A devastating car accident in Cleveland last year has left a mother grappling with unimaginable grief. On April 1, 2024, Leih Whalen lost her two children, Iana McCrary and Daeshon Whalen, when their vehicle was struck from behind by a garbage truck on Interstate 90. Despite the driver activating hazard lights after running out of fuel, the tragedy unfolded, leaving an indelible mark on the family and community. This incident not only highlights the fragility of life but also underscores the importance of expressing love daily.
The day began as any other for Leih Whalen, who sent her 16-year-old daughter Iana and 9-year-old son Daeshon off in a car heading westbound on Interstate 90. However, fate took an unexpected turn when the vehicle stalled due to lack of gas. Although the driver activated the hazard lights, the car was hit forcefully by a Kimble garbage truck, resulting in the tragic deaths of Iana and Daeshon. The impact left another passenger paralyzed and a teenage girl with minor injuries.
For nearly a year, Leih Whalen has carried the weight of this loss. She recalls the moment she first heard the news, questioning its severity repeatedly. Her pain is palpable as she describes feeling robbed of irreplaceable moments with her children. Time seems to have stopped for her since that fateful day; her calendar remains unchanged, marking April 1, 2024, as both "DAY MY KIDS PASSED" and "WORST DAY."
As the anniversary approaches, Whalen finds solace in preserving memories through photographs, belongings, and mementos of her children. Even flowers from the funeral bring her comfort, though she cannot bear to look at images of the damaged car. To cope, she dedicates her time to traveling and creating new experiences with her surviving 14-year-old son, alongside Iana’s dog and Daeshon’s cat. Despite her immense suffering, she emphasizes the importance of telling loved ones you care every day.
In the wake of such a profound loss, Leih Whalen continues to navigate her grief while honoring her children's memory. Through shared experiences and cherished moments, she strives to keep their spirits alive. As no criminal charges have been filed regarding the crash, the family must find closure in ways beyond legal resolution, reminding us all of life's unpredictability and the lasting impact of love.