Clay was out driving around hunting rabbits with a few buddies. While driving down the road about to turn a corner, that I am certain Clay was attempting to "drift" around, not knowing how close or even that there was a burrow ditch on his right, his back tire hit it, causing him to over corrected and ultimately flipping his truck 1.5 times. Clay had 2 passengers with him. He was ejected, as well as one of the passengers. Clay died on impact. The boy in the middle walked away with a concussion & a few scrapes. The boy who was ejected was flown to the hospital with life threatening injuries. *As of today, he is out of the hospital and in rehab, thanks be to you God. We are so happy to hear that he is going to be ok.
Police investigators who recreated the scene said Clay was not attempting to take the corner at a high rate of speed, he said Clay was going 35 possibly 40 mph, which still may have been a little too fast, but definitely not 65 mph as previously reported.
I feel the need to share that information because 1 that is the mama bear in me wanting to defend/protect my child and 2 because I want the truth known.
I do not feel that Clay intentionally set out to be wreckless. I do believe Clay set out to have a good time and unfortunately a terrible accident occurred.
Our hearts hurt every single second of the last 31 days that has gone by since this tragic accident. Mick, myself, Michayla, my parents & in law's, my sister & family, my brother & family, Mick's brother & family, anyone who knew Clay & those that didn't know him personally; all have been deeply impacted by the death of our sweet adventurous Clay. Things will never be the same, not ever!
A lot of people say that I am "so strong." The truth is, I am not. I am trying to be, but I fall apart at any given second of every single day.
I find words of strength to go along with pictures that I cherish. I find songs that speak to me to help say what I feel and I scream so loudly in hopes that this is not really happening to us.
I encourage anyone one reading this to go out and make memories as a family. Learn to live without the tv & the phones and go find what the outdoors has to offer your family. Take pictures, take lots & lots of pictures. One day, they may be the only thing you have to remind yourself & others of the story that resides within them..
We love you Clay!! Your dad, your sister & I cannot wait to see your beautiful shining face again one day.
For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten son, that whosoever believeth in him shall not perish, but have everlasting life. John 3:16
**Clay's favorite verse.. ❤
