Make Sure Children Wear Bicycle Helmets
* It’s wonderful that Chelsey Thomas will have a “Reason to Smile” (Aug. 23) after surgeons finish a complicated surgery to correct the Moebius syndrome, a rare neurological condition that affects her facial nerves. What is disheartening is The Times’ photo, which shows her about to ride her bicycle without a helmet while her 14-year-old brother uses in-line skates with no helmet or any protective pads! If the Thomases are willing to commit their HMO to a $70,000 surgery, why aren’t they also willing to spend the minimal amount required for helmets and protective pads? It is now California law that children must wear helmets when riding bicycles. I am hoping that the Thomas children actually do own and use helmets but simply chose not to wear them while posing for Times photos.
Chelsey’s condition thankfully is rare. Injuries caused by lack of proper protective gear, however, are tragically common. The surgeons who perform the delicate work on Chelsey’s face probably also deal with far too many children injured because their parents didn’t require them to wear a bicycle helmet. I know those doctors will insist Chelsey wear proper protective gear. All parents should do the same. Buy a helmet and make sure your child wears it!
FRANK COLLISON
La Crescenta