CALL

317.289.3242

Email

steve@hendrickscountysso.com

The following comments are from those who have successfully attended a Survivor Speakout Victim Impact Panel.


——————–
February 25, 2026 – After listening to the victim impact panel, especially hearing the mother who lost her child 20 years ago and still carries that pain every single day, it truly made me realize how important it is to think before you act. One decision can change lives forever. I can accept that I made a wrong decision. I understand that my choice is what put me on probation and in this class. My heart hurts for that mother and for every family who has lost someone because of someone else’s actions. I thank God that my poor decision did not result in a far worse situation. Listening to the panel made me think deeply about the victims and their families. They are the ones who have to live with the pain for the rest of their lives. When someone takes a life, whether intentionally or not, it doesn’t just end one life — it impacts so many others. In many ways, their lives are changed forever too. My life is interrupted for a period of time because of my mistake, but for others, the consequences last a lifetime. The panel of speakers made me realize that my testimony is really a “thank you, God.” My mother could have been on that panel telling the story of losing her child. Even worse, my children could have been the ones sharing how their mother’s actions caused tragedy in their lives. I am deeply thankful that I did not ruin my life, my children’s lives, my family’s lives, or take the life of someone else because of my irresponsible decision-making. This experience has opened my eyes, and I am committed to making better choices moving forward. RD
——————–
February 25, 2026 – Survivor Speakout victim impact panel is something I would recommend to everybody. You will never really know the harm you could cause until you see and hear stories like these. This panel has impacted me deeply seeing so many lives taken over the decisions we make . these innocent people did not deserve their lives to be cut short, its not fair and the families should not have to grieve over senseless actions of impaired drivers. when I was 12 I lost my neighbors a married couple that had been my neighbors my whole life to a drunk driver , less then a mile from their home. seeing and hearing these stories brought back the memories of that day it was so unfair to me that they both passed and the driver lived . my decision to drive impaired could of had that same outcome on another family and innocent life . I vow to never drive under the influence again . thank you for sharing these stories. DP
——————–
February 25, 2026 – Thanks for showing me your professional compassion Steve. Make me feel much blessed to have as opportunity to share another day with a great people, I will never forget your recommendation to think about myself, my family and others people families and love……thanks. WM
——————–
February 25, 2026 – I was deeply touched and moved to tears watching, listening to these people’s life stories. My heart breaks for what the victims and their loved ones (survivors) lost, endured and will continue to endure. Steve is a beautiful soul and a great speaker/teacher. I am not proud of the decisions I’ve made in the past and I not only commit to never driving impaired again but will share this experience with my children and others. Thank you Steve and may God Bless you, the families and everyone involved in this very important program. LK
——————–
February 25, 2026 – It was very graphic and informative. They didn’t hold back on the images or the videos, which needs to be seen by everyone in my opinion. The body cam on the officer informing a mother that her son had been killed in an accident really it home for me, you could see the pain in her eyes and in her voice. No mother or father should ever have to go through that experience. Its not just the people killed who are impacted, its everyone that ever loved or cared for that person. I think anyone who has taken this course walks away with a better understanding of the consequences that comes with driving impaired. These stories will definitely stick with me, especially when I drive down Cartersburg RD and see those memorials of those two young people that lost their lives. BH
——————–
February 25, 2026 – After attending the panel and seeing all the different victim and thinking back on my situation one wrong choice like getting in the car impaired could drastically change so many lives. Nobody can change their ways overnight but sometimes it’s all about understanding that you need help and understanding there is some help out there for you. Everybody life matters, don’t let one decision alter yours, your family, friends, or innocent individuals’ lives. JA
——————–
February 25, 2026 – Things happen on purpose. That was the truthful statement that I needed to hear. All the outcomes, the consequences….they weren’t “accidents”…it was done with purpose by the choices I made. This session brought the reality, the severity, the effect of what a person decides to do. In my case, it was drinking. I am forever grateful that I didn’t harm anyone or anything else, and luckily myself. It’s a blessing in disguise to what Steve offers with this. NC
——————–
February 21, 2026 – It was a great meeting . I understand now why it’s called a “impact panel“ because it really impacted me on how I see things about impaired drivers and the consequences that come along with them . Steve is a great guy he did an amazing performance on educating us about the importance of driving impaired and how it can ruin your life or the life of others . Thanks to Steve and this program I will definitely think twice about ever getting behind a wheel impaired. JP
——————–
February 21, 2026 – It was very difficult to see and hear the pictures and stories of the devastation that drinking and driving has brought to so many families. It will forever change me and has definitely made an impact on me. MR
——————–
February 21, 2026 – What an eye opening class presented with compassion and honest truth. The devastating impact of driving under the influence was heart wrenching. There were no accidents but choices was a huge take away. I am responsible for a poor decision to drive after drinking and am ashamed of it. This whole experience has been a great lesson and I am, oddly enough, grateful for the growth and understanding. SS
——————–
February 21, 2026 – Survivor Speakout Victim Impact Panel was very impactful. Before the panel, I felt remorse mainly because what was happening to me. This helped me look at my mistake from others perspective and what could have happened. BW
——————–
February 21, 2026 – I did not think it was going to be so graphic and detailed. Seeing real dead people really makes what you’ve done even if you didn’t get hurt or hurt anyone else makes you feel like you could’ve done that, and that thought alone is quite powerful enough. It should make anyone not ever even want to drink again period. At least, that’s how I feel. To see someone’s dead grandma, son, daughter, lifeless and unable to continue living their life while I continue my own, is rough to say the least. I was genuinely moved by this experience, while also quite disturbed. I will never put my life or anyone else’s at stake for selfish decisions ever again, that is for sure. These poor people really had to see it and they live with that image in their head. How horrible to think I could’ve done that to someone’s baby, loved one. GV
——————–
January 10, 2026 – I took this class in person many years ago in person. I will say this meant so much more this time around. When I took this class years ago, It was a lot of 20-40 year old pictures and videos. A lot of the pictures and videos were in black and white they were so old. This time they were all very recent tragedies. I had actually heard of 3 of the tragedies. The older couple that was killed, I actually saw that crash with my own eyes after the fact. I happen to be riding my bike on the trails in the parks around the crash site as they were closing all of Rockville Road down in both directions for hours. Noah Wells, I knew him as a very little kid and had even dated his mother several years before his crash. The young lady killed (on U.S 40), I had heard about that crash the day after it happened. Very sorry for all of the victims, even the victims from 20-40 years ago, but this definitely hit harder this time being all more recent. The spokesman was to the point and did a good job presenting the material and treating everyone like adults. NA
——————–
January 10, 2026 – I decided to write my Testimonial before reading the others. I first want to say how deeply sorry I am to the victim’s families and friends. The Survivors. I am forever mentally changed. This is a must see/hear. The images were so graphic, that I felt I was there in person. I couldn’t help but feel guilt. Guilt for all the times I’ve been intoxicated behind a wheel, guilt for the pain of the affected families. I somehow felt responsible, although I wasn’t the person driving…..THIS TIME! Mr. Steven was awesome, his words resonated with me, he is deeply compassionate. I appreciate him as a teacher/speaker, because it’s a difference when someone speaks from experience. We all go though things, and every one of our decisions have consequences. I’m thankful at the moment for not wanting to drink, let alone drive. It has been a LONG time coming. I will continue to take my Sobriety seriously. The thought of my actions resulting in pain, or hurt to another person makes me sick. Let alone being to blame for someone’s death. I’m better than that. I cherish life, and I respect and love other people. I’m in the season of holding myself accountable. I thank Hendricks County Officers for saving my life, and others lives the day I was stopped, and charged. Everyone should see this. Sometimes we as humans don’t see trouble until it knocks on our doors. A lot of our choices are avoidable, driving while inebriated is definitely an example of one. God Bless whoever is reading this! IH
——————–
January 10, 2026 – I was going into this without really expecting a lot, but this experience really changed the way I look at things. Seeing the reaction of an actual survivors is extremely heart breaking, I don’t know what that feels like but I know I wouldn’t wish it on my worst enemy. Your actions have consequences and seeing actual consequences and the way they affect OTHERS changes your view point on so many things.
