The memory of three Honey Brook and Coatesville area teens were honored on Sunday, raising $14,028 for Mothers Against Drunk Driving.
‘These figures far surpassed the walk’s original goal by over $4,000,’ said event organizer Kate Leger of MADD.
Mothers Against Drunk Driving hosted Walk Like MADD 5K walk, as a memorial for those teens and to raise awareness on May 4.
‘I celebrated my daughter Britany’s birthday today with over 150 people who joined me in honoring her memory,’ said Leger. ‘This was not a day for blame but rather a day to bring awareness and focus onto the tragically devastating consequences of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.’
A ceremony honored the memory of Britany Leger, age 15; Montgomery Wood, age 16; and Myles Mack, age 17.
Incorrectly included in this list in a previous article were Collin McElroy, Jerry Warfel, Kyle Marsh and Evan Pringle. The Tri County Record regrets this error.
According to Leger, PA State Senator Andrew Dinniman spoke about ‘the legislative efforts he is undertaking in Harrisburg to increase statewide penalties for people driving under the influence, particularly repeat offenders.’ Chester County First Assistant District Attorney Michael G. Noone and Downingtown Chief of Police James R. McGowan III also spoke during opening ceremonies about the increased efforts of awareness from each of their perspective offices, she said.
‘My daughter has taught me life is a journey,’ said Leger. ‘I think poet Langston Hughes best described that journey when he wrote, ‘Hold fast to dreams, for if dreams die, life is a broken winged bird that will not fly.’ I am overwhelmingly grateful that so many friends, family and people joined me today in honoring my daughter’s memory and striving to raise awareness.’
Leger noted that there were a total of 16 teams that included 181 registered participants and even some favorite canines, including the walk mascot, Noel Leger.
Previously, Leger told the paper that the date and location of the walk are dear to her heart, choosing to have the walk on what should have been Britany’s 19th birthday rather than the anniversary of the crash. ‘This walk is about saving lives, not mourning the loss of them.’
Struble Trail was one of Britany’s favorite places to ride her bike or walk the dog.
Prior to her involvement with MADD, Leger would speak about the crash and the importance of good decisions with the Crime Victims’ Center of Chester County.
Leger said her number one priority is to raise awareness.
‘Deaths attributed to impaired driving are 100 percent preventable; there is no science involved other than the mystery of people choosing to care, be responsible and not to drink and drive.’
