A Night of Remembrance and Hope: MADD Vigil at Atherton Chapel
On Thursday evening, Atherton Chapel provided a serene and welcoming venue for the annual MADD Vigil, a gathering to honor and remember those who have been injured or killed by impaired driving. Held at the start of the holiday season, the Vigil offers comfort to victims and their families, acknowledging that the weight of their loss is often felt more acutely during the holidays, a time traditionally filled with family gatherings and celebrations.
The evening began with soft melodies from Mele Magic, setting a peaceful tone as guests arrived and greeted one another. Theresa Paulette, Victim Services Specialist, extended a warm welcome to all in attendance. Reverend Sinnaduray delivered a heartfelt Invocation and Message of Hope, offering solace to those affected by impaired driving tragedies.
Major Slayter of the Honolulu Police Department spoke with compassion and commitment, emphasizing HPD’s dedication to keeping impaired drivers off the road and supporting those impacted by these preventable tragedies.
One of the most poignant moments of the evening came when Jenna Gilman shared the heartbreaking story of her only child, a 22-year-old son, TJ Nilsen, who was tragically killed by an impaired driver on March 6, 2022, in Chico, California. Jenna’s words and emotional tribute reminded everyone of the profound loss that impaired driving causes, not just to individuals, but to entire families and communities.
After Jenna spoke, the victims and their families took the stage to honor their loved ones, lighting candles and speaking their names aloud in a moving display of remembrance. The event was further graced by beautiful hulas performed by Renee Cabrinha and heartfelt mele by Bill Melemai of Mele Magic, adding to the sense of unity and healing that filled the chapel.
As the evening drew to a close, attendees left with a renewed sense of hope for a future where impaired driving no longer injures or claims lives, a future where there are no more victims.