Jacqueline Saburido

Jacqueline Saburido

Jacqueline Saburido was a Venezuelan woman who became a prominent figure and activist in the campaign against drunk driving after she suffered severe burns to over 60% of her body in a traffic collision in Austin, Texas, on September 19, 1999. The crash, caused by a drunk driver, killed two of her friends and left Saburido with life-altering injuries. Her story and recovery were widely covered in the media, and she used her experience to raise awareness about the consequences of drunk driving.

Early Life

Jacqueline Saburido was born on December 20, 1978, in Caracas, Venezuela. She lived in Caracas for most of her early life, where she attended school and later went on to study engineering at a local university. In 1999, Saburido decided to take a break from her studies to study English in the United States, a decision that led her to Austin, Texas.

The Accident

On the night of September 19, 1999, Saburido attended a party with friends. While returning home, the car in which she was a passenger was hit head-on by a vehicle driven by a 17-year-old high school student, Reggie Stephey, who was under the influence of alcohol. The collision instantly killed two passengers, and Saburido, who was trapped in the front passenger seat, suffered third-degree burns over 60% of her body when the car caught fire.

Recovery and Activism

Saburido underwent more than 120 surgical procedures to treat her burns and reconstruct her face, which was severely disfigured in the accident. Despite the physical and emotional pain, she chose to share her story with the world to highlight the dangers of drunk driving. Saburido appeared in numerous television interviews, was featured in print media, and participated in anti-drunk driving campaigns. Her courage and determination to prevent others from experiencing similar tragedies made her an influential figure in the fight against drunk driving.

Legacy

Jacqueline Saburido's story has had a lasting impact on the campaign against drunk driving. She has been featured in various educational campaigns, including posters, videos, and school programs, to illustrate the severe consequences of driving under the influence. Her story is a powerful reminder of the human cost of drunk driving and the importance of making responsible choices.

Death

Jacqueline Saburido passed away on April 20, 2019, after a battle with cancer. Her death was mourned by many who had been touched by her story and activism. Saburido's legacy continues to influence drunk driving awareness campaigns, and her life serves as a testament to the strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

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