A Community United Against Drugs – Margot Ferron

For the past 10 years I have wanted to attend the Walk Against Drugs, but I have either had to work or volunteered at the event.   This year I was determined to walk and experience a community dedicated in the fight against drugs.

The 25th Annual Walk Against Drugs” kicked off at Mission Viejo High School on Sat. Oct. 20, 2013.  The Sheriff’s Department and City of Mission Viejo officials welcomed schools, businesses, students and families in saying "no" to drugs, alcohol and tobacco use.

Gathered in the cold, chilly morning we listened to David Wagner, a three-time, Paralympic gold medalist and the top-ranked quadriplegic tennis player in the world speak, “Drug Free, I can Be Superhuman.”  Wagner is one of 38 tennis players competing in the Wheel Chair Tennis Masters Nov. 5-11, 2013 at the Marguerite Tennis Pavilion.

My arms had goose bumps the size of Mt. Rushmore as we trekked two miles up and then down La Paz Rd.  to the Oso Creek Trail with more than 3,000 proud, energized, participants in red t-shirts.  We emerged onto the Village Green at Norman P. Murray Community Center and were greeted to a Community Fair and 6th Annual Emergency Preparedness Expo.

Rock N’ Road OC, Battle of the Bands, Battle of the Banners and much more officially jump started Orange County’s Red Ribbon Week.

Later children and adults alike raced in a furry to watch the OC Sheriff’s helicopter land on the grass.   The event was packed with crafts, a cookie walk, games, inflatables, a rock climbing wall and much more. 

Our furry pets even got in on The Rotary Club toss of 1,500 hot dogs into the hungry crowd.  

The American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life, Mission Viejo Community of Character Committee, Mission Viejo Senior Activities Committee, Boy Scouts and Oxford Prep, were just a few of the non-profit organizations that hosted informational booths and activities.