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By Monique Vega
Staff Writer
Drug and alcohol counselor Jason Barber spoke to Bishop Amat’s student body about the dangers of drunk driving, Tuesday, during the school’s Red Ribbon Week assembly.
Mr. Barber warned students that having fun with friends has the potential to become something extremely dangerous if alcohol is involved.
During his talk, Mr. Barber told students about his tragic experience with drunk driving.
He told students that after he and a handful of friends shared two cases of beer, they decided to street race.
While racing, Mr. Barber lost control of his truck, flipping it six times and striking another car near a bridge.
In the car, Mr. Barber and his then 15-year-old brother Aaron were not wearing seat belts. His brother hit the windshield and died.
Mr. Barber said he wanted to jump off the nearby bridge after he saw his brother dead. A nearby friend blocked his attempt and he was eventually airlifted to Loma Linda Medical Center.
After being released for treatment of minor injuries, Mr. Barber pleaded guilty to charges of vehicular manslaughter for the death of his brother and served four years in prison.
He said he shares his experience because he wants to prevent students from making bad choices.
“Drunk driving is not an accident. Drunk driving is a choice,” Mr. Barber said.
A majority of the students present were overwhelmed and emotionally affected by the presentation.
“I would feel really guilty because I would carry that with me for the rest of my life,” senior Melissa Dones said. “No one could ever replace my brother or sister. It would just be such an emotional and unforgettable time in my life.”
Students took the drunk driving warning seriously.
“If you are going to drink don’t drive, be responsible for your actions,” senior Hailey Johnson said. “Be smart. Why risk your life or the life of another? Have your friend hold your keys if you are going to decide to drink. Or if your friend or family member drinks in front of you hold their keys even if they are stubborn about it and ask for them.”
Students also realized the dangers of alcohol.
As Mr. Barber shared his story many of the students and faculty became emotional.
“I began to cry and reflected on my life, especially my younger brother,” said senior Cecilia Barrera. “How would I cope about the situation if I were Jason? Overall I learned a valuable lesson and learned that I will never drink and drive.”
