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Benefit held in remembrance of toddlers killed
Community members came together today in remembrance of two Hastings toddlers struck and killed by cars this summer.
The loss of these boys shocked the town of Hastings, but today they celebrated. It was the Celebration of Life Ride. "Pay attention to your children," said Terrance Ruff, Tryson's father. "Love them. They're here. Love them while they're here, because tomorrow is not a promise." A reminder from a grieving father, not even two months after the passing of his son. Two year old, Tryson Ruff, was struck and killed by a car in July. Weeks later 19 month old, Roy Lagunas Jr. suffered the same fate. But there is hope and happiness. Community members celebrated the life of both boys with a poker run. It was filled with motorcycles, poker and entertainment. "It's just a fun thing to do," said Betsy Wynn, a fundraiser organizer. "There's so many people around here that just love doing it." A fun time with a lesson. "If we can just get the word out to maybe slow down and parents maybe keep your kids a little bit closer," said Tiffany Lacey, a fundraiser organizer. Organizers Tiffany and Betsy are both mothers. They say this tragedy hits close to home. "I know that they're quick. They're fast," Wynn said. "If you're not watching them every second they can get out of your reach." Laughs and smiles were shared often, but it was an emotional day for the families of both boys. "It just made us cry at how much people care and continue to care," said Sharon Bouton, Tryson's grandmother. Roy's family showed up in matching t-shirts with his picture. They're still grieving their loss. "It's like a little angel, a little kid that's not at home anymore," said Omar Lagunas, Roy Jr.'s uncle. "It's really sad." Today is a reminder of the impact the two toddlers have on this community. "Our family will never be the same without him," Bouton said. "We all have to go on and knowing that we're going to meet in heaven in the end; it helps us." Both families expressed sincere gratitude for the events today, and the outpouring of support they have received since the accidents. Nearly 80 people registered for the poker run. The organizers hope to raise $3,000 from the fundraiser. The money will be split between both families. |
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