thank you for the eye opening opportunity. EC
——————–
January 10, 2026 – I was advised to take this course for my probation and by no means did I expect to see or experience what I did. I know while we are living life and enjoying ourselves we are not thinking about what could happen to ourselves or the people around us. And being able to see and experience what could have very possibly been other side of my own actions has really got to me and made me revaluate my choices and actions. This experience has been very impactful and informational to how quickly someone’s life could be taken, someone’s child taken, someone’s family member taken by one simple decision to get behind the wheel after drinking or using drugs. I never expected to experience what I did tonight from this class but I am very thankful that I did and hope this class continues to have the impact it did on me on other people so that it may possibly safe some of the innocent lives out that would be taken away. Thank You. KM
——————–
January 10, 2026 – I expected to be affected by this class, but in no way did I expect it would have such a profound, impactful meaning that I would be at a complete loss for words and be left in the condition it placed me in…. I don’t know how to write this without breaking down, because I haven’t stopped breaking down since this program. I am not just crying a little. I am sobbing to the point where everything is soaked, and my eyes are swollen, burning, and raw, because it doesn’t stop. I feel gutted. Completely gutted. And no words feel big enough to hold the feelings this program made me feel. The images won’t leave. They just keep coming back. Beautiful people who were alive and recognizable and loved, and then suddenly they weren’t. Teenagers. Families. Elderly people who were just out having a good day. Lives that ended violently and families who had no choice but to live inside that moment forever… What I do know is that what this program did for me cannot be combined into simple language or expressed in the ordinary words and terms we use in everyday life. This program was intense, and extremely graphic. It showed a whole other side to what families who lose loved ones go through, all the way from watching real-life death notifications, to stories and pictures of the crime scenes, and in-depth photos of the victims, live cam footage and of course hearing from the mother of one of the children. Watching while one mother collapses on the floor when she is told her child has died, and then seeing the panic, the confusion, the inability to function or even know what to do next, and hearing the terror in her screams is unbearable. And yet she chose to allow the world to see that moment — the worst moment of her life — so that others might understand the cost and so that someone else might be spared that pain. That level of courage is beyond comprehension. The mother who had the courage to get up and tell her son’s story. To hear her speak about her precious boy and his dreams and goals, and the unthinkable world she must now live in. To see her pain that will never go away and watch her courage as she helps make a difference in hopes that no one else will feel her pain. It broke something in me that hasn’t stopped breaking. I can’t stop thinking about the sound of her voice when she talked about her son, who will forever be eighteen. Forever. No more birthdays. No more growing up. No more future. No grandchildren. No ordinary days. Just frozen in time. And yet she still stands up and speaks. She still cries. And she speaks anyway, because she wants to stop this from happening to someone else. That kind of strength is unimaginable. Truly unimaginable. And my heart breaks for her with every fiber in my being. This program made the finality real in a way I don’t think can ever be undone. One moment. One choice. One mistake. And nothing fixes it. Nothing explains it away. Nothing brings anyone back. Apologies don’t matter. Regret doesn’t matter. Love doesn’t matter once it’s done. There is no undo. This program made the responsibility we carry when we get behind the wheel terrifyingly real. I cannot stop thinking about that. This program has made it impossible for me to forget, and I don’t want to forget. I will carry these stories, these images, and these families with me for the rest of my life, and they have changed me at the deepest level of who I am in a way I do not have words for. There is no word in the human dictionary that fully captures what this has done to me… I can’t stop thinking about the responsibility we carry when we get behind the wheel. Not abstract responsibility. Real responsibility. Responsibility that costs people their lives and destroys families. This program didn’t just tell me that — it showed me, and now I can’t unsee it. The faces are burned into me. The stories are burned into me. The parents’ words are burned into me. I will carry them for the rest of my life. I am not the same person I was before this class, and I don’t think I could ever go back even if I wanted to… I also want to acknowledge the gentleman who put this program together and continues to run it. The way this program was presented mattered. It did not feel like a lecture or an attempt to scare or shame anyone. It felt deliberate and heavy with truth. The amount of work that goes into gathering these stories, honoring the victims and their families, and continuing to add to this program so the reality of this problem in our own community is not minimized is enormous. The care taken in how this was presented shows real respect for the lives lost and the families left behind. This program exists because he chose to carry these stories forward, and that choice matters. He did a tremendous job creating a program that carries an impact far beyond anything I expected. What he put together reached every person in that room. I watched grown men break down and cry. This was not a presentation people could sit through untouched. It reached all of us, deeply…I cannot stop thinking about that. This program has made it impossible for me to forget, and I don’t want to forget. I will carry these stories, these images, and these families with me for the rest of my life, and they have changed me at the deepest level of who I am in a way I do not have words for. There is no word in the human dictionary that fully captures what this has done to me…I can’t stop thinking about the responsibility we carry when we get behind the wheel. Not abstract responsibility. Real responsibility. Responsibility that costs people their lives and destroys families. This program didn’t just tell me that — it showed me, and now I can’t unsee it…The faces are burned into me. The stories are burned into me. The parents’ words are burned into me. I will carry them for the rest of my life. I am not the same person I was before this class, and I don’t think I could ever go back even if I wanted to…I also want to acknowledge the gentleman who put this program together and continues to run it. The way this program was presented mattered. It did not feel like a lecture or an attempt to scare or shame anyone. It felt deliberate and heavy with truth. The amount of work that goes into gathering these stories, honoring the victims and their families, and continuing to add to this program so the reality of this problem in our own community is not minimized is enormous. The care taken in how this was presented shows real respect for the lives lost and the families left behind. This program exists because he chose to carry these stories forward, and that choice matters. He did a tremendous job creating a program that carries an impact far beyond anything I expected. What he put together reached every person in that room. I watched grown men break down and cry. This was not a presentation people could sit through untouched. It reached all of us, deeply. KD
——————–
January 10, 2026 – I attended the Survivor Speak Out Panel regarding Operating While Intoxicated was an impactful and educational experience. The survivors’ firsthand accounts clearly demonstrated the serious and lasting physical, emotional, and financial consequences that impaired driving has on victims and their families. This panel reinforced that operating a vehicle while intoxicated is not a victimless offense and emphasized the responsibility individuals have to make safe and lawful decisions. Participating in this program and watching multiple videos increased my understanding of the real‑world harm caused by impaired driving and strengthened my commitment to prevent future risky behavior. I appreciate the survivors for sharing their experiences and Mr. Steve Pyatte the program coordinator for providing this required and meaningful educational opportunity, Thank you. WP
——————–
January 10, 2026 – This program showed me the gravity of impaired driving. You hear stories of how bad the accidents it can cause can be, but the stories are brief and usually stop at a simple ‘this thing happened’, nothing more is said about the accident. To actually see the amount of damage, to see the wreckage, to see the victims afterwards… it was more than anything I had ever previously imagined. Hearing from our speaker how the events of what happened to their family, how they are still effect them to this day, took an emotional toll. This program is something that will remain with me for the rest of my life. JB
——————–
January 10, 2026 – These stories made me realize that my choices could have a far reaching impact on a wide range of people. The victims were innocent people that were at the wrong place at the wrong time. The offenders made a bad decision that impacted the lives of more than just the victims, their families, and friends. JP
——————–
January 10, 2026 – Attending the Survivor Impact Panel today had a profound effect on me. Hearing directly from victims and families who have been permanently impacted by drunk and impaired driving made the consequences of my actions feel real in a way they never had before. One story that deeply affected me was from a mother who lost her son in a drunk driving accident involving his friends. Listening to her describe the pain of losing her child, the life he will never get to live, and the lifelong grief her family now carries was heartbreaking. It forced me to confront the fact that impaired driving does not just affect the driver—it destroys families, futures, and entire communities. Before this panel, I understood impaired driving was dangerous, but I did not fully grasp the emotional devastation it causes. Seeing the strength of the survivors and hearing how one decision can change countless lives made me reflect deeply on the day I was arrested for driving impaired. I recognize now that my choice was reckless and selfish, and that I put not only my own life at risk, but the lives of innocent people who did nothing to deserve that danger. I feel genuine remorse knowing that my actions could have caused irreversible harm similar to what I heard about today. Moving forward, I am committed to using what I learned from this panel to ensure I never repeat this mistake. I will never drive while impaired again, under any circumstances. I will plan ahead, use safe transportation options, and hold myself fully accountable for my decisions. This experience has changed how I think about responsibility and the impact of my choices. I will carry the stories of the victims and survivors with me as a constant reminder of what is at stake, and I am committed to making safer, more responsible choices from this point forward. AW
——————–
January 10, 2026 – I walked into the victims panel thinking I understood pain. I believed I already knew the consequences of impaired driving because I survived an accident myself. I had lived through the fear, the confusion, the aftermath. I carried scars that time never fully erased. I thought survival meant understanding. I was wrong.
This time, I did not sit in the story as the one who made it out. I sat in the room with people who never got that ending. I saw photographs of faces frozen in moments that would never age. I heard names spoken the way people speak prayers, slowly, carefully, afraid of breaking something fragile. I listened to a mother talk about her son, not as a statistic, not as a lesson, but as a living person whose laugh, habits, and dreams were once part of her daily life. Then I watched a body camera video. I saw a police officer walk up to a door. I saw the moment a mother was told her child was gone. There was no buildup. No time to prepare. Just impact. Immediate, irreversible impact. Her body reacted before her mind could catch up. The sound she made was not anger. It was not blame. It was pure loss. A sound that does not fade, even when the moment ends. That is when I understood something I had never fully grasped before. Forgiveness and healing are not the same thing. You can forgive someone and still live with pain that never leaves. You can refuse to forgive and still wake up every day carrying the same weight. Time does not erase it. Perspective does not remove it. It only teaches you how to live with it. I have lived with pain from an accident that could have ended differently. I know survivor guilt. I know what it feels like to replay moments and wonder why the outcome was what it was. But until that panel, I had never truly looked at impaired driving through the eyes of the people left behind. I had never sat with the reality that for them, there is no moving on. There is only moving forward while carrying something that cannot be put down. What changed for me was not just my view on impaired driving. What changed was my view on responsibility. On choices. On how quickly a single decision can fracture lives that had nothing to do with the moment it was made. Impaired driving is not a mistake that ends when the vehicle stops. It is a ripple that moves outward, touching parents, siblings, children, friends, first responders, and even strangers who are forced to witness the aftermath. I learned that pain does not ask permission. It does not care whether someone is forgiven or not. It stays. And because it stays, our responsibility is greater than we like to admit. We do not get to measure risk only by what we think we can handle. We have to measure it by what others might be forced to carry forever. That panel did not shame me. It humbled me. It reminded me that life is not just about surviving our own storms. It is about not becoming the storm in someone else’s life. I left with a deeper respect for life, a heavier awareness of consequence, and a commitment to choices that honor the people who no longer have the chance to make theirs. This experience did not just change how I think about impaired driving. It changed how I think about every decision that puts others in the balance. And that lesson is one I will carry forward, fully aware that some pain never goes away, but some pain can be prevented. JW
