Original Air Date:
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Guests:
Oprah welcomed Thomas Ruskin, a PI for Diane Schuler's husband Daniel; Elizabeth Spratt, the toxicologist on the case; Mike Bastardi, who lost his father, brother and friend in the accident; as well as a mother and child who lived to speak about their experiences with drunk driving.
Show Summary:
The tragic car accident in July of 2009 that killed 8, including the driver who caused the crash, has raised a number of questions in its aftermath. With toxicology reports returning with high numbers for alcohol and marijuana for Diane Schuler, many have questioned her state while driving. Oprah welcomed Daniel Schuler's PI and the toxicologist to the show to discuss the case. Also, other guests speak on their experiences with being a mother hiding alcohol problems to being in a car during a crash caused by drinking and driving.
Special Highlights:
This episode featured the following highlights:
- Daniel Schuler insists that his wife was not drinking or using drugs at all and that the toxicology reports are incorrect.
- Thomas Ruskin, a PI for Daniel Schuler shared his interview findings with Oprah supporting this claim.
- Mike Bastardi, whose father, brother and friend were killed in the crash, feels the Schuler family may be hiding details.
- Elizabeth Spratt, the toxicologist, stated the tests were clear and correct.
- Oprah asked if it is possible that Daniel Schuler is in denial about his wife's drinking and alcohol use.
- Carmen, a little girl who was injured in a crash just a few weeks ago appeared to share her experience.
- Carmen was one of seven girls riding in a car with a mother who was intoxicated. The car crashed and one girl was killed while two others were injured.
- Ellie, a wife and mother, shared how she hid her alcohol problem from her husband for years. While she said she never would, Ellie admitted to driving with her children while drunk.
- Sarah Allen Benton spoke about high-functioning alcoholics and their silent suffering while hiding their addiction from their family.
What to Take Away from the Show:
While the question of what conditions Diane Schuler was in when she was driving is still being examined, this case and the others shared can serve as a great lesson to anyone watching this episode of The Oprah Winfrey Show. The first lesson has been taught to anyone getting behind the wheel - don't drink and drive. In addition to staying out of a vehicle while intoxicated, the guests on the show also pointed out how important it is to follow your instincts. Be sure to listen to your gut if you feel you see someone who is too drunk to drive or if your children will be riding in a car with another adult.
