The family of a Brandon woman who was killed in a collision at the intersection of Highway 110 and Richmond Avenue East has launched a GoFundMe campaign to help her son continue his post-secondary education.
Xiaoyun Zhang, 49, died on May 27 when a semi-truck collided with her SUV at the intersection east of Brandon. Brandon police later charged the driver of the semi with dangerous driving causing death.
According to the fundraiser, Zhang’s son, Jiahao Zhang, is pursuing a career in medicine and says his mother spent years working to support his education and future ambitions. He hopes to continue his studies while honouring his mother’s wish that he use his education to help others.
The fundraiser describes the profound impact Xiaoyun’s death has had on the family. As recent immigrants to Canada, the family says they are now facing both emotional and financial challenges following the loss of a devoted wife and mother.
Meanwhile, provincial officials have moved ahead with several safety improvements at the intersection where the fatal collision occurred. The intersection has been converted to an all-way stop while newly installed traffic signals await full activation later this summer. Other measures include reduced approach speeds to 70 kilometres per hour, additional rumble strips, enhanced signage, the closure of parallel turning lanes and flashing red traffic signals in all directions until the system is fully operational.
The province says the changes are intended to improve driver awareness and safety while work continues on the permanent signalized intersection.
Those wishing to support the family can do so through the GoFundMe campaign at:
https://www.gofundme.com/f/the-child-who-lost-his-mother-wants-to-continue-his-studies
