Biggest turnout ever for Kansas walk benefiting survivors, victims’ families of impaired driving
GARDNER, Kan. (KCTV) - On Saturday, about 180 people hit the pavement for Walk like MADD for the first time in five years.
Mothers Against Drunk Driving Heartland representatives said this was the biggest turnout ever for “Walk like MADD” in their 45 years in Kansas.
For many, this walk has a purpose. Survivor Amy Ebers-Jumet said she walks because she is alive.
It was May 9, 2020. She was leaving her parents’ house after an early Mother’s Day celebration.
“I went to load the pickup truck, and as I was loading it, an impaired driver hit the parked vehicle, which threw me under the vehicle. And then the truck ran over my chest,” said Ebers-Jumet.
It was a 19-year-old man behind the wheel — he was impaired. He faced his consequences and served time.
“For me, I wanted this young man to come out and actually be a productive member of society, and I didn’t believe in my heart that he could do that if he spent 10 years in prison. So I did agree to a plea,” said Ebers-Jumet.
Now, five years later, she said she is still healing.
“The ripple effect is so wide it is not just me it is not just his young driver, it is his mom and his sister and his family, it is my mom and dad, my kids,” said Ebers-Jumet.
Whenever an impaired crash happens, MADD Heartland can help survivors and victims’ families.
“It is an overwhelming event, and when you are caught up in that, it is hard to navigate the system,” said MADD Heartland victims services specialist Tiffany Utech.
Walk like MADD raises funds to help families across the Heartland.
MADD Heartland plans to keep fighting to change laws and make sure everyone understands the consequences of driving under the influence.
“It is 100% preventable. We just need to not get behind the wheel when we use anything that is impairing to our brains,” said Ebers-Jumet.
They are always looking for volunteers and donations. You can learn how to help here.
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