Dear MADD Family,
It is with a heavy heart that we share that a member of our MADD family has passed away. Nina Walker, incoming MADD National President for the 2018-2020 term, died on Sunday, December 03, 2017. To say that we are shocked and heartbroken would be an understatement.
Nina joined MADD as a volunteer in October 2002 after her 22-year old daughter, Ginger, was killed in a drunk driving crash February 11, 2001. Ginger left behind a 3-year old son, Shaye, whom Nina and her husband Gary raised.
Excited to share Ginger’s story on a national stage, Nina was set to start her presidency January 1st. She was excited to take her role. In fact, last month she delivered keynotes at two events in Florida, and she was ready to do the same in her hometown of San Diego at a vigil this week.
There aren’t enough words to express how much her love and dedication to MADD will be missed. We also know that this loss will be felt most in San Diego, where she actively volunteered for the last 15 years by presenting at high schools, Victim Impact Panels and the Naval and Marine Corps bases in San Diego County. Nina also attended DUI checkpoints and supported the members of law enforcement in her community.
A long-standing advocate
As a member of MADD’s National Board of Directors from 2007 to 2015, Nina passionately raised awareness about MADD’s victim services, especially MADD’s 24/7 national Victim Help Line.
Nina served in multiple roles, including:
- Chairperson of the Victim Services Committee
- Field Relations Committee
- and a contributor to other board committees
She was committed to serving as a voice for victims and survivors of the violent and completely preventable crime of drunk or drugged driving and an advocate for the loved ones left behind.
When training in Dallas last month, Nina shared that when leaving to volunteer for MADD, Shaye tells her: “Grandma, go make a difference.” And, on this particular day, Shaye stated it once more, “Grandma, go make a difference!”
We can say that without a doubt, Nina lived up to her grandson’s words and truly made a difference in the lives of everyone privileged enough to meet her.
We remain forever grateful for Nina’s passion, commitment and hard work. Our hearts are with Nina’s loved ones, especially Gary and Shaye. We also offer our sincerest condolences to Nina and Gary’s two daughters, Dana and Natalie; their son-in-law, Mike and Gary and their grandchildren, Gary, Sasha, Porter, Jett and Jacob.
Despite the tragedy of this loss, we remain dedicated to ensuring her vision of a future of No More Victims® lives on. This was Nina’s commitment to MADD and to everyone in this country!
We will share details on Nina’s services as they become finalized by the family. Please keep Nina’s husband, Gary, and the entire family in your thoughts and prayers.