Episode #86 High Truths on Drugs and Addiction with Candace Lightner, the mother and founder of MADDEpisode #86 High Truths on Drugs and Addiction with Candace Lightner, the mother and founder of MADD
High Truths on Drugs and Addiction
Candy (Candace) Lightner, founder of Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) and We Save Lives is recognized nationally and internationally as the moving force behind reshaping the nation's attitude toward drunk driving (as well as drugged and distracted driving). Recognizing her years of dynamic leadership, the media voted Ms. Lightner as “one of the most influential American citizens of the twentieth century.” People Magazine called her “the Conscience of a Nation” and books have referred to her as the “Mother of Movements.” She founded MADD after her 13-year-old daughter, Cari, was killed by a multiple repeat offending drunk driver. Lightner has been credited with saving more than 400,000 lives. Armed with her anger and passion, she set out to change the system and the prevailing attitude of societal acceptance about the most often committed crime in the country. The mother turned activist not only led the movement that made drunk driving socially unacceptable, she became a leading victim’s advocate, teaching victims and survivors how to fight for justice in the courtroom. As MADD's Founding Chief Executive Officer, President and Chairman of the Board, Lightner masterminded MADD from a small California grass roots organization into an international corporation with 400+ chapters worldwide and an annual budget of more than 12 million dollars. Under her leadership, MADD’s membership base grew to more than two million
1:05:55•15 Aug 2022
Candace Lightner: A Mother's Fight Against Drunk Driving
“I think it's changing culture, but it's to put warning labels on marijuana products, including the drug drivers.”
Picture this: a mother loses her 13-year-old daughter to a drunk driver with multiple offenses. Instead of succumbing to grief, she channels her pain into a powerful movement that changes a nation. This episode of 'High Truths on Drugs and Addiction' features Candace Lightner, the founder of Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD). Hosted by Dr. Roneet Lev, the conversation dives into Lightner's incredible journey from personal tragedy to becoming a leading advocate against drunk driving, drugged driving, and distracted driving.
Candace Lightner's story is one of resilience and relentless advocacy. After her daughter Cari's tragic death, she founded MADD and transformed it from a grassroots organization into an international powerhouse with over 400 chapters. Her efforts have saved countless lives and reshaped public attitudes towards drunk driving. But Lightner isn't resting on her laurels; she believes there's still much work to be done. She discusses the need for stricter laws, greater accountability, and proactive measures to prevent substance abuse.
Lightner also addresses the current normalization of drug use and its potential dangers. She argues for better education on the harmful effects of marijuana, especially for medical professionals, and calls for warning labels on marijuana products. Her insights are not just about policy but also about changing societal attitudes and behaviors. Dr. Roneet Lev and Candace Lightner's discussion is both inspiring and eye-opening.
They tackle the complexities of addiction, the importance of victim advocacy, and the ongoing fight for safer roads. This episode isn't just a conversation; it's a call to action for anyone passionate about making a difference in their community. Tune in to hear how one mother's grief sparked a movement that continues to save lives and push for change.
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