Figure Skating Mom Launches Skates of Hope to Honor Victims of DC Plane Crash

Christine Cheesman, a dedicated homeschool mom and budding figure skater, has recently taken on a significant new role as the founder of Skates of Hope. This initiative aims to honor the victims of American Airlines Flight 5342, which tragically collided with a U.S. Army helicopter in Washington, D.C., on January 29, resulting in the loss of all 67 individuals onboard.

While at an ice skating rink, Cheesman learned about the devastating accident that claimed the lives of so many. The crash site, near the Potomac River, became a somber reminder of the fragility of life when two aircraft collided in the evening darkness.

Impact on the Figure Skating Community

Of the victims from Flight 5342, 28 were involved in the figure skating community, as reported by the Olympics website. This group included eleven young athletes, four coaches, and thirteen family members. The emotional toll on the skating community has been profound.

Cheesman reflected on the tragedy, saying, “As a mom, it took my breath away. Even now, thinking about it, it’s really difficult to try to understand what the parents are feeling and the families that have lost everything.” Her sentiment resonates deeply among those who have followed the stories of the talented individuals lost in the incident.

A Personal Connection to Figure Skating

She has a deep connection to figure skating through her 12-year-old daughter, who fell in love with the sport after a school field trip. Cheesman herself enjoys skating, finding solace and freedom on the ice. “Being on the ice, it’s beautiful. Each day I get on the ice after this tragedy, it just has like a renewed sense of purpose for me and for my daughter, as well,” she explained.

The emotional journey has sparked conversations between mother and daughter about the figures in the skating world. Cheesman acknowledges the challenge for her daughter to grasp the enormity of the loss faced by the families of the crash victims. These were not just names in the news; they were athletes she admired and followed online.

Skates of Hope’s Mission

In response to the tragedy, Cheesman established Skates of Hope. The initiative focuses on providing new skates to those in the figure skating community who are in need. Cheesman utilizes Instagram as a platform to collect donations and distribute skates, ensuring athletes facing adversity receive support.

The positive feedback from the skaters who receive the skates has been heartening. Cheesman reports that, “The skaters who are receiving the skates are just so grateful,” emphasizing the joy that a simple gesture of kindness can bring during difficult times. Coaches also reach out to her to empower their athletes by providing them with much-needed equipment.

A Bigger Vision for Skates of Hope

Cheesman’s vision for Skates of Hope extends beyond the immediate goal of providing skates. She aims to establish it as a nonprofit organization. Any monetary donations collected will be directed toward supporting the families who lost loved ones in the D.C. plane crash, aiding them in their time of need.

How to Get Involved

For those wishing to support or contribute to the initiative, Cheesman encourages them to connect via Instagram. She welcomes donations of skates as well as outreach from individuals looking to benefit from the program.

Context of the Tragedy

The D.C. plane crash marked a significant tragedy in aviation history, being the deadliest in the U.S. since the events of November 12, 2001. That previous incident involved a jet crashing into a New York City neighborhood shortly after takeoff, resulting in the loss of all 260 people aboard and five additional victims on the ground.

As the figure skating community continues to grieve the loss of its members, initiatives like Skates of Hope shine a beacon of hope. They not only uplift those facing hardships but also serve as a reminder of the indomitable spirit of community and support that characterizes the sport.

With Cheesman at the helm of this important project, she embodies the compassion and perseverance found within the world of figure skating. As she skates in memory of those lost, she simultaneously helps others find their footing again through her dedicated efforts.

This article includes contributions from the Associated Press.