SADD Supports MADD Vigil

Jesuit High School's SADD club - Students Against Destructive Decisions - joined many others, including local law enforcement, at an annual candlelight vigil in memory of those killed locally in DUI-related crashes.

Thirty two members of SADD, along with moderators Lauren Maguire and Amy Martin, attended the MADD Candlelight Vigil at First Baptist Church in Temple Terrace on Dec. 7.

For several years SADD has supported the vigil, which is sponsored by Mothers Against Drunk Driving. The event provided data about the dangers of driving while impaired. In the last six years in Florida, more than 79,000 DUI-related crashes have occurred, injuring tens of thousands and killing 2,200 people.

At the Dec. 7 event, West Central Florida Victims and Survivors were joined by SADD club members from Jesuit and Hillsborough High School to honor the memories of 70 victims by lighting a candle in recognition of each. Dozens of law enforcement officers also were present, lighting up their motorcycles and police cars to create a moving backdrop for the Walk of Memories.

Linda Unfried, the founder of the West Central Florida MADD Chapter, as well as several others impacted by DUI-related crashes, shared stories of their losses to help victims with their grief and offer comfort to those attending this ceremony.

View a photo slideshow of the event below.