Loss of life, trauma, physical and emotional damage are just a few of the potential realities that could happen as a result of drinking and driving.

Students at McMillen High School in Murphy were exposed to these realities thanks to Shattered Dreams.

The program, which was held Thursday, March 21, involves an accident reenactment, guest speakers and a coordination effort between Murphy Police Department and Murphy Fire-Rescue, along with Medical City of Plano, Wylie Auto Towing, CareFlite air ambulance and Aria Funeral Home.

“The Shattered Dreams program is a program that I saw as a senior in high school and remember the impact it had on me. Upon becoming an SRO, I wanted to reach out to the students in a way that could make a difference,” School Resource Officer Kris Riebschlager said. “We have hoped to convey to the students the dangers of drinking and driving, and the amount of loss that can occur in just one day. Statistically, one person is severely injured or killed in an alcohol related incident every 15 minutes. In the course of one school day, that means we lose about 24 students.”

For the full story, see the March 28 issue or subscribe online.

By Wyndi Veigel • [email protected]