——————–
January 10, 2026 – Today I attended a Survivor Speak Out Victim Impact Panel, and it was truly one of the most eye-opening experiences I’ve ever had. Over the course of the two-hour session, I was confronted with real stories, real loss, and the very real consequences of impaired and distracted driving. The images and stories shared were difficult to see and hear, but they were powerful and necessary. Hearing a parent speak about losing her son was absolutely heartbreaking, and it put into perspective how one decision can change countless lives forever. This class went far beyond statistics or legal consequences—it made the impact personal. It forced me to reflect on my own choices and truly understand how impairment in any form, whether alcohol, drugs, distraction, fatigue, or inattention, can have irreversible outcomes. I am incredibly thankful to the survivors and parents who had the courage to share their stories so others might learn from their pain. This experience has deeply affected me, and it will absolutely influence my decisions moving forward. I leave with a greater sense of responsibility, awareness, and gratitude for the opportunity to learn before tragedy strikes again. JA
——————–
January 10, 2026 – Upon class completion I now see that I was taking too much for granted. Life and living with or around family, loved ones, even friends is the ultimate gift. The true uncensored graphic nature of the class can be seen as a positive tool in a sense, because it is the only way to have the severity of one wrong decision to truly sink in. I am sober of all and have been for 8 months. This class is great motivation to continue sobriety. Thank you Mr. Pyatte. SB
——————–
January 10, 2026 – Today I had the unfortunate opportunity to not only hear a survivor speak out of losing her son in a horrific crash, but had the ability to see a mother be told from a police officer that she had lost her son…That video of her breaking down and crying, was the most impactful for me… I never looked at this side of the end result of what could of happened the night I was arrested for drunk driving, but seeing it through the eyes of a police officer, put it into real life for me, and knowing that I could have not only ended someone’s life; but also the lives of there family and friends is what impacted me the most. Seeing or hearing the officer start to cry as well, is something I hope I never have to be the reason of. I would suggest going to one of these impact panels whether it’s mandatory, or not. It opens your eyes to the after effects of what could be caused and seeing the grief on a mother 10 years after an accident is something I never want to see again. I have quit drinking on my own after my arrest, but this makes it that much easier to say I don’t need to drink at all. I never want to be the reason for an officer telling a mother her child is gone. JH
——————–
January 10, 2026 – You don’t realize when you get in your car, under the influence. The impact that you make on other people and yourself. I appreciate your time and effort in providing a very thorough meeting. Very informative and very heart wrenching, thank you. RL
——————–
January 10, 2026 – This morning I attended a session of the Hendricks County Survivor Speakout Victim Impact Panel. The key word in that title for me is “Impact”. I’m not sure that I have ever had anything in my life impact me as much as this presentation, on an emotional and spiritual level. The emotional shock, profound sadness and utter shame that I felt after seeing the video and especially the testimony given by the mother of a victim of an impaired driver crash will affect me for the rest of my life. I thank the Lord with every particle of my being that my particular impaired driving incident only resulted in my arrest, and did not affect any innocent people. Prayers of gratitude go out to Steve, the Sheriff’s Deputy and especially the mother of the young man that was killed for giving their time to educate impaired driving offenders on the potential heartbreaking and horrific consequences of impaired driving. DH
——————–
January 10, 2026 – Attending the Victim Impact Panel class was a powerful and eye opening experience for me. Hearing the victims and families who have been affected by impaired driving made the consequences of these choices very real. Before this class, I understood the risks of drinking and driving in a general way, but listening to their personal stories helped me truly grasp the emotional, physical, and lifelong impact that one decision can have on so many people. It made me reflect deeply on my own actions and the potential harm I could have caused. Plus since September after I was released from jail I decided to stay off alcohol because I was tired of waking up in jail or the hospital due to my alcoholic ways. I am now almost 4 months sober and enjoying life a lot more and me and my fiancé are a lot happier since I decided to quit drinking. JP
——————–
January 10, 2026 – Seeing the victims hearing the survivor and the notification of a loved one hurts. I have a granddaughter at that age just starting to drive and seeing my children or grandchildren it affects way more than yourself the notification of a loved one you don’t realize the impact of 1 thing could affect so many. So much pain this effects so many people by your or my actions. THANK YOU! JQ
——————–
January 6, 2026 – Attending the Survivor Speakout (victim impact panel) was extremely powerful. Gaining a further understanding of how my actions can impact others was very evident in today’s session. The thought of not being present for my wife, children, and family should scare anyone straight. Thank you to the families willing to share their stories about their loved ones. The raw emotion is something I will never forget. God bless you all. JB
——————–
January 6, 2026 – 100 % worth watching this program help me understand it is my choice to do bad or good. After going through this program I decided not drive when I am Intoxicated. AB
——————–
January 6, 2026 – Today was one of the most eye-opening couple of hours I’ve ever had. I really appreciate the approach to how you’ve taught this session. Although I hope to never take your class again. I’m very appreciative. All the best and believe me, if I see you out, I will definitely give you a hug! GB
——————–
November 15, 2025 – After going to the victim impact panel it really made me think about my decisions and my decisions going forward. Just hearing them speak out really did something to my heart and soul and how things could have played out. I’m very appreciative to hear the other side of their story’s and get a different perspective on situations like this. And a huge thank you to Steve because he made us feel comfortable and making it known that we are all the same and this could be us if we don’t think before we do. KD
——————–
November 15, 2025 – The Survivor Speakout impact panel impacted me by showing me the other perspective. I haven’t really thought about how much the family of the victim goes through. I never got arrested, I don’t even remember anything until about a week after my crash. I should have died in my car accident, thank god I didn’t. But now knowing what the families go though I cant imagine putting my own family though that. I learned that driving under the influence is not worth the pain that the victims, survivors or the guilty go through. BS
——————–
November 15, 2025 – I was detained for driving under the influence of alcohol. This incident showed me how one bad decision can put my life and the lives of others in danger. Going through the legal process made me understand the real consequences of drinking and driving. I take full responsibility for my actions. This experience has taught me to make better choices and to never drive after drinking again. I am committed to being more responsible and to always think about safety first. This course has helped me understand the impact of alcohol and how important it is to prevent situations like this in the future. YR
——————–
November 15, 2025 – Survivor Speakout is without a doubt impactful. Led by Steve Pyatte, a commanding, respectful, honest director this panel consists of true accounts from survivors and is as real as it gets. They are living and breathing right in front of you describing the pain they carry everyday of their lives because of someone else’s bad decision. Decisions are made everyday but some can change lives forever. If there was ever anything that could keep me from choosing to drink and drive again, it is this panel. I will never forget what I witnessed as the survivors will never forget the victims. God Bless. JA
——————–
November 15, 2025 – Today was another game changer in the choice I made to drive impaired. After my (bad) choice I have looked at myself of how could I do something like this and what if I hurt or even killed someone or even myself. How would I even go on with my life knowing I did that, how could I look my family, my wife, and my kids in the eyes anymore? I don’t think I would be able to at all. Today opened my eyes even more and I really wish more people had the opportunity to attend these classes. I will be speaking out myself for my choice to individuals around me and the importance of the choices we make and the impact it can have. TA
——————–
November 15, 2025 – I met Steve at the victim impact panel. The stories were horrifying. The people impacted by dunk drivers and their stories made me cry. I hope no one drives drunk and kills anyone. Families will be hurt and feel the loss that never goes away. JH
——————–
November 13, 2025 – This program was very well organized, and the information displayed was something out of a horror movie, except this is real life and this could be anyone’s reality and consequences from being impaired behind the wheel of the vehicle. I will advocate this information and knowledge of how fast and fragile life becomes behind the wheel of an impaired driver for the rest of my life to friends, family, and strangers. This program should be taught and educated in schools to educate the population in a more grotesque manner because the current methods simply aren’t enough at scaring us straight from a young age. I will remember to honor the unwritten contract while operating any vehicle on or off the road to protect myself and others in an attempt to save lives and families from unnecessary grief. LS
——————–
November 13, 2025 – Survivor Speak Out has impacted my life drastically, I was a woman that would get behind the wheel intoxicated daily, without a single thought that I could hurt myself and or others. SSO changed that on 11/13/2025. I could literally feel Bryce King’s mother’s pain through my laptop and it was devastating and very painful. All of the stories were and (because of) that I WILL NOT be driving under the influence ever again. I never ever thought about the harm I could create by driving impaired and that was very selfish, ignorant, inconsiderate and evil of me. From this day forward I will do it for BRYCE KING – FOREVER 23, ABIGAIL SCHEIBELHUT – FOREVER 26, GERALD & RHONDA LEGAN – FOREVER 80, BRITTANY FIELDS – FOREVER 21, ELIZABETH TATE, FOREVER 17, and KAYLEY MATHERS – FOREVER 18. Thanks for being my reason. SH
——————–
November 13, 2025 – Jail hit my mental with ensuring I will never make the same or similar mistakes again, but MAN! This fiercely hit my heart. This definitely changed my whole perspective of “Eh, it won’t happen to me” to “Well, look at what happens if it does.” AH
——————–
November 13, 2025 – I am glad that they have programs that are very informative like survivor speak out. It gave me a different perspective on the decisions that I make and how it can impact me and the people around. And that good decision making is very important in everyday living because one wrong decision can change your life completely. So basically I enjoyed the program got tools to continue forward and got to hear and see different perspectives and outlooks of situations that could have been avoided. JW
——————–
November 13, 2025 – Being an EMT I’ve been on calls like this. These images and videos hit really close to home, especially the last one. Hearing him scream out “babe” and “baby” for his wife made me think of the love of my life. I should know better. I will do better. Thank you, Steve! Love you too brother. NP
——————–
