Local couple recognized by MADD
Updated: October 9, 2012
JACKSONVILLE -- The Murphy's have spent years advocating for Mother's Against Drunk Driving and now their hard work is paying off. They just received the Golden Achievement Award.
It's been 28 years since George and Marilyn lost their daughter, Kellie. The 24-year-old was killed by a drunk driver just three blocks from home.
"Kellie was such a part of our lives, I talked to her everyday. She was my best friend. No arguments or anything," said Marilyn.
The family not only had to deal with her death, but also the long drawn out court case. One that didn't end the way they had hoped.
"My daughter got a life-sentence and this man got a seven month sentence and I didn't think it was a very fair exchange," said George.
That frustration led the couple to join MADD. They now assist families in court and advocate for the cause.
"We're going to keep working and we think we can put an end to drunk driving and it may take us a little longer than we anticipated, but I believe we can accomplish it," he said.
The Murphy's also helped get tougher penalties put in place for drunk drivers who kill someone on the road. When Kellie died, it was only three years; now, it's 14.
For more information, visit: www.MADD.org
