It was a bright September morning when my daughter, Lily, was filled with excitement. She was going out with her dad, just the two of them. The rest of the kids were still asleep, and we were enjoying the beautiful sunshine on the porch, eagerly waiting for his arrival. He was taking her to help a friend named Sarah move, someone Lily adored after an enjoyable birthday party just weeks prior.
Lily, with her striking blue eyes and remnants of a summer tan, couldn’t wait to go. It reminded me how kids seem to tan so effortlessly—a quality my older children often lament about. The beginning of the school year had been tumultuous, disrupted by a historic flood in our small Upstate New York town. Schools had been closed for an entire week, leaving the kids restless and ready for some adventure.
When he finally pulled up, Lily dashed to the car after a quick kiss goodbye from me. She was thrilled to have this time with her dad, especially since the last few years had been difficult after our separation. I often felt conflicted about my decision to end our marriage, but ultimately, I knew I had to prioritize my children’s well-being. His reliance on alcohol had made it impossible for him to fulfill his role as a father.
That morning, I felt a sense of relief knowing he hadn’t had time to drink yet. The child services worker had advised me to be vigilant about alcohol, but I also couldn’t prevent them from spending time together. I took a deep breath, reassured by Lily’s enthusiasm and her sweet prayer for a perfect day.
About 45 minutes later, the phone rang, shattering my moment of peace. A first responder was on the line, and my heart sank as she explained that there had been an accident. My ex-husband had lost control of the car and crashed into a ditch. While Lily was unharmed, he was being charged with DWI after testing 0.12—nearly double the legal limit.
The drive to the accident scene felt endless. Each turn of the wheels tightened my anger and fear. Upon arriving, I was met with flashing lights and the sight of my ex-husband slumped against a patrol car. The police informed me that he was being arrested under Leandra’s Law, and my heart broke for Lily.
When I reached the truck where my daughter was waiting, relief washed over me. Although she was scared, she was safe. I reassured her, reminding her that the accident wasn’t her fault, despite her young mind grappling with guilt. The drive home was filled with her tears and my thoughts racing back to the crumpled vehicle just inches from a tree.
Our home erupted into chaos upon our return. Questions flew, and emotions ran high, but I struggled to find answers. My ex was driven home later that day, quickly securing a lawyer and pleading guilty to avoid jail time, but the consequences lingered. He faced probation and an interlock system for his car, and yet he still drank.
For the safety of my children, I obtained a court order preventing him from driving anyone under 18. But this raises a troubling question: who is protecting our children from the many impaired drivers on the road? Alcohol has always been a significant issue in my life, and I had only given it up two months before that fateful day. I often reflect on how close we came to tragedy that morning.
Please, if you find yourself in a situation where you might be tempted to drink and drive, consider alternatives. Call a cab or stay home! We were fortunate that day, but countless families are not. As we enter a season filled with celebrations—like July 4th and Labor Day—let’s prioritize safety and ensure that joy is the only thing knocking at our doors.
Almost five years later, I feel compelled to share this story. The lesson here? We must learn from our experiences and take a stand against drinking and driving.
For further insights on protecting your loved ones from drunk driving, consider visiting resources like MADD or American Pregnancy.
Summary:
In a heartfelt narrative, Jessica Thompson recounts a harrowing experience involving her daughter, Lily, and her ex-husband’s recklessness with alcohol. After a DWI incident, she reflects on the dangers of drinking and driving, especially as summer celebrations approach. This story serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of prioritizing safety and protecting loved ones from impaired drivers.