It Takes a Village

It was great to see so many people rally to help the Lawrence family! New to the Terraset community and expecting their fourth child, things did not go to plan when Charlotte hurt her foot.

On the second day of school, while walking her kids to Terraset, Charlotte was hit by a car! “Obviously not paying attention” Charlotte laughed. This happened at the intersection of Soapstone and Purple Beach Drive. A driver drove over Charlotte’s foot, she fell on the road, then was rushed off to the ER. All this occurred right in front of her children.

As it turned out, Ms. Trout, Terraset’s Principal, arrived on the scene. She immediately took care of the children while emergency workers were trying to reach Mr. Lawrence. The children were taken to Terraset and comforted by Mrs. Hunstad, Terraset’s Assistant Principal. Then four hours later, Ms. Trout went to pick up Charlotte from the ER. “First time we ever met! “ Charlotte declared.

Having just moved to Reston, the Lawrences had no family or friends close by to help. They needed some quickly, so Ms. Trout put them in touch with the PTA and the Terraset magic started to happen.  Firstly, the Goetz family stepped up offering to walk the younger children to school. They were quickly assisted by the Penn family (who actually lived a little closer to the Lawrences).

Charlotte Lawrence and her new baby, Bruce.

But more excitement was on the way. Baby Lawrence, Bruce, decided to come into the world just a little earlier than expected. According to doctors, the road accident caused “Baby Bruce to come two weeks earlier, when our three other kids were one week late.” Mrs. Lawrence told us. So, Charlotte found herself back in hospital. In marches a team of Terraset tigers -- teachers and parents -- with meals for the family. “Just incredibly nice people! We feel so lucky to be part of this community.” Mrs. Lawrence said.

Welcome to Reston Tim, Charlotte, Elliot, June, Vincent and Bruce. We are all looking forward to getting to know you better!

By the way, the driver who caused the accident was charged on site by the police and court day is October 17. “I wish we had more crossing guards near by the school....” Mrs. Lawrence commented.