Four years after her tragic death, Rickilee Mercer was honored on Sunday, February 28th, with a short activity at Secret Beach north of San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye, the place she was last seen alive. Her unfortunate death, which was ruled as an accident after falling off a jet ski, gave birth to the Rickilee Response and Rescue or Triple R, a team that responds to road and water accidents/emergencies on the island.
Rickilee’s remembrance took place at 2PM on the north end of the beach. Triple R founders Traci and Jim Curtin and members of the rescue team, and a host of friends and supporters paid tribute to Mercer and celebrated four years of the team’s hard work. They also touched on Triple R’s progress throughout these years. The dedicated team lead by Philip ‘Billy’ Leslie, and his colleague National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO) District Emergency Coordinator for Belize Rural South, Vanessa Parham, was commended. The short event also highlighted the team’s latest response to water emergencies involving an American National reported missing at sea the day before. He was rescued after missing all day, safe and sound before the sunset near the Secret Beach area.
The activity ended with a toast and the placing of flowers on the water, honouring Mercer’s life. Island resident Gary Lee paid his respects with a special item he made from sea heart beans. Those who were familiar with Mercer shared emotional testimonials about her. They said Rickilee will always be remembered in Ambergris Caye. Triple R was also officially presented with two jet skis to better equip them when responding to water emergencies.
Organizers also acknowledged the presence and support of other team members who have tirelessly supported Triple R. These included Michael S Cain, Steve Bowen, Darin Boyd, Kennard Aimee Hamilton, Kennard Ann Thompson, Jodie and Scott Harnish, Gary Lee, Pamela Plater, ChiChi Rodriguez, Mimi Rodriguez, Tyonia Schulman, Andrew Schulman and everyone who have contributed in one way or another.
Triple R is always looking for volunteers, donations, and help in growing within the community. To keep up with the good work Triple R is doing on Ambergris Caye, you can follow them on Facebook and Instagram, or visit their website at www.rrr.life. For any emergencies, Triple R can be reached any time by calling 627-1117.
