Project Lifesaver - The Story
The letter below was written to the head of the Project Lifesaver Board.
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Dear Chief Saunders,
In March of 2003, the Hanover County Sheriff's Office became a member of Project Lifesaver. Embarking on this new endeavor, no one knew what to expect. Our first client was a 6-year old boy with autism named Mathew Frank. In meeting Mathew and his parents, Joanna and Keith, I quickly realized that Project Lifesaver was about to become a large part of their lives, not to mention mine.
Mathew was immediately drawn to the deputy uniform. He may not have understood the exact purpose of the band he wore, but whenever he was asked why we were there, he would say, "...to keep me safe". Deputy Nick Pugh and I handled the monthly maintenance of the transmitter. Every 10 minute battery change would turn into an hour long visit with the family. Project Lifesaver not only allowed us to become part of their family, but it allowed the Franks to become a part of our family. With one look into Mathew's eyes, it was easy to see the love he had for us.
On January 19, 2006 at 5:30 a.m., I received a phone call from the Midnight Sergeant on duty. Mathew had passed away. I immediately telephoned Nick, and we went to the Frank's house. We spent the next hour and a half with the family and their pastor. The Frank's asked Nick and I to speak at Mathew's funeral and requested 4 deputies to be pall bearers. Nick and I were given the opportunity to share our story with 200+ people. I shared with the congregation that I probably never would have met a little boy named Mathew had it not been for Project Lifesaver. I may never have gained any understanding of what autism is, and what these families deal with on a daily basis.
While I know that it is crucial to find wanderers immediately, I believe that the largest part of this program can be seen in the relationships that are established with the families. Chief, I have shared this belief with you before, and I will continue to express it every time I speak about Project Lifesaver. I truly feel honored and blessed to be a part of Project Lifesaver, and I thank you for all you have done to assist me in the past three years.
Sincerely,
Sgt. Tim Sutton
Hanover County Sheriff's Office
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