By Scout Nelson
The journey to college can be transformative, and for Jaiden Boomsma of South Dakota State University (SDSU), it's closely linked with significant personal loss and a commitment to farm safety. The tragic loss of her brother Jaxon in a farm accident motivated the Boomsma family to establish a memorial focused on preventing such incidents.
Jaiden, an economics major and a prominent athlete in track and field, finds competition a therapeutic outlet and a means to honor Jaxon. "It gives me a focus," she states, appreciating the dual benefit of sport in her life.
Her marketing class project led to a viral TikTok video promoting National Farm Safety and Health Week, drawing vast attention to the cause with over 31,000 likes. The family’s book, "Staying safe on the farm with Jaxon," further extends their safety message, with increasing demand following the video’s success.
Looking beyond graduation, Jaiden aims to pursue financial advising while continuing her crucial farm safety outreach. Jaxon's memory fuels her dedication to her sport and advocacy, as she vows to face adversity with a positive spirit.
For more on Jaiden’s journey and advocacy efforts, visit the Storytelling page of the National Children’s Center.
Categories: South Dakota, Rural Lifestyle, Farm Safety