October 20, 2025 – Watching what we did today made my stomach hurt honestly. I’ve already taken my alcohol course at advantage in Plainfield which helped me a lot. But, seeing all of those crime scene photos at Survivor Speakout made me not want to drink even more. I know a lot of people call it an accident but today I realized its not an accident and id be devastated if one of my friends or loved ones ended up how one of those victims did.. I know before I’ve driven thinking id be fine and make it home safe but all of those people thought that same thing too anything can happen and I wont take life or my freedom for advantage ever again. getting a dui sucked, but honestly I’m glad I got in trouble because I prolly would still be drinking and driving if I didn’t and now I’m able to be a good role model for my friends who try to drink/smoke and drive. Thank you for your time and knowledge 🙂 DK
——————–
October 20, 2025 – The survivor stories put into perspective the huge risks that I took when I decided to drive impaired. The stories made me realize that not only am I putting myself in danger, but I am putting everyone else that is on the roads in danger. When I decided to drive impaired, I was not thinking about the danger of what could happen to me or other drivers. The crime scene photos and dashcam videos made me really understand the pain and agony that could occur to potential victims’ and their families and evidence of what that looked truly looked like. Attending Survivor Speak out taught me that driving impaired is selfish and dangerous and that I cannot ever repeat the mistakes I made because horrific things can happen to me or other innocent drivers. CW
——————–
October 20, 2025 – The Survivor Speakout Panel impacted be in several ways. The first thing that resonated with me was how we as drivers have a responsibility to each other not to drive impaired. It made me feel selfish to break that with other drivers as we all depend on each other to be safe. While listening to the victims stories I was thinking about how it could have been me that caused the crashes. Not only to be at fault for taking an innocent persons life but the damage caused to their surviving family. The body cam footage of Bryce’s mother showed first hand the effect. I thought about myself as a father receiving news like that. The photos made me feel the same way. Seeing the pictures and thinking to myself “what if this was my daughter or son?” was eye opening. It felt unfair that the victims were going to miss out future life experiences. The victims families lives being altered forever felt unimaginable. I thought about how impaired driving is not, and might not ever be, taken as serious as it should be. People who drive impaired, myself was included, will think it will not happen to them. They will think they are fine. That could not be more far from the truth. Nothing is worth the cost of a life and the impact it has on loved ones. JH
——————–
October 20, 2025 – I attended the victim impact meeting and it was really emotional to say the least. Seeing those images were very heart breaking and nothing that I would won’t to witness on either side of the event. I’ve learned a lesson and something that will sit with me are my friends who let others drive impaired I don’t think I could allow that again. A Lyft ride is so much cheaper than being dead or in jail. I needed that meeting it really touched me in a different way. AG
——————–
October 18, 2025 – I would like to thank Steve and all the survivors for coming forward to this program. This program definitely has opened my eyes to what could’ve happened. No excuse for me putting myself in the situation I was in. Hearing the stories from the families just makes me not want to put myself in that situation again. The photos of what happened to there love ones is something I don’t want my family to go through or anyone to go through for that matter. The amount of courage it takes to stand in front of a room full of strangers and tell there stories is just unbelievable. The amount of pain the families are feeling while going through this is just surreal. So for that I want to thank them for being so courageous in doing so. The biggest thing I took away from the Survivor Speakout program is that it could’ve been me on that wall and my family would have to be the one to share my story. I was only thinking about myself when I got behind the wheel. I don’t want to be another picture on the wall and leave everyone wandering what I could’ve been in life. In all, the program was an eye opening experience and it’s one that I recommend people should take seriously. I for one don’t want my loved ones to ever have to go through what the survivors are having to go through. Again thank you to Steve, his love and compassion towards everyone in the room was second to none. Not at one point did I think I was being punished for my actions. He made it clear that we made a mistake, but I never felt like he was singling any one out. Thank you to the survivors for coming in. Thank you for being the voice that I so needed to hear. It takes a person of courage and strength to be able to do what the survivors are doing. They didn’t want to be in that room, but I can’t thank them enough for being the voice that so many needed to hear. TR
——————–
October 18, 2025 – This morning I learned about the immediate and long lasting impact on victim families. These families have to live with some one else’s actions for a life time. The graphic photos and videos had a huge impact on me as I pictured my own deceased family member during this time. The facilitator was very impactful with his words as well. JL
——————–
October 18, 2025 – Definitely an eye-opener. I knew I messed up when I first got arrested that night for operating while intoxicated but going through this impact panel really does show the effects. Your actions can cause someone else’s family or close ones. CB
——————–
October 18, 2025 – That made me feel very upset and sad after watching several videos this morning people dying. Driving under influence is very bad and can affecting other people lives. It can be someone in the family but it also can be anyone outside on the street. I learned today that you should never drive after using alcohol or any other substance!!! IL
——————–
October 18, 2025 – The videos and speakers of this panel, left an impression on myself that truly was impactful, to see the pain & hurt caused by a poor decision. Truly a life altering presentation. TB
——————–
October 18, 2025 – It was a real eye opening experience from the video to the speakers it makes you think about your actions and how everyday people can be hurt. CF
——————–
September 24, 2025 – Truly a devastating and heartbreaking presentation.. The sorrow I felt and still feel knowing that people lose their lives from someone who is impaired will linger and stay with me for as long as I’m breathing. My heart and prayers go out to anyone who has lost their life or loved ones from a DUI related incident. This presentation was well done and motivated me to continue staying focused and sober moving forward. Something like driving impaired has life changing or even fatal consequences. So stay safe and make the proper choices. No innocent person should suffer because of a poor choice we make. DL
——————–
September 24, 2025 – I met (victim) Bryce King’s mother (survivor) at a Survivor Speakout in July. Seeing the footage again was just as painful as the first. It was not the gore that gets in my head and I am a person that does not handle gore well. It was always the 911 death notification video that goes through my head. I think showing how it affects loved ones impacted me more. BH
——————–
September 24, 2025 – This really did a great job at showing me that the thing I thought so carelessly about can change someone else’s life for ever and cause such great pain and trauma. Survivor Speakout has opened my eyes so much about how impaired driving can change some else’s life for ever and I never want to be the person that causes such great pain. ZM
——————–
September 24, 2025 – I understand the effects and repercussions that come with impaired driving on a new level. Not just for the impaired driver but for other drivers on the road who could become potential victims. Impaired driving accidents that kill are not just crashes but they are murder, as the driver is aware that they are impaired and with that are knowingly putting lives at stake. BF
——————–
September 24, 2025 – Thank you for the presentation. It was very insightful and I do not want to put anyone through what those families went through. I also like the fact that you were honest about your experiences with driving intoxicated in your past. KC
——————–
August 28, 2025 – The day I was arrested I felt a huge disappointment to see how having made the irresponsible decision to drive under the influence of alcohol could dig into the life of an innocent person, it affected me a lot to see that he can do enormous damage to my family and other people, it was my first time being arrested and I thought a lot about my children and how I wanted to get out of jail and have the opportunity to amend that responsible act. KR
——————–
August 28, 2025 – I took this class for my second DUI and it definitely hit me. I unfortunately didn’t learn my lesson after my first one and went on to make the same mistakes repeatedly until I was inevitably caught again. I can proudly say that since my second arrest, I have taken sobriety, therapy, recovery, and healing very seriously. While the content of this class can be very unpleasant, it was imperative for me to witness it all as it leaves a very profound impact and helps me further my choices that I will absolutely not make the same mistakes again. I don’t want to become a statistic. AP
——————–
August 16, 2025 – The presentation most definitely stuck with me …lots of visuals to get you thinking…my personal testimony is that I got this OWI on July 2nd of 2022 …I have managed to stay sober since then..I recently collected my 3 year token about a month ago…in all honesty I should have figured this out decades ago …this was actually my fifth OWI I have had ….i figured out that don’t drink and drive actually did not work for me the whole don’t drink period way is working much better …life does actually get better ….i stay super active in the Hendricks county AA community …I do appreciate your presentation kinda hits pretty hard and gets a person to thinking for sure …basically just another positive reinforcement to help me along this journey …thanks again, Steve! JM
——————–
August 16, 2025 – I was extremely moved with the photos I saw Saturday morning of how these folks lost their lives in an extremely horrific accident. I will admit I got misty eyed during showing of the photos. The gentleman who lost his parents in the wreck from the dump truck was as strong as titanium. The photos from the wreck were very hard to look at, they were the same age as my parents. 80 and 81. I hope everyone will learn from seeing the carnage that happened in the photos. The one video that hit me hard was of Bryce King’s mom screaming and crying not believing that he was gone, so if you don’t want your mom to go through that pain of losing her only child, then give your keys to someone before you drink or better yet when you get to the place you drink at. God bless everyone that unfortunately has to view this someday, but please learn from it. RV
——————–
August 16, 2025 – Very pleased with the impact panel. I think it is beneficial to spread awareness on a personal level like Steve did. Showing the harsh reality of poor decision making skills “should” result in better life choices. A reality check everyone should have. My opinion, this panel should take place in the local schools as a deterrent. AM
——————–
August 16, 2025 – I’m much grateful today with the man that spoke to us today and I really appreciate it. This program made me cry a lot and I have learned a lot from it. Thank you once again Steve. I really appreciate your help. God bless you. CB
——————–
August 16, 2025 – This class taught me so much more than what I thought it was going to. It really made me think about my actions. Steve did a very great job as well was the other speakers. It was very impactful to me. It makes me sick to think that I had gotten behind the wheel while intoxicated, and what it could have lead to, thank you Steve. WW
——————–
August 12, 2025 – I was not expecting the experience I had today during the Survivor Speakout class. I literally was in tears to see the pain out loved ones go through when an irresponsible driver takes one of their loved ones life. I made me realize how dangerous driving under the influence can be and I don’t ever want to be the cause of a anyone’s death. This class had photos that touch me and I cant stop thinking about them, my respect to their memories and please don’t drive under the influence, it’s devastating what happens when we are irresponsible. YG
——————–
August 12, 2025 – I want to begin by saying how grateful I am for the man that taught this class today. He is truly doing the Lord’s work for our community. As far as the class itself, I struggle to convey the absolute horror and grief I feel for those who have lost their lives and for their families. While it was truly a disturbing thing to learn about, it feels unimaginably more horrifying to think of the turmoil my actions could have caused. I grieve for the lives lost and for their families, and I feel absolutely remorseful that I chose to get in a vehicle after having alcohol. To drive impaired is truly a disrespect to these innocent souls, and for that I will remain forever remorseful. I’m sure it doesn’t often cross the mind of an impaired driver that such horrific tragedies can be caused by their actions, but it should. This class has permanently changed me as an individual and for that I am more than grateful. I recommend this class to anyone struggling with poor decision making surrounding drugs and alcohol whether they’ve been “caught” or not. Thank you for opening my eyes. SK
