Sam T and Molly T

   A few weeks ago I attended an event / commemoration for a young boy who had been tragically killed here in Tortola, while on vacation, in an automobile accident about a year and a half ago. At the time of the accident, passers by came to the aid of the injured family of four. Among those that helped were members of Rotary Club of Tortola and the KATS program. A devastating blow to the family to lose their son, who was 11 years old and loved the sea and sailing. Apon returning back to the states, the family sent out thank you notes to all that helped during a very stressful time, not to mention the police, EMT's and doctors. Sam's sister, Molly, came up with a fund raising program after the family returned home to bury Sam, to raise money for the KAT'S program, to somehow show them the family's gratitude. Molly raised over $ 10, 000 so that the KATS program could buy two brand new Laser sailboats which they train on. The ceremony was both a celebration of Sam's short life, but also a heart felt thank you from the KATS sailing program.

Two boats were purchased with the funds, fully race rigged,with shore dollies. The KATS program held the event to Cristen the boats and unveiled the names painted on the hulls, "Sam T" and "Molly T". Truly a kind gesture on the part of the family who was here to vacation in the BVI's, who faced a tragedy in there lives, but still returned to the BVI's to thank the people of the BVI's once again.

This type of generosity is what keeps the program alive and thriving, teaching the kids a love of the sea as Sam had. Over the past 15 years, there have been many personal donations but this one from Sam's family will never be forgotten.