Son Seeks Memories of Father Impaled in M53 Crash to Keep His Legacy Alive
Michael Hayes is reaching out for stories about his father, Mark, who survived a horrific accident on the M53 in 1989
Ellesmere Port, Mark Hayes, M53 Crash, Accident, Memory, Family
Ellesmere Port: A son is on a mission to keep his father’s memory alive after a tragic accident. Michael Hayes is looking for anyone who knew his dad, Mark, who was seriously injured in a crash on the M53 back in 1989.
Mark was riding in a flatbed truck when disaster struck. An HGV lost control and crashed into fencing, sending wooden planks flying into the truck. It was a horrific scene, and Mark was left impaled.
Emergency services arrived quickly, but it took a while to free him from the wreckage. Mark underwent a grueling seven-hour surgery to treat his injuries, which were extensive.
The driver of the HGV was charged with reckless driving and was sentenced to prison. Despite everything, Mark made an incredible recovery and even shared his story on BBC’s 999.
He vividly remembered waking up in the cab, realizing he had crashed, and seeing the stakes sticking out of his stomach. It was a moment of sheer panic and pain.
At that time, his daughter Ashleigh was just a baby, and his wife, Sue, was waiting for him at home. Mark recalled feeling an out-of-body experience, thinking about his family and how they would cope.
Against all odds, Mark went on to have another child, Michael, and he formed a special bond with the paramedic who saved him, asking him to be Michael’s godfather.
Sadly, Mark passed away from cancer in 2004, but Michael cherishes the memories they made together. Now, he’s reaching out on social media to gather stories about his dad from those who knew him.
His post on a local Facebook group received an overwhelming response, with people sharing their memories and stories. Michael was amazed at how many people remembered his dad.
He’s passionate about family history and wants to learn more about his father’s life before the accident. He remembers the packed church at Mark’s funeral and wishes to reconnect with those who knew him.
Michael encourages anyone with stories or memories to reach out on the Facebook group Pride in the Port. He wants to ensure his dad is never forgotten.