There's No Place Like Home...

While I was home, I learned about a tragic accident that greatly impacted someone I went to high school with-Bob Griffin and his family.

Tragedy struck Griffin and his family suddenly and unexpectedly in January as they headed to their home in Mill Valley, Calif. after a weekend vacation. It was on this ride home they were struck head-on by a vehicle piloted by a drunk driver, instantly killing Bob’s wife and the mother of his two children, Linda Jones Griffin. Bob was critically injured in the accident as well, spending a month in a San Jose Trauma Center Intensive Care Unit. He received treatment for numerous broken bones and internal injuries. The Griffin’s two children, Basia, who is 5, and Bo, who is 2, were also injured in the collision. (The Palladian-Times, Oswego NY, June 19, 2008)

Bob and his 2 daughters were back in Oswego recovering with family and the entire city was rallying around him in support. While I was home, there were several events scheduled in support of Bob and his family. Old City Hall held a benefit concert aptly titled “Get Back for Bob" and The American Foundry hosted a chicken barbecue fundraiser the last weekend I was there.

My sister-in-law, Amy, and I had the grandparents babysit so we could go to the benefit concert. Bob was there and singing with some of his old band mates. It was all very moving! It was wonderful to see the community rallying around one of it's own. And it was fun to get out without the kids and catch up with a few old friends from high school.

(Brandi, Amy and I)

(Bob and some of his old bandmates)

( Bob singing "Every Rose Has It's Thorn")

We will continue to keep Bob and his family in our hearts. Here are some links if you are interested in reading more or donating to Bob and his daughters:
Article in the Pall Times regarding the fundraising weekend
Article from their local paper in CA after the accident
Website set up by Bob's church for donations
youtube video for Bob's wife Linda