To the Editor:
During this year’s Memorial Day parade in Newcastle, a boy was injured by a golf cart driven by Frazier Hart. As a member of the Hart family, I wanted to share some thoughts.
First, we want to extend our care and concern to the cub scouts, the Crocettis, and the other boys and families affected by the accident.
It is important to us that we dispel some rumors that may have been floating around the community. Frazier has Down syndrome. According to the National Down Syndrome Society, “All people with Down syndrome experience cognitive delays, but the effect is not indicative of the many strengths and talents that each individual possesses. Positive support from family, friends and the community enable people with Down syndrome to develop their full potential and lead fulfilling lives.”
Born and raised in Lincoln County, Frazier has been blessed with all of the above, including a loving, accepting community. As anyone who knows Frazier can attest, we too have been blessed by his presence in our lives.
Frazier has driven a golf cart for years, and is proud of this skill. He is also a patriot, frequently wearing a hat with an American flag. The parade seemed like a great way for him to participate in a community event that was so meaningful to him. His excitement, joy and pride probably contributed to a moment of inattention that had very unfortunate consequences.
Frazier has a gentle, innocent spirit, and a knack for forming instant friendships with children and adults alike. He would never intentionally cause injury to anyone. Still, no one would have blamed Theo’s mother if she expressed anger and resentment. Instead, she has been kind and reassuring to us,, complete strangers. If I am ever on the other side in similar circumstances, I hope to remember her extraordinary spirit of goodwill.
Anna Myers,
Newcastle
