The Suncoast is coming out to help the family struck by a suspected drunk driver.  Earlier this week we told about the death of 7-year-old Sarah-Dian Heineman of North Port.  Her father and sister are also in bad shape.  Now friends, family, and complete strangers are looking to help.

There is no amount of money that can bring back Sarah.  She was a wide-eyed second grader full of life.  That was all robbed from her and her family when a suspected drunk driver literally ran over the car she was in.

"I can't imagine the pain that they are going through."  Family friend Jerry Collins says Sarah-Dian's 9-year-old sister Madison is also trying to recover.  Her father Rick in critical condition, her mother Carriann by their side.  "She is a school teacher.  She cares so much about children.  Not only her own, but she helps my family and a lot of other families."

The 24-year-old driver charged, Ronald Smith, is uninsured.  With neither parent working, the bills are stacking up.  Now the community is stepping up.  North Port High School students are collecting money.  Ribbons are being sold, a car wash is planned, a donation account has been set up at any Bank of America.  Collins is organizing a silent auction and yard sale.  "Going through this struggle right now the last thing this family needs to think about is how the bills are going to get paid.  I can't take the pain away for their grieving but I can make to where she doesn't have to worry about how she's going to pay the bills."

Calling the event a "Celebration of life" for Sarah.  The fundraiser needs help."We are asking the community to donate items to be in a silent auction or garage sale. Just come out and be apart of the celebration of Sarah's life."

The silent auction and yard sale will take place March 21st at the Murdock Baptist Church. If you have items or want more information you can email Jerry Collins at jcollins@iaff2546.com.

If you would like to donate money you can do so at any Bank of America branch under the Heineman family fund.


This Saturday at one there will be a memorial service for Sarah at the Venice Bible Church.