Drunk drivers destroy lives

To the editor:

Why do people keep driving drunk? If you are old enough to drink, then make the right choice and don’t drive when you have been drinking.

I’ve heard it all — “I’m not drunk,” “I drive better when I’m drinking,” “I’ve only had a few,” and so forth. The truth is, drunk drivers destroy lives, they kill and they maim. Their vehicles becomes no different than loaded weapons being shot blindly into the night with no regard for human life.

Recently a friend of mine — and many others — was hit by one of these drunk drivers. Monday, Nov. 15, John Robb’s life was almost taken by a drunk driver, as reported in the Nov. 19 Frontiersman.

Of course, the drunk driver basically walked away while my friend, John, fought for his life. He woke up after a week to find both of his legs crushed, all of his ribs broken, along with his pelvic bone and minus his spleen. These are just a few of his injuries. John will most likely spend Christmas in the hospital while the drunk driver will probably be sitting at home with friends and family. I understand he was in jail less than a day.

I would like to thank all the Valley residents who prayed for John; the doctors didn’t think he would make it. Also, thank you to the fire department, paramedics, helicopter personnel and doctors, you did an excellent job then and continue to do so. Thank you for saving his life.

John has a long road of recovery in front of him. He basically, has to learn to walk again. He is the father of three children; two boys in elementary school and a 1-year-old baby girl.

Christmas is around the corner and this family could use your help. Valley residents, show that we care about our neighbors, if you can. There is an account set up for donations at Mat Valley Federal Credit Union, Account No. 132009.

Please also remember when you drive down the road that at any minute a drunk driver can try to take you out. Be aware of those who drink and drive, they are out there and they don’t care.

To the drunk driver in this incident, I hope you get at least five years for every bone that my friend broke and you suffer financially for this for the rest of your life.

Please, Valley residents, let’s choose to drink wisely this holiday season and let’s help John’s family have the best Christmas possible.

Ken Cox

Wasilla