My 6 year old son Thomas , who has severe autism, left our home and wandered to Stapleton Water Front by our home.  Tragically my son drowned at this ungated water front.  I had to watch something no mother should have to see as they pulled my son from the water but he did not make it.  I have been stricken with the worst grief , the loss of a beloved child and I cannot stand by and allow this to happen to any other parent!

This area needs to be gated.  No swimming is permitted and no fishing.  There should not be access to this part if individuals are in danger, including children, if they enter.  I know in my heart my son would still be with us if it was gated.  No mother , no parent, no brother, no sister etc should ever have to lose someone because of something no easily rectified.  This gate will guarantee no other family will have to suffer as my family and I have.

Time is precious.  Every minute, day, hour  without a gate on this part of the water front is another day risking the life of another child.  We need to keep our community , especially our children  safe from this potential danger.  I am hoping that we can band together and get this done so that my son did not die in vein, but to possibly save another life.  The time is now!  This is for my son Thomas Sanchez who deserved to be safe and protected.