Testimonials

Student Testimonials

Dear John,
I want to take the time to thank you for taking time of your personal life to share your story with us. I must say, as a new driver I am as you said, I test the limits of my car, not really because of curiosity but, as stupid as it sounds, to show off. my boyfriend lost both his parents when he was young, one in an accident in which he witnessed the death of his mother. He is my reminder every day as he gets in the car and holds my hand. He reminds me everyday to slow down and be safe for he does not want to lose the person he loves the most again. I never really thought of the full consequences of an accident to me it was either you live or you die nothing else. Thank you for the warning it has been highly helpful.  Thank you again.
O Adaes, Student

Dear John,
I really appreciate you taking the time out of your life and coming to talk to your 12th grade health class. I learned a lot from your 45 min presentation. The things that I have learned are to never get into a car with someone who has been drinking or even going to be speeding. When I seen what happen to your life and the struggles you had to go threw it has made me think more about getting into my friends cars. When I left the class room I had told my friends about your life story. Some of my friends that had seen your presentation that day had felt the same way I felt when I walked out of the classroom. I just want to say ill always think of what had happened to you that night you got into that car with your friends. Your information that you have shared with me and my classmates will change my mind about getting in the car with my friend after a long night of partying or even stand up and say something when my friends are stretching the speed limit. I would like to say thanks for taking your time out of your life and sharing your information to my health class. I recommend you come back next year and talk to the students at your school.
M  Martonak, Student

Mr. John Westhaver,
Thank you for coming, your speech had a high influence in the way I drive. because of your experience and the time you took to share it with us, I have made sure that every time I get into the car, my seatbelts on. its more important to save your own life than to look cool driving with the music blaring in your ear, making it hard for you to even think. Because of you this is my constant reminder. thank you once again for your time and hope to hear and share your story again.  Thank you
A Trapanese, Student

Client Testimonials

I was very impressed with the presentation. The sincerity and directness was very effective with a teenage audience. I would recommend to any High School that they see and hear your presentation… the message is important for young people who feel they are invincible.
Tim Stuart, Principal
Sir James Dunn Academy

John’s ability to bring his life experience into a classroom is out of the ordinary. He has a remarkable ability to communicate his experiences in a way that is both emotional and uplifting. The participants present during his presentations walk away showing both laughter and tears. I recommend that all individuals between 15-35 yr. of age listen to John’s story and learn from his experience. John’s courage and ability to captivate the audience is without doubt, impressive! Participants have told me they have changed their risk taking behaviors because of John’s sincere and bold discussion. Every community should have a person with courage like John Westhaver. Thank you John for taking your message to the community.
Wayne Senner RN, BTsN, ENC(C)
Regional Emergency/Trauma Nurse Educator
Nanaimo Regional General Hospital

This was an outstanding presentation. John was honest, enthusiastic and very dynamic. He was determined to convey his message. Our students were so impressed with his knowledge, passion and his courage. Without question, we would have John speak again.
Don Walker, Guidance Councilor
St Stephen High School

Other Testimonials

John,
I am so proud of you. Remaining to keep a positive outlook on life, and choosing to move forward to help and inspire others, despite your struggles, it’s truly amazing. That certainly was a tough year for everyone. From you and the boys accident to my brothers accident, which left him in a coma and took the life of another of our dearest friends (rest in peace Roddy),due to speed and alcohol. With raising two boys, I can only hope to instill the proper tools needed for them to grow to be safe and make good decisions. John your positive attitude and love for life just attracts people to want to be around you, I too feel blessed to know you. and am so grateful that you turned something bad into something good for the sake of our future generations. You are a true friend, the boys would be proud! :)
Patti Grant-Eldridge, Friend

I thought the presentation was awesome. My daughter being a new driver really enjoyed it also. We had a great talk after around our kitchen table. I would encourage anyone who has never seen it to go and hear it, and make sure to bring their KIDS along to hear it.
Anonymous, Parent

Fabulous. So nice to see the reaction of the audience…teenagers sitting and listening and really getting it! …everyone who is driving age, or close to it…most adults make the wrong choices when driving…they need to see this!
Mrs. Swansburg, Parent

Excellent presentation. As a teacher it is nice to know that there are people out there that will talk personally to kids about what can happen. They need to know the risks, and do believe, as you said, that it could never happen to them. It is a strong message and I hope we have you back every year to keep the message coming.
Karen Palmer, Teacher
Hartland High School

Audio Testimonials

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Interview with Joe Campbell – Seacove Secondary School

Interview With Corporal Krista – RCMP Officer

Interview With Amy Cimino – Wright Technical High School