——————–
August 12, 2025 – I knew this was going to be hard to watch and go through having known one of the victims personally. It definitely was, but worth going through and learning other people stories. The guy running it was very nice and understanding and not judgmental at all. Which is nice because ever since i was arrested i have felt like a giant pos. It is nice to know there are others out there with similar stories and having gone through it, they can help and guide you and be there for you as well.DC
——————–
August 12, 2025 – The class was much more graphic than I had anticipated going into it. Made me really think about my actions and how they not only affect my life but that of others. It was a very good session that had me thinking a lot about my choices going forward. JD
——————–
July 31, 2025 – The class was a very powerful class. seeing someone that I of knew definitely was a hard thing to watch. the class was very eye opening to a lot of the things most people look past and don’t think about when they’re impaired.KG
——————–
July 31, 2025 – I am absolutely appalled at what I just witnessed. I never took the time to understand how something so avoidable can completely change so many peoples lives. Mothers, fathers, children, friends and neighbors alike. I would definitely recommend anyone who drinks or uses drugs at all take the impact panel. I was absolutely sick to my stomach, full of remorse but also very thankful I didn’t destroy anyone’s life or ruin my own when I decided to break the law. QB
——————–
July 31, 2025 – The class really hit hard, I wasn’t totally prepared to see and feel the pain of others. My outlook has totally changed and I’m gracious that my bad decision making did not end up like the stories I just saw. Steve did a great job and I’m glad I attended the class. RF
——————–
July 8, 2025 – Very powerful class. Definitely will make me think twice about doing anything that could have a harmful outcome on my life or others. KT
———————
July 8, 2025 – Incredibly impactful session. Thank you Steve for all you do in putting this together, including sharing your own experience. MC
———————
July 8, 2025 – Being part of the Survivor Victim Impact Panel has been one of the most emotional and impactful experiences of my life. Sharing my story about a loved one who was a victim of a drunk driver has prompted me to reflect on my actions and decisions from the night I was arrested. Steve’s presentation not only shared a powerful story for all eight victims, but it also provided a stark reality check: a killer can look just like me, and my conscious decisions could lead to irreparable consequences. MR
———————
July 8, 2025 – I had a hard time sleeping. Not because of what I saw but what I felt about the sadness from the deaths. I can’t say I enjoyed the meeting, but it did make me feel different about how people will still drive and drink. I personally haven’t drank for a couple years now and don’t intend to. I have had so much death in my life and my life is way different because of it. I don’t take chances driving since I was a kid with alcohol. I can’t imagine being a driver and killing somebody from a mistake like that. It definitely left an impression on me and much sadness of picturing the young people and the older couple and their families. I know what devastation feels like. RP
——————–
June 24, 2025 – It was very hard, impactful, and regretful to have put myself in a position to have had to watch what each of these victims and their families had to go through, because of someone making the mistake that I made. It was very emotional having to see each of their stories, but it hit me very hard seeing someone I knew personally. I am a mother, and watching Bryce’s mother’s reaction to the devastating news of her son, was gut wrenching. I have been through my own heartbreaking experiences due to alcohol, aside from vehicles, so the remorse I have for choosing to get behind the wheel, is something I will never do again. I hope this program is taken as serious to others as I took from it and each one of us never make the mistake again, that could have led to the worst kind of outcome. BN
——————–
June 24, 2025 – Going into the (Zoom) call I did not know what to expect or how it was going to affect me. I honestly did not think it was going to do anything for me, then after seeing the innocent people and the way they looked that was very hard to watch. I’ve never seen the other side of what can happen. I’ve always just gotten away scratch free, but those poor people did not. It was so sad to see how someone being so selfish took their lives from them. The death notification was especially hard to watch; that poor mother and her son who did nothing wrong. I think I’m going to be seeing those images in my head a lot. I’ve had a few close calls where I could have done that to someone, but since no one got hurt I didn’t think anything of it but after seeing how it could have ended up it was really helpful. Also, for me to think about if I’m drinking what can happen. and to be able to look back at times when I could have been the killer. The overall experience of the class was very impactful. I would never want to have to be that person. Survivor Speakout helped me to realize how selfish I’ve been. IC
——————–
June 24, 2025 – The information provided was very graphic and eye-opening. For me, it was a wake-up call because it showed that one stupid decision can lead to life-threatening consequences. You not only have to think about the harm that you can cause yourself, but you also have to think about the harm that you can cause innocent people who had nothing to do with the choice you made to drive impaired. This is something that will stick with me, and hopefully others who experienced it, because anyone, on any given day, can become a killer—even if that wasn’t who you were the morning you woke up and left your house. It was a choice you made, and a choice you can’t take back. So remember, before you take a drink and get behind the wheel, that it’s not worth your life or anyone else’s. AH
——————–
June 24, 2025 – I loved and hated the program. I say this because I found it incredibly educational and I believe EVERY DRIVER should required to attend something like this before getting a license! In fact, every so often as well (since memories tend to fade over time). Learning about victims within the county, on roads I know, really brings it to my heart. The shared grievous reactions and gruesome real life photos are things that can’t be quickly forgotten! They made me feel sick to my stomach for many reasons that were necessary and vital. Very impactful! NB
——————–
June 21, 2025 – Survivor Speak out impacted me in a way I didn’t expect. The raw feelings invoked not only by the speaker but from the presentation itself was not only impactful but dare I say life changing. It puts into perspective the decision we make and the way it impacts life around us, CS
——————–
June 21, 2025 – The program was just as powerful as the survivor title by the way it makes you understand the impact that driving with too much alcohol or drug in your system and what you as a driver very well can be the cause of the significant property damages and horrible injuries and even death to not only one but multiple people in a single vehicle or multiple vehicles. Multiple people as well as major physical damages to other property even beyond the vehicle(s) involved in the horrific collisions. It opens your eyes to the impact on family members not in the accident, close friends and witnesses. JP
——————–
June 21, 2025 – Thank you to Steve, he is a very good at what he does. He sets the tone in the room. And makes you reflect on your mistake. EB
——————–
June 21, 2025 – Attending Survivor Speakout was one of the most emotional and eye opening experiences. Hearing the stories of families forever changed by drunk driving made me feel deeply saddened and ashamed. I realized how a single choice, one I made without fully thinking, could have led to devastating consequences, just like the ones I heard about. I carry a lot of disappointment in myself for putting others at risk, and this event made it clear that no excuse could ever justify that decision. The pain these families live with is unimaginable, and I never want to be the reason someone else feels that kind of loss. This experience has changed me. It was not just educational, it was life altering. Alcohol will no longer be a part of my life. I want to be someone who makes better choices, who honors the lives impacted, and who never forgets the powerful stories I heard today. NH
——————–
June 21, 2025 – The information provided was sad but a real look at what can happen if I make dumb decisions. I know for me it had an impact and I pledge that I will not drink and drive at all moving forward. This whole process has taught me a painful lesson while still lucky that I wasn’t on your slideshow. I feel for all of those families and the many more that will be affected by this in the future. TK
——————–
June 21, 2025 – Steve is a very moving and passionate speaker. The clips and video really show the devastation that can happen. It’s graphic, emotional and sincerely makes you think about ever driving impaired. CH
——————–
June 21, 2025 – This session was one of the few times that none of the survivors were able to attend. While I’m sure that would have made a dramatic presentation even more impactful, it would not have been easy to sit in front of them and admit to the same selfishness and poor judgement of those that killed their loved ones. Steve’s inclusion of victims that he knew personally, as well as his admission of being guilty of our own poor judgement earlier in life, really hit home. While my offense certainly wasn’t the first time I have done this, it will most assuredly be the last. This was a life changing event. I wish that my actions had not made it necessary for me to attend, but I’m glad I did, and I pledge to never be so thoughtless and selfish again. GS
——————–
June 11, 2025 – Attending my first (AND ONLY) Survivor Speakout Victim Impact Panel had a very profound effect on me. It was heartbreaking to see and hear the devastation that driving impaired causes. I have not had a drink since my arrest over four months ago and after seeing this presentation it gives me even more reason to maintain my sobriety. The presentation was graphic and unpleasant to watch at times, but necessary to make its point and insure that we understand the risk and devastating consequences that are possible when we drive impaired. The host “Steve” did an excellent job of not only explaining and delivering the information, but also treating us as equals who have all made poor choices in the past. MM
——————–
June 11, 2025 – This panel was very educational and really made me more aware to the true impact of what could happen when you make the mistake of drinking and driving. i pray the victims rest in peace and their families can somehow recover from the loss of their loved one or loved ones. it was really sad seeing what happened to the victims and knowing that i made a mistake that could have potentially caused something like that to happen. i am glad i have been blessed with the ability to be sober for almost a year now give or take a few weeks. SG
——————–
May 24, 2025 – I can honestly say I’ve never seen what I experienced in that class, something that moves you so much, gives you the chills I had or makes you wanna rethink getting behind a wheel ever. Since the day I left I drive with little to no music, the presentation I saw stays on my mind every time I’m behind the wheel, I don’t even want to text in drive. When I came into class the guy said if you think what your dealing with is an inconvenience I’m going to show you one today and I’m like what could it be, it was nothing I expected but it was more than enough to change the perspective and mindset on anyone who would drink and drive or ever to think their okay driving after a drink or even driving while your sober. It’s made a huge impact on my driving period it makes me wanna stay at home. I am very appreciative of the class and would love to recommend people who haven’t even been charged with DUIs. Thankyou for your presentation and the time I have had with you.
——————–
May 24, 2025 – This class had a huge impact on me it made me understand what could happen if you drive while intoxicated I’m glad I had to attend the instructor really made you understand he was great I know for sure that this panel saves lives. PL
——————–
May 24, 2025 – (Survivor Speakout) hit me hard. I shed some tears (and am) grateful to not have hurt anyone. (Survivor Speakout) strengthened my sobriety of three years. I now realize I was a potential killer when driving (impaired).
——————–
May 24, 2025 – As this will be my second OWI, I was familiar with another meeting. Steve and hearing the stories and footage of the family’s affected me, I believe his program is designed to truly make a change in a person’s life. Enhanced the risk that are taken by driving impaired, it was a blessing to (witness) the program. We all can make the change. SURVIVOR SPEAKOUT is a true eye opener you put everyone at risk and that is not the legacy I want to be remembered by.
