It’s amazing, how much can happen in three years.
In the last three years, I have worked at two jobs, picked up a new sport, and moved house and hometowns.
All of this I have done without the best friend I’ve ever had.
Molly Kneebone, pictured, was so full of love and life when her days were cut short on the night of December 13, 2013. She had spent the evening doing what she loved – singing with her beautiful family at the Tailem Bend Christmas Carols – before making the trip back to her new home in the Barossa Valley.
But she did not make it home. At about 9.30pm, Molly’s car ran off the road and hit a tree.
Crash investigators were unable to find what went wrong with Molly’s accident; she was not speeding or on a mobile phone, and there was no trace of alcohol or drugs.
I still remember vividly when I learned of her passing, but everything after those words were spoken is a blur. The moment you hear the news that you will never see your friend or family member, or even a work colleague or old school mate, again is one of the most gut-wrenching moments anyone could experience.
And in the days, months, and years that follow, it’s unrelenting heartache and uncontrollable tears. It’s times of loneliness and times of wishing, more than anything, that your loved one could be by your side.
If you pick up the November 24 edition of our sister paper The Murray Valley Standard, you can read about how Molly’s immediate family – mother Karen, father Noel, and younger sister Katelin – have coped with the loss of their treasured daughter and friend.
In fact, find nearly any copy of any of Fairfax SA’s papers from the past five weeks and you can hear about the impact car crashes have had on those who have experienced it, as part of our drive. arrive. campaign.
There is so much heartache which can be prevented by following simple road rules: don’t speed, don’t drive on alcohol or drugs, don’t use your phone, rest every two hours when driving.
Far too many lives are lost on our roads every year, leaving families incomplete, friends heartbroken, and communities shattered.
Please, I beg of you: take extra care while driving, especially over this holiday period.
Do it for your loved ones. All your family and friends want for Christmas is you.
Dani Brown, journalist
Dani Brown
Previously seen at The Murray Valley Standard. Passionate photographer and chocolate Bavarian eater. Lover of live music, writing, and sport. Significantly older than I look.
Previously seen at The Murray Valley Standard. Passionate photographer and chocolate Bavarian eater. Lover of live music, writing, and sport. Significantly older than I look.
