffic vehicular accident immediately reminded me of the story of Annabelle.  Annabelle was backed over and killed by a large vehicle in her own driveway while her mother watched helplessly.  Annabelle’s Angels  was founded in part to help in raise awareness about backover accidents.  They and the organization Kids and Cars fight to help prevent future such incidents. Kids and Cars’ mission is “to assure no child dies or is injured in a non-traffic, motor vehicle related event”.   

According to one advocacy group two children a week are killed in backover accidents.  Backovers are the cause of 44% of non-traffic fatalities of children under 15 years old (I have seen statistics as high as 49%).   This is in part due to blind spots and the “bye-bye syndrome”, where children dart out behind a moving car for one last hug.   As vehicles get larger so do the blind spots.  Use of camera technology or an inexpensive rear safety lens can help reduce the risk of blind spots.

Annabelle’s family has found comfort in the fact that they can use their tragedy to help make the world a safer place for our children in the future.  Be safe, back up slowly… and hug your babies tight!

Once again, my thoughts and prayers go out to the entire Chapman family.  May our God of peace and comfort be with you.