On April 15, 2008, 24 year old Heather Dawn Bouchard was killed while driving to work in southern Maine. A dedicated social worker, she had placed a call to a client and dropped her cell phone. When she attempted to retrieve it, she lost control of her car and veered across the highway, slamming into an oncoming vehicle. Heather was ejected and died later at Maine Medical Center.
Heather had a glowing smile and infectious humor who brought light to all who knew her and was loved by all.
Heather graduated from Madawaska High School in 2001 where she was salutatorian of her class and earned scholastic awards in science, history and English. She was also an active participant in several sports and extra-scholastic activities. After graduation, she attended the University of New England where she excelled academically, being named to Who’s Who Among Students in American Universities and Colleges. She earned degrees in both medical biology and psychology. At the time of the crash, Heather was pursuing a graduate degree to specialize in the field of autism. Heather Dawn’s dream was to open a center specializing in services for children with autism and learning disorders.
Since her death, Heather’s family established The Heather and Liam Connection, whose mission is to bring education and awareness for persons with autism and other entangled learners.
Heather’s mother, Judy Nelson Bouchard, also travels the state of Maine giving a power point presentation sharing Heather’s story and the tragic consequences of distracted driving.