——————–
May 24, 2025 – First and foremost thank you for everything you do for our community, and secondly thank you for coming in on a Saturday to offer your time to making me a better person. I have been a part of the recovery community since 2015 and had a relapse in 2023 causing me to make numerous terrible decisions that led to a couple arrests to end the year. Since then I have started to work in the substance abuse field and am a community health worker at the Progress House in Indianapolis and I only hope to make a fraction of the impact you made on me today. Thanks again. JB
——————–
May 24, 2025 – I wish there was a way to show this presentation to every driver. It was very impactful- hearing the stories, seeing the faces of the victims, knowing I probably know someone that knows these families, the reality of knowing I could have done this and changed someone’s life forever… I do not want to be part of the problem or the reason another person suffers. I want to help raise more awareness and educate anyone I can. Thank you so much Steve for all that you do! CT
——————–
May 22, 2025 – Attending the Survival Speak Out for drunk driving victims was one of the most powerful and emotional experiences I’ve ever had. Hearing the firsthand stories of those who have survived such devastating circumstances — and of the families who’ve lost loved ones — truly opened my eyes to the harsh realities behind every statistic. It’s one thing to know drunk driving is dangerous; it’s another to see this bright young and vibrant faces be taken away from those whose lives have been forever changed by a single reckless decision. Their courage in sharing their pain, their recovery, and their ongoing fight for awareness and justice left a lasting impact on me. This event wasn’t just a memorial or a call for accountability — it was a call to action. I walked away more committed than ever to making responsible choices and speaking out against drunk driving in my community. If even one person makes a better choice because of what I learned here, then the stories I heard weren’t in vain. I’m incredibly grateful to the organizers and every survivor who bravely shared their story. You’re saving lives. CN
——————–
May 22, 2025 – Let me tell you something, I wasn’t prepare for what I saw, it’s very real, hurtful and scary that me or other people could end like any of those innocent people just because of my bad choices. I felt nothing but sick that we take somebody son, daughter, wife, grandmother/father just because of our lack of empathy. Absolutely never thought about the consequences of being an impaired driver, more than just jail, and all the money spent. Although I felt nauseas, those pictures, and videos bring me to realize the importance of be a responsible driver, for me and all the people around, not just my family! but somebody else’s family. FL
——————–
May 22, 2025 – The class was eye opening and hard to watch as it should be. The instructor was a good guy and he was clear with the intentions of the class. MW
——————–
May 22, 2025 – I feel as this impact panel really hit my heart where it needed, I have been so blessed to be able to be where I am today, seeing all the victims on here today really was shocking and I pray for all those family members who are struggling with a loss from someone who has been behind the wheel drinking. I appreciate all that I was able to hear and see today as it really impacted me for the better, thank you. JH
——————–
May 6, 2025 – This Victim Impact Panel will cut you like a knife. It has put the consequences of my decisions further into perspective and made an impact that I will carry with me for the rest of my life. We have a one month old at home and it just makes me so sick knowing that I could have been the reason someone had to lose a newborn. It’s an intense thought but it’s the truth and this panel will make you realize that it could have been you. Thankfully for those of us who have the opportunity to go through this program, we were stopped and arrested. Saving others on the road but also saving ourselves. Survivor Speakout does not hold back and you WILL leave changed with an intense understanding of what you could have done. Hearing the stories of these victims and seeing how it affect their families is gut wrenching. It could have taken was one more stop sign, red light, or curve in the road and any one of us could have been the end of someone’s life and their families. Every time I get in my truck I will think about this panel and it will change how I drive. These stories will also make you very conscious of those around you and give you the courage to speak up to someone who may be considering drinking then driving. It goes without saying that if you have to go through this program, these stories and victims will stick to you and will serve as a reminder to not, if ever you get the urge to drink and drive again. CN
——————–
May 6, 2025 – The class was very educational and emotional. I feel so bad for these families. They lost a precious person. I can’t even imagine and I don’t want to. I am no longer driving (impaired) ever again and I’m ok with that. I can’t imagine being the driver that kills someone or I die. Thank you for this education it has opened up my eyes. AG
——————–
April 22, 2025 – Survivor Speakout was very important and it had a huge impact on me hearing other people share their own experience it empowered me to raise awareness about the issue and honestly understand that driving while impaired is very selfish because it can have negative impact on innocent lives. FR
——————–
April 22, 2025 – I participated in the Survivor Speakout. Because of my OWI, I was court-ordered to attend as part of my probation. Like most people in my situation, I didn’t look forward to it, but it had to be completed. What I wasn’t prepared for was how deeply it would affect me. Hearing the stories of victims and their families hit me hard. These images will forever be stuck in my mind. Listening to these stories is gut wrenching. These weren’t just stories, they were real people who happen to be very close to home. It made me realize how lucky I am. Grateful, honestly. Grateful that my situation didn’t end as tragically as theirs. I was given a second chance. A wake-up call-before I ruined someone else’s life, or my own. That’s a blessing I don’t take lightly anymore. Survivor Speakout was more than a requirement. It was a reality check. And I truly believe it’s changed the way I see the responsibility we all carry when we get behind the wheel. MJ
——————–
April 22, 2025 – The video was extremely inspirational and very eye opening. I am very inspired by the speaker (Steve) and very grateful for everything that was shown to me. Again I would like to say thank you for the presentation and thank you for the eye opening experience. TW
——————–
April 22, 2025 – I’ve never been to such a class that has really made me rethink a lot of the decisions I have made through out my life, it made me very conflicted in the choices I have made over the last 3 yrs since I first got in legal trouble and arrested, I’m very thankful I didn’t harm anyone when I got arrested but also made me realize there are better decisions to be made then drinking and driving or using any sort of drug. KB
——————–
April 22, 2025 – Thank you, Mr. Steve Pyatte, for exposing the cold, hard truth about the potential consequences of inappropriate, misguided, and most often unlawful decisions. Driving under the influence of drugs and/ or alcohol is a deadly risk, as witnessed in REAL LIFE by your graphic and necessarily shocking presentation. It can’t help but leave an offender like me with a new realization of my poor past judgment and the justified reason for my current punishment. The impact of tonight’s Survivor Speakout will certainly stay with the conscientious participants for LIFE. Your unassuming and honest approach lends well to this difficult material. FA
——————–
April 22, 2025 – I was just in your class just wanted to tell you it was a sensational class and really impact me a lot when I saw the mother crying all I could think of was when my mother and I got news of my brother passing from a drunk driver made me cry a little thank you again it really did make in impact on my life. GH
——————–
April 12, 2025 – The program is so impacting. Having attended the Survivor Speakout, I feel so remorse especially, watching parents who had lost their children in the hands of drunk drivers who chose to make a wrong decision by driving under the influence of alcohol / drugs. I don’t and will never be like such drivers. I feel to bad and blame myself for drinking and drive. I will NEVER do it again for the rest of my life. It’s a very bad decision. Everyone’s life is important. I don’t want to hurt myself nor anybody. I appreciate the privilege to attend the program and hold myself accountable. The program has made a real positive impact to me and I’ll never drink alcohol again, talk-less of driving under any influence. It’s my responsibility to operate vehicle sober. And I’ll never allow any form of distraction while operating a vehicle again. HO
——————–
April 12, 2025 – (Survivor Speakout) was very intense and eye opening. I knew what I did was wrong but this really just nailed it home how many lives can be impacted by a selfish irresponsible choice one person can make. A high or buzz lasts momentarily but the impact you cause on another family while under the influence lasts a lifetime. I know for myself personally I will never drive buzzed or drunk ever again , one of the speakers was a parent of a girl that passed at my high school I attended as well so it was very personal for me and I just felt really ashamed to be on the side of things I was, but I also feel like it was meant to be I felt like God was saving me from doing it in the future by me being in attendance for the Survivor Speakout. I wish everyone the best and I pray for peace and healing for the victims. Thank you for the eye opening experience and I won’t let you down by doing this ever again. AB
——————–
April 12, 2025 – Every choice I made during the night of my arrest was extremely intentional from the time I was sober up until the time I wasn’t & decided to drive home as if I wouldn’t have been caught. I knew it was wrong & even though myself or anyone else was hurt, I knew I could have put myself in a position to do so. I truly am glad this class was mandatory because even though I know things like this can happen, me seeing the outcome impacted my choices that I’ll make in the future. I advocate for anyone around me & others to never drink & drive whether they’ve had 1 beer or 3 shots. You’re honestly never prepared for what happens next or the outcome from the moment on. MC
——————–
April 12, 2025 – I wanted to write this as soon as I got home so everything would be fresh in my mind. It’s the most impactful class I’ve ever been to in my life, the words the images the stories from the parents that lost their children was devastating, heartbreaking and a real eye opener. Getting arrested going through the court dates, fees, probation, everything did impact my life and I learned my lesson but this class really set home what devastating consequences I could have brought not only to my life but more importantly to innocent bystanders lives. You don’t realize fully how much you could ruin someone’s life by drinking and driving You hear about it you see it but you don’t understand it fully until you hear the stories from parents until you see those pictures of those poor people that were just going about their daily lives and had it ruined by poor choices that I or anyone else driving drunk made. I wish everyone in the world could see and hear these people speak because it would change a lot of people and their ways of thinking about drinking and driving. You can’t just drink a beer and drive or have a shot and drive or think that you’re going to be okay because any amount of alcohol or drugs is too much. I’m thankful that I don’t have to live with a guilt of harming somebody when I easily could have. I could go on and on about how this class really opened my eyes, but I can’t articulate in words fully to make anyone understand how much this has changed my thinking. I appreciate the people that came to speak (Anita Tate)(Dawn and David Vasquez) and Steve for really putting on a good presentation. I hope that this class impacts everyone like it did me! SK
——————–
April 12, 2025 – Very moving and gave great scenarios and showed the consequences of making errors in judgments and how those can be more impactful and permanent for others based on bad decisions that changed someone’s life forever. It was great to see parents (Anita Tate)(Dawn and David Vasquez) and loved ones of people who lost their lives made by one bad judgement and really makes you think if drinking and driving or being under the influence is worth whatever reason to get behind a wheel. JB
——————–
