La Voz

Last week, La Voz reported the untimely death of former De Anza student, Harout Mekhdjian. His passing marked the loss of a truly good person, one that was, and still is, loved and cherished by many.

By all accounts, he was a mature and intelligent individual who probably never dreamed that his love of motorcycles would eventually cost him his life. But it did.

The tragedy had a profound effect on many, especially those who knew him best.

Gladys Balajadia, who knew Mekhdjian since childhood, was a fellow motorcycle enthusiast. Upon hearing of his death, Balajadia was devastated, and the subsequent memorial had a profound effect on her.

"After being at his service, I really didn't feel like riding anymore." She has since sold her bike, and does not plan to ride any time soon.

Although her move may seem extreme, we could all use the wake-up call to reevaluate ourselves and our own driving habits.

Despite the seemingly rarity of the situation, Mekhdjian's fate could have happened to any of us. According to a report by the Center for Disease Control, the number one cause of death for the 18-22 year old age group is motor vehicle accidents. The statistic includes automobile as well as motorcycle fatalities.

Perhaps the only saving grace of this tragedy is that it can serve as an example to those who think it can't happen to them or that it was just a freak accident.

However, keep in mind that it was an accident that nobody, not even Mekhdjian, could have ever anticipated.

We could all slow down, drive more cautiously and use better judgment.

Hopefully, this can serve to show others the dire consequences of something seemingly innocent, and save all the heartache that comes with such a loss.

Perhaps then Mekhdjian would not have died in vain.

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