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Date: 5/27/2022
BELCHERTOWN – Heather Twining and her husband received the worst news of their lives on a trip home from New York two years ago. An ambulance was rushing their 15-year-old son Aaron to the hospital. The boy had attempted suicide. He died two days later.
“We were completely shocked. There were no signs that he was struggling. That’s the hardest part. It’s just so hard,” she said.
Twining is honoring her son’s memory by holding Aaron’s Race 01007. She is calling on families to join in this pinewood derby race with their personally made car or one they make from a kit given to racers.
There will be trophies for the fastest car, best looking car and the slowest one of all. The event is raising money through admission fees, sponsorships and by selling T-shirts. All proceeds will benefit The Society to Prevent Teen Suicide.
“Their work is so important especially nowadays. COVID[-19] has had such an impact on people. We want to support their mission of educating children and adults about preventing suicide among our children,” she said.
Suicide is the third leading cause of death among teens. Twining hopes parents, family and friends of children at-risk can spot the warning signs.
“If they show any signs of struggling, get therapy or counseling for them. Don’t let them choose. You make the decision as a parent. If you have any concerns, get someone for them to talk to if they won’t talk to you,” said Twining.
Twining said the people of Belchertown and other communities along with police, businesses and the Lion’s Club have rallied to support Aaron’s Race with donations and demonstrations during the event.
“I’m very pleased the community is behind us. A lot of people have reached out to help. People everywhere have been very generous. It just fills my heart,” said Twining.
Twining teaches third and fourth grade students with social and emotional needs in the Springfield School system. She loves helping children, dubbing it “her calling” in life. The race is one way to help.
She’s also inviting children along with their parents, relatives and friends to contact her if they’re afraid a child needs emotional help. She can be reached by calling or texting her at 519-5610 or by email at hea21@charter.net.
“I don’t want this to happen to anybody else. I don’t want another family to go through what we went through. I’m putting myself out there and I’m totally ok with that,” she said.
Aaron’s presence will be felt at the race, as people remember the boy who loved his family, dogs and friends.
“He was funny. He just had that dry humor. He was very sweet and caring, always ready to help his brother. But he was the kind of child who would avoid doing work if he could get away with it,” said Twining.
Aaron’s Race and Family Fun Day is taking place on June 18 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Belchertown High School Gym. Anyone interested in joining the race can get more information or register by contacting Twining directly or searching for Aaron’s Race 01007 on Facebook.