April 12, 2025 – In my opinion ( Steve ) did a great job with the class. I’m sorry for myself for what I did, and have learned from it and scared at the same time. Seeing innocent people dying because of someone like us. The families (Anita Tate)(Dawn and David Vasquez) that spoke at the victim impact panel today and videos,/photos of the (crashes) really opened my eyes. Thank you for the work you put into the program. Also. thank you for being honest about your past and letting us all know that the choices we make can change our lives and others. ES
——————–
April 3, 2025 – The class is very informative and the instructor (Steve) is very well spoken and he seems like he truly cares. (T)he videos are graphic and will scar your mind, but I believe in a good way. After attending this class and seeing the horror that is the the victims of impaired drivers, I don’t think anybody could ever with a clean conscience risk drinking and driving again. I truly appreciate the instructor (Steve) in his genuine caring for the people in this class, I have learned a lot (and) vow to never drive impaired again. JV
——————–
April 3, 2025 – After attending this class it has really opened my eyes to the damage I could have caused to so many people by driving impaired. one of the hardest parts for me was when the officer informed Bryce’s mom he had passed and hearing and seeing her reaction bc I never really thought of things in that light. I can say for 100% certain that I will not be driving under the influence ever again bc I would never want to be the reason someone’s loved ones got that information bc I made the decision to drive impaired. thank you Steve for putting on this class bc you are saving lives and now mine is one of them. DC
——————–
April 3, 2025 – This presentation wasn’t something I was expecting. I haven’t seen many accidents so up close and horrendous. It is heartbreaking and devastating. As someone who has spent most of my twenties in prison already I have been around many murderers, some intentional, some not. Women who have killed their children or someone else’s, old ladies who accidentally killed people while drunk driving and so many more. They all look like normal people, sometimes so sweet and innocent seeming that you would never guess how violent the crime or even expect them to be involved in a tragedy. I appreciate the talk and the presentation in both. I don’t think they would have the same impact without Steve’s insight and wisdom and also the narrative as it would just seeing pictures or a video. My son is also 13 and going through a bit of things in life that’s telling him to slow down and causing us to be more aware of his actions and communications and also wanting to cut back on certain freedoms. As I am not the custodial parent it kills me everyday that I do not always know everything and this just breaks my heart. I am remorseful for all the times I have driven impaired and the danger that I could have caused anyone. Honestly, I knew for weeks that something bad could happen any time I was behind the wheel even if I had just smoked some weed that it would be my fault. I appreciate the time here, this leaves me with a lot to think about and even to maybe share someday. SC
——————–
April 3, 2025 – When I signed up to attend this panel, I had no idea what I was in for. It hurt me deeply to see those victims in such dismay from the carelessness of others. It was truly eye opening how a few drinks too many can permanently damage another family. Nobody wins in this case and Steve was a very gracious host. TT
——————–
March 15, 2025 – The class had a massive impact on me. It showed me that carelessness or bad judgement doesn’t just affect us but everyone on the road. Driving a vehicle is very dangerous unless we are focused and coherent. I am so grateful that I only got in trouble and didn’t hurt anyone. I am full of regret that I made a mistake, but that would have made it so much worse. I am dedicated to never making this mistake again. I will also try to help others from not driving when impaired. I knew all of this before but the class made it sink in. I want to say thank you to the gentleman who ran the class and the survivor who sat through the story, pictures and videos so she could speak to us. It showed me how much she loved her son to change other’s mind and make a difference. I believe that more people should have this experience not just people that have gotten in trouble. Thank You. JD
——————–
March 15, 2025 – This was extremely eye opening. I am so very sorry for anybody who has had to deal with this kind of thing. To the friends and family of the victims of impaired driving/drivers I mourn your losses and hope you found or can find peace. I see how irresponsible and idiotic it is to do what all of us have done (and) not thinking about the consequences that we or others may face. I pray everyone here tonight, in the past, or in the future, including myself, never forgets what was said and shown so that we can easily make that choice to never put ourselves or others in danger on the road again. We owe it to each other. I was definitely impacted tonight and I am sorry for those who were forced to be impacted immensely more than us, by people like us. BD
——————–
March 15, 2025 – I just took the victim impact course and it was really graphic and to be honest that’s what I needed. I’ve been in trouble with drinking my entire life and I’ve never been shown what could happen due to my irresponsible behavior while drinking and driving. After what I saw tonight I don’t even want to think about alcohol or even taking another sip due to what could potentially happen to me or others. Thank you very much Steve for opening my eyes. JM
——————–
March 15, 2025 – The victim impact panel really changed my perspective on things. I wasn’t expecting to see and hear the things I did, but I am glad that I did. I’m grateful I was given this opportunity to hear from those who were impacted and I will use this program to shape my understanding and be aware more aware in the future what I could cause if I made another mistake like this. Thank you. KR
——————–
March 15, 2025 – It is tragic what happens to innocent people from people drinking alcohol or being under the influence. I thought it was very interesting and sad at the same time. It was very sad hearing about the mother (Amanda King) understanding her son has been killed. It impacted my view on alcohol significantly, and helped me understand more about being behind the wheel and under the influence. It made me reflect on my choices (of my) past and put myself in their shoes. I wouldn’t ever want to lose any family member or loved one, especially getting killed by a driver under the influence. TH
——————–
March 15, 2025 – First I want to say I was not expecting to see what I saw. It was horrific, heart-wrenching, disturbing, and devastating to watch. My heart goes out to anyone affected by a lose such as this. As a mother, the notification gripped my heart I can’t imagine and don’t ever want to know how that mother or any parent felt or feels having to go through that. I never thought about how simple decisions such as drinking and driving could end up like this, not for me at least. However, I am no different than those who were the killers in these videos. I am so disappointed in myself still but very appreciative that I was not and am not the cause of someone else’s worst day or that of my family and friends. Seeing all these young innocent children’s lives cut short (and) them being taken away from their parent’s, friends, children (and) all their loved ones really opened my eyes. I have not lost a family member to a violent death and pray I never will. This is going to stick with me forever and I vow to not…get behind the wheel impaired. It’s a choice that I have control over. KF
——————–
March 15, 2025 – I wasn’t expecting what I saw (at Survivor Speakout). I have two girls and have not been in trouble since I’ve had them. I went through a divorce and my parents watched them the night I got my OWI. I kept thinking I didn’t endanger anyone because it was just me in the car. Seeing these videos and the victims made me cry thinking about what I could have done and left my daughters without their mother or hit someone else and taken their life. Seeing these made me cry thinking about how much I need to change in my life. I’ve always thought a few drinks is okay. It’s not when I got behind the wheel and could have killed myself or someone else. This class truly touched me and made me think so much different about what I did. I know this was court ordered but I really thank you for doing this for everyone especially me. I needed to see it and think differently about my actions. JL
——————–
March 15, 2025 – I attended Survivor Speakout online and it was an eye opening experience. I wasn’t exactly sure what it was going to be about, but I feel it made an impact on me personally. I really appreciate what Steve is doing to help others. JM
——————–
March 15, 2025 – When I registered for this panel, I expected to hear from victims of OWI, DUI, and similar accidents. I did not expect to feel so impacted by the material and stories presented. We watched and witnessed stories of individuals that were killed and severely injured by people like myself. I did not expect to feel so guilty for my actions and mistakes. I am lucky that it was not me who killed someone and lucky I did not harm myself. I am thankful for the stories told and for the actions that I will no longer take. KM
——————–
March 15, 2025 – Having recently attended the 3/15/2025 session of the Survivor Speakout Victim Impact Panel, I would like to thank you for providing this powerful and informative program. I have seen badly wrecked cars before, but seeing the grim evidence in this presentation of the carnage that can result from car crashes made a strong impression. I appreciate your pointing out that people need to be much more cautious and attentive in driving even when sober, as inattention and carelessness result in so many crashes (and I agree in most cases they are not accidents but the result of someone making a terrible error). I had not realized that even being below the ‘legal limit’ of 0.08, a person could be charged with impaired driving causing death/injury, so thanks for mentioning that. It was very heart-wrenching to see the video of Mrs. King, right after having been informed that her son was killed. And then having her come up and speak in person right after really drove it home. WK
——————–
March 15, 2025 – This was a great panel and has had a tremendous impact on me. It was raw and the words spoke are so true and will always be on my mind every time I see someone even thinking about driving under the influence. I cant begin to imagine the way the King family must feel everyday with there loss. I’m so thankful this wasn’t the outcome in my situation of bad choices or consequences. I cant change the past but if I had seen this presentation prior this would have definitely changed my mind. You don’t realize how selfish you are and how much risk is taken until it’s to late. This was definitely an eye opening experience. I will not be driving under the influence and try to prevent others as well. JK
——————–
March 15, 2025 – I have nothing but the upmost respect for the victims who are able to come in and talk about the lives that were taken from them and even for the ones that allow for their loved ones stories to be told. Those stories have touched me so much that I myself no longer will drive under the influence and want to stand up against driving under the influence cause I couldn’t imagine losing my one of my kids or all 3 to accident from a person driving under the influence nor do I want to think about how they would feel if they lost me to the same. Especially when it all it takes is just simple minute to get a Uber or Lyft home or to the nearest hotel so from now on that’s the choice I’m going to make and hope that others that went through the program will do the same. DS
——————–
March 15, 2025 – Survivor Speakout was a little bit more than I expected. The victims, pictures, and the story behind their incidents would make me think twice about drinking and driving again. Steve speech was great, but the lady (Amanda King) that stood in front and talk about her son (Bryce King) incident and try to hold it together was something I have never seen. Seeing her up there was really touching. More than 24 hours after Survivor Speakout I still have pictures of the the victims and incidents in my head. Instead of stop drinking and driving I think I’ll stop all together. TP
——————–
March 15, 2025 – Before the class I felt like I’m jus waiting to get through probation, but after I learned it’s not what u do it’s how u do things …drinking is legal I could drink all I want but it’s handling that decision responsibly…having to think ahead in the future…not just myself but how my decisions will affect others around me …I saw the effect of what I was charged with affecting other people…one day of fun can ruin other lives forever … I don’t want that ..I don’t want that for anyone that’s close to me and that I love either ..from this day forward I will do my best to do thing as responsibly as I can. RF
——————–
March 15, 2025 – The the class I attended definitely opened my eyes to make me think twice about ever driving impaired again the visual pictures that I saw and the testimonials that I listen to hit home directly it was definitely an eye- opener for any of my future decisions. DS
