Spring Break: A True Story of Hope and Determination

by Steven Benvenisti Esq

Imagine the worst event that could ever happen to you; something so horrific that death is a welcome alternative. That's exactly what happened to Ben, an all-American college student, athlete, future homecoming king, president of the honors society, fraternity brother, all while having a great relationship with his girlfriend and family. Life could not have been better. Unfortunately, it all came to a screeching halt during his college spring break in Daytona Beach, when a drunk driver crashed into him while he was walking. As an attorney, Ben's case touched me like no other. It was so gruesome, so unthinkably devastating, that to this day I still get chills just thinking about it. Yet, all who followed this case have agreed that this story has inspired and changed them forever. And so I made a promise that if I won, I would share the story of this powerful and inspiring case with the public in the hopes of ending drunk driving and D.U.I. Spring Break is a true story of inner strength and courage, which also provides a secret so precious that it not only saves lives, it guarantees success no matter what the challenge is.

230 pages, Paperback

First published September 20, 2012

Reviews

[Cavin Balaster · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! This is the true story of Ben, a 21 year old who was struck by a drunk driver during his last spring break before graduating from college. Ben's legs were crushed by the impact while his head struck, and shattered, the windshield. Ben suffered a severe Traumatic Brain Injury. As a brain injury survivor myself, Ben's fight back is admirable. This is an inspiring tale of survival, perseverance, and excellence that demonstrates the power and importance of the presence of loved ones throughout a health crisis.

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

I heard about this book and was intrigued from the start. The horror that he went through and the stress his family had to endure was inconceivable. However, no matter what obstacle he faced, they were always by his side giving him support and strength. When you read about his injuries and recovery, you would never in a million years think that he would become the man he is today. His struggles and determination to never give up is just amazing.

[Georgiacyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

I purchased this book over a decade ago but could not bring myself to read it because I remember the story. I was a freshman in college at the school the author attended the year he had his accident. I was a bit confused when I started reading the book because it is written in the 3rd person and I knew it was autobiographical. Steve was not just a student on campus, he was “that guy,” the one everyone wanted to be or be with. His accident was devastating to the school. It was hard for me to wrap my brain around because of the only one on one interaction I had ever had with him. It was spring semester when he drove me back to campus from a party his frat was having off campus when my designated sober ride decided to drink. I thought, “How insane that this guy who makes an effort to keep people from getting in a car with a drunk driver is the one who gets hit by a drunk driver?!” I knew the accident was really bad, but did not know many details. It was amazing when he returned the following fall. Of course he was a shoe-in for homecoming king. We were all amazed by how much progress he had made. My career involves working with people with disabilities, so I have wondered how Steve recovered after school. I am so glad I finally read this book and learned that! although he went through incredibly difficult times, he persevered and made all his dreams come true! This is a very inspirational story! I was in SADD in high school and signed their “Contract for Life” back then. This book is written in YA style, so it can speak to younger folks and help drive home the importance of making that commitment. Well done!

[Hannah Dintino · Rating 5 out of 5]

This read is absolutely amazing, makes you appreciate how short life is and how amazing and miraculous it can be at the same time! A true story- and the author is such a nice guy! I’ve had so many friends read this book!

[Diane Waddington · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good book the determination of that boy was awesome. I was cheering for him all the way through the book.