D. Barbara McWhite grew up in York County, S.C., and lives in Orange Park, Fla., with her husband and cat. Her column is published here each Tuesday. Opinions expressed are solely her own.

The tragic death of Indy 500 champion Dan Wheldon is, for me, a horrifying example of what can happen when one’s passion is wrapped in danger.

Wheldon, 33, died Sunday from injuries he suffered in a fiery, multi-car crash during the opening laps of a race in Las Vegas.

His father was a go-kart racer, and his mother a timer at a track where he grew up. Dan was introduced to go-karts at age 4. From then on, he seemed addicted to the sport of speed.

He would go on to win the Indy 500 twice and achieve 16 victories in the circuit overall.

The clips of the terrifying crash that ended his life are hard to watch.

Even harder to see was his family picture -- a smiling Wheldon with his wife and two young sons. It is amazing that a man with so much to live for would put himself at risk in this way. To risk your life for any sport is questionable. To risk your life for a sport when you have young children seems inexcusable.

To tear around a crowded track at speeds of over 200 mph was asking for trouble, and it is reported that Wheldon expressed some concern before the race began. The race announcer talked about the dangers seconds before the accident happened. Yet for the $5 million dollar purse, Wheldon decided to race.

Life is filled with choices. And whether it's mountain climbing, parasailing, gang involvement, drug abuse or any other dangerous undertaking, I believe the choices one makes for himself alone should differ from the ones he makes when he has children.

The vacancy left by Weldon's death in the hearts and lives of his sons will likely never be filled, even if their mother finds love again.

I suspect that the ghost of their father will always hover over them, reminding them of what might have been. The fishing trips. The late-night talks. The ability to compare themselves -- their bodies, their hands, their voices, their personalities -- to those of their father.

Having their dad to straighten their ties on the day they marry.

Seeing the pride in the old man’s eyes on the day their first child is born.

Having their father’s advice on women and relationships.

Sharing and comparing their opinions on religion and politics.

The man who started life's race with his son's should still be here, waving the checkered flag as they pass each milestone in their lives and celebrating with them as they take the victory lap.

As a woman, I have to admit that I have little understanding of what makes anyone place themselves in danger for thrills or money. It’s enough that we must have fireman, policemen and soldiers -- all of whom put their lives on the line every day to protect us all.

So many people commenting on Wheldon's death have said he died doing what he loved. It seems to me that he had a duty to stay alive to protect and nurture those he loved best.

It’s sad to me that Wheldon made the choice to become a father before he rid himself of the racing bug.

His sons deserved a living dad.

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