——————–
March 15, 2025 – I recently attended the Survivor Speakout and it was truly an eye opening experience. The testimony given by the the mother (Amanda King) of one of the victims (Bryce King) really got to me. I never thought about how dangerous my bad decisions could be toward another person or persons. This was one of many stories that gave me a lot to think about. The class was very educational and Steve did a amazing presentation. Thank you for this learning experience. FM
——————–
March 15, 2025 – This class was definitely an eye-opener. The victim impact panel focuses on the life threatening dangers of driving impaired and the everlasting effects driving under the influence can have on people and even communities as a whole. Steve is a real one, he is direct and doesn’t sugar coat anything he talks about. I counted my blessings after I attended this panel as well as felt like kicking my own ass. Keep it up Steve! LD
——————–
March 15, 2025 – After taking the class it has made me more aware of of my decision making process as well as made me reevaluate a lot of things in life period. The class changed me for the better keep doing what ur doing. DC
——————–
March 15, 2025 – I attended the Survivor Speakout class today. I must say that it affected me and made me really think about my every day decisions and how they impact not only me but others around me. I was extremely touched by the mother (Amanda King) and grandparents who lost their loved one. There were moments during the video when I couldn’t even watch. Steve is an awesome presenter and made me aware of what I could have done to others when I was drinking. I have been sober 7 months now and will not go back to drinking again. Many thanks to those involved in this program, it definitely is an eye opener on many levels. KM
——————–
March 15, 2025 – The class I took today opened my heart to the victims that suffer from their loss of family members that died at the hands of people like me that drove while under the influence. I was lucky to not have killed anyone and grateful my Heavenly Father protected the others on the road those night I drove under the influence. Thanks to all that was involved in the class the lady Amanda who shared her horrific story about her son Bryce. It touched me to the core and will be forever grateful for her sharing her story. I wish her the best and I promise to be a better person and take responsibility in my life. AS
——————–
March 15, 2025 – I think this is an amazing panel. Hearing from Amanda (King) and seeing her story, I am very grateful. This panel definitely hits you where it counts, and for good reason. I think people should be willing to try this panel non court ordered. Big impact and I am very thankful for this opportunity. I have a new found perspective. TH
——————–
March 15, 2025 – The hardest part of the Impact panel was not seeing the victims of driving impaired but it was the lasting impact it had on the family of the victim. Seeing that made me think of my own mother and brother and what it would do to them if I had caused a wreck or been a victim myself. This class has been very eye opening . Steve is very good at what he does. JN
——————–
February 20, 2025 -This victim impact panel helped me realize and fully understand that not only I did wrong, but was selfish enough to put others in danger and after this class made me change my perspective and respect others more then what I already do. GS
——————–
February 20, 2025 – Before I started typing, I sat here for a few minutes thinking about everything I just watched & heard. This was very emotional and eye opening. To see such graphic images of people who lost their life and hear their stories really made me think about my life and the decisions I have made. My heart breaks for the people who lost their lives & their families. I couldn’t help but think about my children & how my poor decisions in life could have changed their lives in the blink of an eye. This victim impact panel is something that I will forever carry with me. It was very powerful. CW
——————–
February 20, 2025 – This was great class and very helpful and very educational. I am glade that I took this class. DP
——————–
February 20, 2025 – I enjoyed this presentation, it was hard to watch but definitely necessary. What go me was seeing the police officer inform the mother that her son had passed away, that resonated with me because I never sat and thought about how the consequences of my actions could affect others. Steve was a great presenter and I’ll definitely take what I learned from here to make better choices in general and think about how they can affect others. CH
——————–
February 20, 2025 – I appreciated the panel. I thought it showed a very real side of the consequences that impaired driving can lead to. BJ
——————–
February 20, 2025 – I completely understand and respect the purpose of this course, and I’m sure it’s effective in helping many people. However, as someone with severe PTSD after losing a loved one in a car accident, I found it to be extremely triggering and emotionally overwhelming. Having experienced the devastation firsthand, it was incredibly difficult for me to go through. SN
——————–
February 8, 2025 – I can’t say that I enjoyed attending the survivor speak out, but you are a great speaker/teacher. I appreciated your brutal honesty and encouragement. I left the panel with so many emotions.  As soon as I got in my car, I cried so hard and prayed to God  thanking him for protecting me and anyone else I could have hurt or killed.  I still can’t get the faces of each person out of my mind, and never will.  I am grateful for the panel as it is a true eye opener.  I felt the emotions of that poor mother in the video when the officer told her about her son. I am a mother and could not imagine going through what she did. My heart broke for her and all the families impacted by the death of their loved ones. Keep doing the great work you do. It does make a difference!! God bless you! IS
——————–
February 8, 2025 – Survivor Speakout impact panel was honestly an eye opener in many ways. Not just about the things that got me arrested, but many others things I have done in my life that could have ended badly. And I hope to never leave my daughter fatherless. It puts things into perspective, how easy it all is to lose. No amount of fun is worth losing your life. DR
——————–
February 8, 2025 – Steve did a hell of a job. Talk about an eye opener really. The way he delivered the message and told the stories it was very impactful and nice to kind of get that wake up call per se. I honestly think after yesterday that everyone regardless of being on probation or getting in trouble should have to sit though or go through the Speakout and I think it could be very impactful. TL
——————–
February 8, 2025 – I learned there’s way more important things than driving under the influence, and nothing is worth giving up everything not being able to see my daughter anymore. Great class, Steve is a great influencer, that really cares about your well-being. NH
——————–
February 8, 2025 – The survivor speak out victim impact panel really shows and teaches you what your choices can do to a person that Is innocent. That person should not have their life taken from them from the poor choices and decisions that you made because you wanted to drink or to get high and operate a vehicle. It opened my eyes to see that everything that I do can affect another person. I do not want to take someone’s life due to my choices. It taught me more than I was expecting it to, and it was a slap in the face that was needed. BP
——————–
February 8, 2025 – This program forced me to consider the potential negative outcomes of my decisions to others. BR
——————–
January 14, 2025 – The impact panel was very graphic, but I honestly believe it has the desired effect. This in conjunction with my outpatient group classes have aided in me being more aware of the dangers my choices have not only for myself but also for family members and by extension anyone who I could place in harms way because of my poor choices. Steve was a very charismatic host with great cadence and tone to give a well put together meeting. CM
——————–
January 14, 2025 – It is really an eye opener.. Many think it doesn’t happen that often or it doesn’t happen to you or people you know, but especially once you see someone you know presented in this panel, it really hits you a bit closer to home. Steve was an amazing host and it helps knowing someone who was once in your shoes just wants to help you through and realize what it could have been, and just wants you to be better. JW
——————–
January 14, 2025 – The Survivor Speakout Victim Impact Panel was much more than what I was expecting. I found it to be very educational, sad, and moving. It was an eye opener, to say the least. It really highlights the consequences of our decisions and shows how fragile our lives really are. MW
——————–
January 14, 2025 – The Survivor Speakout really opened my eyes, being young I’ve never seen these type of images. So seeing someone’s lifeless body really scared me because I could’ve been the one to cause that. I feel like this was a good lesson.
——————–
January 14, 2025 – Very insightful and really made me think about the potential consequences of my drinking, the impact it has on the victim and their loved ones. BW
——————–
January 14, 2025 – The panel was intense (understandably so), but it was really eye opening. Ever since my arrest it’s made me rethink a lot. It has changed both mine and my girlfriend’s (who was my passenger the night of) outlooks on impaired driving, just like you mentioned, it usually is never anyone’s first time when they’re arrested. I’m glad to say that we’ve been able to make a positive impact on friends and even some family out of my experience. Just wanted to say it was nice having a host who in some way was in the same shoes, and was kind and understanding but all the more helpful at the same time. JW
——————–
January 11, 2025 – It’s was very insightful and graphic, yet brought back memories of some friends that had gone through losses as well, the point of it being a conscious choice was empowering. NA
——————–
January 11, 2025 – Am so grateful to the two speakers at the survivor speak out victim panel. i must say the panel has made a lot of positive impact. i regret my actions and felt so sad and sorry for the victims. i intend to do better, this has been a great lesson. i appreciate all the families who shared their stories despite the loss of their loved ones, its has helped someone like me to amend, not to be selfish and realize the impact of my own actions whenever am on the wheel. Thank you so much, i never regret attending this panel. God bless. OO
——————–
January 11, 2025 – This has a great deal of impact on me today, as I got to see what bad choices can really do, to other people’s families, yourself, ALOT of people, it is not right, it made me view this in a whole new way after really seeing real people and different scenarios, specially one of those mothers that got informed at her job really hit me the most, I actually cried here at this impact panel today. It made me really cherish life differently all together. I will definitely refer people to coming and watching this program it’s a huge help to people out there. Thank you so much. BJ
——————–
January 11, 2025 – Just watching the effects it have on others people. To see that mother reaction to her son’s death. Even to think about the father responding to a scene and seeing it was his daughter couldn’t picture the pain he had. LB
——————–
January 11, 2025 – This was a great class and very helpful. DO
——————–
January 11, 2025 – This program pulled at my heart seeing how quickly accidents can happen and the devastating impact. I thought Steve did a fabulous job leading the class and strongly getting the point across. BM
——————–
January 11, 2025 – Watching people loose their loved ones by drunk driver is one of the worst thing that can happen to someone I can’t imagine myself in that situation those videos impacted me a lot. RK
——————–
January 11, 2025 – I feel this class serves a very important role in understanding that drinking and driving not only has consequences for the individual but can effect so many more either directly or indirectly. This class should be mandatory for those who did get arrested or known and available to people who are struggling with addiction in either form. Also I think one class is good but I feel there should be more that are mandatory and somehow expand on the issue. DM
——————–
January 11, 2025 – The SSO was a real eye opener. I am so grateful that no one was hurt from me drinking and driving. I know it could have been so much worse. Since my arrest, I have made it my personal goal to never drink again. As I think back, alcohol has ruined many family gatherings and events. Alcohol is poison. It is not good for anything. I have felt so much better since I quit and I am thinking clearer. My promise to myself and my children is to stay away from alcohol! EH
——————–
To request testimonials dating back to 2016, email us and we will reply as quickly as possible.