Sharing Safety with MSU Bulldogs!

What a fun day at the MSU (Mississippi State University) Lady Bulldogs game.  Not only was it a fun day because it was a MSU basketball game, but extra fun with 4-H'ers from across the state for 4-H Day with Lady Bulldogs.  It is still a little different for me getting the response I get from others as Mrs. Mississippi International as opposed to 4-H Agent.  I do have to say that I am so blessed that the kids I see as 4-H'ers and in the school have always been so sweet, and often have hugs and smiles when they see their 4-H Agent.  However, I am able to see and meet people I would not have met as 4-H Agent, and that is a blessing as well!

From pictures with babies to pictures with adults, I was able to meet a variety of wonderful people yesterday as I shared ATV Safety and prevention of head/brain injuries.  What is even more amazing is the stories many shared with me.  One lady told how important helmets are to her family no matter what they do- whether riding bikes or riding her dependable horse.  She was wearing her helmet when her long-time dependable horse stumbled and threw her off.  She landed on her head with her helmet crushing, and still suffered a concussion.  Without her helmet, she believes she would not be here, according to what her doctor told her.

As I visited with one father, he said that his son, now a young adult, still suffered with a brain injury from years ago.  He was hit by an automobile on while on an ATV.  He shared how difficult it is to find assisted living or assistance for those with brain injuries.  As I hear these stories, I am reminded of  how much we take for granted each day.

I enjoyed seeing the moms that with their children as they showed them that wearing helmets and being safe IS important!  I would ask them a few questions about wearing helmets, and if they rode on the streets.  The mom's face would light up, as I was reinforcing the same thing she had said to her child already...."See, this is how important it is.  She decided to do spend her time promoting this."  Oh, I love it when we mothers join forces!   And for those guys without their mom nearby and wanting an autograph, I made sure they got the safety info and lecture as well (with a smile and friendly warning that I did not want them riding without their helmets). 

It was truly a great day of seeing some familiar faces and friends, and making new connections with families across the state.  A special thank you to the MSU Event Staff who made my day go smoothly and to 4-H State President and her mom for helping me carry my display back to my car.  It was a pleasure meeting each of you!