Timmins Chapter of Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) held its Strides for Change walk and BBQ last Saturday at the Gilles Lake Conservation Area.
Strides for Change is an annual 5 km walk held as an effort to remind people of the devastation impaired driving can cause.
The campaign is held in the spring time because alcohol-related injuries and accidents are higher during warmer months.
The event is part of a national campaign and the Timmins MADD chapter joins London, Kanata and Timiskaming in Ontario, as well as Edmonton in Alberta as hosts of Strides For Change events.
Volunteers, victims, and supporters attended the event to walk around Gilles Lake, raising funds and awareness. Activities included face painting, mini putt provided by Putt Around Town, music provided by MRG DJ Services, and a BBQ offering hamburgers and hot dogs.
One victim in attendance was Tina Saudino who was struck by a drunk driver while out for a jog in Timmins a year and a half ago.
MADD Timmins reached out to Tina Saudino after her accident and has offered much appreciated support and resources.
Tina Saudino said awareness of the impact of drunk driving on victims and their families is very important. A year and a half after her accident, she is still going through various appointments and stages of recovery.
“MADD Timmins has been excellent in providing support to victims, including myself. They’ve provided information and resources that really help," Saudino said. "Before my accident, I didn’t know Timmins had a MADD chapter.”
Events like Stride for Change help bring awareness to the issues of driving while impaired by the effects of alcohol and raise funds for the MADD chapters.
If you would like to register or volunteer for next years’ Stride for Change 5km walk, please click here
