The Life and Death of a Drunk Driver Victim.
One year after Matthew was killed by a drunk driver, an organization called Atlantic Prevention Resources asked me to share the story of our loss at a mandatory, state-run class for convicted drunk drivers. I had been praying that God would bring something good out of Matt’s death, so I jumped at the chance.
Since the first request in 1996, I have been speaking to people convicted of DUI in Atlantic County, New Jersey. The impact of my story has been so phenomenal that the state granted funds to have my speech professionally video-taped. The result is a 35 minute video that touches hearts and changes minds about driving under the influence.
The video contains very touching stories of Matt’s life, details of how he was killed, video of Matt growing up, a minute-long audio of Matt singing at age 5, video clips of his teddy bear, and his gravestone. I also speak of the change Matt’s death brought to our lives.
Because Matthew had a call on his life to be a missionary, I call the video “Matt’s Mission”. Dr. Bob Zlotnick, Executive Director of Atlantic Prevention Resources had this to say about the video:
I have personally spoken to several professionals in the field of drunk driving prevention and at Intoxicated Driver Resource Centers through New Jersey who all state unequivocally that “Matt’s Mission” has made a significant impact on hundreds of their clients.
When I show the video to a group at the Atlantic County IDRC, invariably people come up to me at the end and want to express their profound regret and remorse for drinking and driving, and many of them promise to never do it again. Some even promise to give up drinking forever.
In coursework for my Doctorate in Education, I learned that behavioral changes are more likely if there is an emotional component. The intent of “Matt’s Mission” was to touch people on an emotional level in order to bring about change. In my opinion, and based on anecdotal information and personal observations, I believe we have accomplished that goal and that the message of the video has had a significant impact on many of the thousands of convicted drunk drivers who have viewed it.
Louise spoke to DUI offenders in Atlantic County, NJ, twice a month for almost 24 years. She stopped speaking there in March, 2020. But, “Matt’s Mission” continues as they show the video instead.
To obtain a copy of the 35 minute “Matt’s Mission” DVD, contact:
Atlantic Prevention Resources at 609-272-0101.