Every 15 Minutes - April 2000

*Every 15 Minutes - a Drunk Driving Education program that showcases a mock accident - in 2000 I acted as the driver for Richard Montgomery High School's program*

 

Dear Maggie,

 

As you are reading this, I am sitting in my jail cell where I will be for the next few years of my life.  Because of one split second decision, we will not be able to have our talks about guys, family, friends, etc.  I won't be able to take you to the movies or give you advice on all the things I've been through.  Hopefully you will keep in touch and tell me about all the bad things you're NOT doing.

 

Because you've probably heard many different stories, I want to tell you exactly why I am in jail.  The other night I made the stupid decision to drink at a party and then drive.  My friend was also in the car with me and as we were fighting over the radio station, I ran head-on into another car containing two high school students.  The two boys in the other car as well as my friend in my car were killed, and I am still alive to suffer with the guilt.  Although my friend told me not to drive, I put her life as well as mine into my own teenage hands.  I still can't believe I did.  As you know, it was my first time drunk, and I am still amazed that I got zero chances to change my actions.  How could I kill three people on my first night drunk?  As the cops and ambulance showed up, I was still unaware of what was going on.  The officer asked me many questions, most of which I don't remember, and I stood there stunned.  I failed every test.  You don't understand how horrible it is to not be able to walk nine steps without falling down every three.  That alone has convinced me not to drink again.  After they handcuffed me and took me to the policy station, I sat in a holding cell for 45 minutes.  I stared at the wall crying the entire time- getting flashbacks of the students I single-handedly killed.  Yes, your sister Sara, who was once your role model, was the cause of three deaths.  After they asked me another long list of basic information, I took a breathalizer test, and now I am sitting in jail waiting for my court date.  As the officer told me, I am facing many serious charges and will most likely stay in jail for a very long time.

 

So, I am sitting here crying and crying because I know I have lost your trust and faith.  Now that I look back on how many good and bad things came out of this experience, I am surprised at why I even drank at all.  Five hours of pleasure and in return I get five years of pain and suffering.  Not to mention the pain I will have the rest of my life for hurting four different families, including you, one of the most important people to me.  I have disappointed my family, friends, and anyone who knows me.  Once again, I am sorry.

 

Love, Sara