She put everything she had into her job. Her passion: to save lives on Minnesota roads. Unfortunately the Department of Public Safety has to say goodbye to Kathy Swanson.
Swanson is stepping down as Minnesota Director of Traffic Safety. One year ago, she was diagnosed with ALS or Lou Gehrig?s disease.
In 1978, when Swanson started with the department, she was an analyst. That year, there were 980 traffic fatalities in the state; last year, there were 494. A lot of that has to do with one woman?s constant efforts to get drivers to slow down, buckle up, and think twice before drinking and driving.
?It is a rewarding job, not necessarily a flashy one, but it?s very rewarding. I worked with some of the best people on earth,? Swanson said. She uses an electronic chair to get around, her voice is amplified by a microphone.
Kathy Swanson?s efforts have been recognized statewide and nationally. She hopes the next Director has the same passion for saving lives.
?If I had my druthers I would keep laboring in this vineyard for another 15 years, so I?m sad,? Swanson explained as she said goodbye.
(Copyright 2007 by KARE. All Rights Reserved.)
