Message from
MARS
I EXISTED...
About Message From Mars
M.A.R.S., which stands for Motorcycle Moms Advocating for Road Safety, was founded by me, Deborah Henry-Bennett, Omari "Mars" Munroe's Mom. After, enduring the unimaginable loss of my son in a tragic motorcycle accident on a Georgia highway. In my journey through grief, I discovered that I am not alone—many other mothers share the profound heartache of losing their sons and/or daughters to fatal motorcycle incidents. Collective experiences unite us in ways that words often fail to capture. In the face of such heartbreak, I am committed to transforming my pain into purpose. Through raising awareness about motorcycle safety and honoring the cherished memories of our lost children, it is my intention to empower communities to come together in prevention. To ensure that no family has to experience the devastating grief of losing a loved one on the open road. Message from MARS is not just an organization; it is a movement born from love, resilience, and a shared hope that our efforts will bring about lasting change in road safety for everyone.
Mars Mission
Message From MARS exists to honor the lives of loved ones lost through a mission of compassion and advocacy. We are dedicated to supporting grieving mothers and spearheading educational efforts to promote motorcycle safety, creating a legacy of protection and remembrance.
The Vision of MARS
To create a heartfelt movement that transforms loss into advocacy, where mothers come together to safeguard motorcyclists' lives, ensuring that every ride honors those who are no longer with us.
Meet Mars
Omari Sincere Munroe, affectionately known as Mars, was born on July 6, 1998, in Bridgeport, Connecticut. From a young age, Mars demonstrated a remarkable ability to master everything he set his mind to, showcasing an unparalleled dedication to his interests. With an extraordinary intellect and an unyielding drive, he embraced his creative side, leaving a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.
Mars Mom
Deborah Henry-Bennett
MFM CEO & Founder
“Death leaves a heartache no one can heal; love leaves a memory no one can steal.” – Richard Puz
“Where do I begin?” “What can I say that would accurately articulate the profound depth of my sorrow?” It feels like I'm trapped in a never-ending nightmare, desperately longing for the moment when I will wake up and find everything as it should be.
Embracing Grief, Honoring Love
At Message from MARS, we understand that losing a child is a pain beyond description, a heart-wrenching reality that no mother should ever have to face. When a motorcycle accident takes away a beloved son or daughter, it feels as if the very foundation of life has crumbled. The dreams, laughter, and moments that once filled our days are replaced by an overwhelming silence, a void that can never truly be filled. Grief becomes a constant companion, manifesting in waves of sorrow that ebb and flow, catching us off guard when we least expect it. Each heartbeat echoes the loss, reminding us of the vibrant life that was and the love that remains forever untarnished.
Motorcycle fatalities are a tragic and growing concern on our roads. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), motorcyclists are significantly more vulnerable than other motorists, with an increased risk of serious injury or death in the event of an accident.
In fact, in 2021, there were over 5,500 motorcycle fatalities in the United States, highlighting the urgent need for enhanced safety measures and greater awareness among drivers and riders alike. These statistics reflect not just numbers but shattered families, dreams cut short, and lives forever altered. In those dark moments, we often find ourselves questioning everything—how to move forward, how to navigate a world that feels unbearably cruel, and how to honor the memory of our child while carrying the weight of such profound heartache. At our core, we are driven by an unyielding determination to turn our grief into advocacy. Through our shared experiences and the healing power of community, we strive to bring awareness to motorcycle safety and the importance of protective gear, education, and responsible riding practices. We aim to ensure that the beauty of our children’s lives does not fade into the shadows of forgotten tragedy. Together, we carry their spirits with us, channeling our love into a mission that can help prevent other families from enduring this unimaginable loss. By advocating for safer roads and responsible riding, we hope to change the narrative surrounding motorcycle travel, transforming our grief into a beacon of hope for others.
ROAD STARS INITIATIVES
1
Grief Counseling
Emotional Support
Our grief counseling programs offer mothers a safe space to express their emotions, receive support, and navigate the challenging journey of healing after losing a child in a motorcycle accident. We provide professional referrals for guidance and comforting resources to help them cope with their loss and find solace.
2
Safety Training
Preventing Tragedies
Empowering the community with motorcycle safety training in an effort to reduce accidents and protecting lives.
We will refer riders to comprehensive courses and workshops to educate on safe riding practices, traffic awareness, and emergency response, ensuring mothers are equipped with the knowledge to stay safe on the roads.
3
Support Groups
Building Connections
Our support groups provide a nurturing environment for mothers to share experiences, connect with others facing similar challenges, and find comfort in a community that understands their pain. Through mutual understanding and shared stories, these groups offer companionship and a sense of belonging during difficult times.
Dedication Page - In Loving Memory of Our Beloved Bikers
This page is dedicated to the cherished memories of all the bikers who have tragically lost their lives on the road. Each name represents a spirit that embraced freedom, adventure, and a passion for the open road. They were more than just riders; they were sons, daughters, brothers, sisters, and friends—each leaving a profound impact on the lives of those who loved them.
Omari Mars Munroe
July 6, 1998 - July 18, 2023
25 years old
Atlanta, Georgia
Stats, Facts & Donating Acts
Did you know?
Statistics
Facts
Motorcycle Accident Stats in Georgia in 2023
Motorcycle Accident Facts in Georgia:
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Total Crashes: 4,162
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Fatal Crashes: 203
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Total Injuries: 3,398
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Total Fatalities: 210
*This indicates that, out of the total crashes, 203 resulted in fatalities, and there were a total of 210 fatalities resulting from these crashes. The number of injuries is 3,398, highlighting the significant impact of these crashes on public safety.
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Metro Atlanta: Accounts for the highest percentage of motorcycle crashes in the state, representing 42% of all incidents.
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Leading Counties: The counties with the highest rates of fatal motorcycle accidents are Fulton, DeKalb, and Gwinnett.
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Fatality Trends: Since 2017, there has been an upward trend in motorcycle accident fatality rates.
*Recent Improvements: Between 2022 and 2023, there was a slight improvement, with a 3.2% decrease in motorcycle-related fatalities.
Donating Acts
Donating to causes that support bereaved parents, particularly those who have lost children in tragic incidents like motorcycle accidents, is vital for fostering healing and community support. Contributions can fund essential initiatives such as:
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Counseling Services: Providing therapy designed for grieving parents.
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Support Groups: Establishing groups for shared experiences and emotional solace.
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Memorial Programs: Creating tributes like scholarships and remembrance events to honor lost children.
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Educational Resources: Offering workshops and literature to help families cope with grief.
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Advocacy and Awareness: Promoting motorcycle safety and awareness to prevent future tragedies.
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Financial Assistance: Supporting families with unexpected expenses related to their loss.
*Every donation, regardless of size, contributes to a compassionate community, providing support and recognition for the emotional needs of grieving families.
MARS Merch
Developing merchandise that aids mothers who have experienced the loss of a child in a motorcycle accident, while also promoting awareness of motorcycle safety, can serve as a poignant tribute to those we have lost. This initiative can help foster a sense of community among grieving parents, allowing them to honor their children's memories in a meaningful way.
Coming Soon!
Pause for the Cause...
