CT Lt. Governor’s Brother to Coordinate MADD Dry 5K After Surviving Drunk Driving Hit-and-Run

On November 12, 2022, John Bysiewicz, the brother of Connecticut Lt. Governor Susan Bysiewicz, was struck by a drunk driver at an impact of 70 miles per hour in Guilford, Connecticut. The collision left John severely injured, resulting in the amputation of his left leg. Since the accident, he has dedicated countless hours each week to physical therapy, working to regain his ability to walk and reclaim the independence he once had as a competitive runner, cyclist, and athlete.

As the owner of JB Sports Event Management, which organizes major walking and running events across the state, John has turned his personal tragedy into an opportunity to raise awareness about the dangers of drunk driving. He is now coordinating the MADD Dry 5K at Fairfield University’s Leslie C. Quick Jr. Recreational Complex on January 4, 2026.

“MADD and this event are incredibly close to my heart,” said Bysiewicz. “I’ve seen firsthand the irreversible damage that drunk driving can cause, and I want to do everything I can to help prevent others from going through the same thing. It’s a powerful, full-circle moment for me to be able to help raise awareness about this life-altering issue.”

The MADD Dry 5K will kick off the new year with a focus on fitness goals, while also driving home the message of No More Victims. The day will begin with packet pick-up and registration at 7:30 AM, followed by the 5K race and 2 Mile walk at 9:00 AM. Participants will receive a branded long-sleeve tech shirt as a reminder of their commitment to a healthier lifestyle and to supporting MADD’s mission. After the race, participants will enjoy grab-and-go snacks and refreshments before the 10:00 AM awards ceremony, where top finishers in various age categories will be recognized.

Bob Garguilo, Regional Executive Director of MADD New England, expressed his enthusiasm about the upcoming event.

“Mothers Against Drunk Driving Connecticut is thrilled to be working with JB Sports on this exciting event,” said Garguilo. “The MADD Dry 5K provides us with an opportunity to reach runners from across the state and beyond, as we work to save lives in hopes that one day there will be No More Victims. Impaired driving is a 100% preventable crime that kills innocent men, women, and children each day. The state of Connecticut continues to have one of the highest percentages of fatal crashes involving alcohol in the country. MADD works tirelessly with many victim survivors and families who have lost loved ones because someone made the wrong decision to drive impaired. MADD is not against the consumption, sale, or distribution of alcohol to those aged 21 and older; our fight is to prevent impaired driving on our roadways to keep all drivers safe. As we celebrate the beginning of the New Year, let our resolution be to always make a plan for safe travel should our plans include alcohol or drugs of any kind.”

For the event, John has launched a fundraising page on jbsports.com to help raise funds and spread awareness about his personal experience being hit by an impaired driver. He encourages participants to get involved by donating the amount they might typically spend on alcohol during the month of January.

Local businesses, organizations, and community members are invited to show their support through sponsorship opportunities, with all proceeds benefiting MADD Connecticut’s lifesaving programs. For more information about sponsorships, please contact Bob Garguilo at bob.garguilo@madd.org.

Drunk driving continues to be a serious issue in Connecticut and across the country. With over 100 deaths and thousands of crashes reported annually in the state alone, it’s crucial to take action to reduce impaired driving. The MADD Dry 5K offers a chance to make a difference and be part of the movement to prevent future tragedies.

Join John, MADD, and the community in the fight for health, hope, and a future of No More Victims®.

For additional information or to register for the event, visit www.jbsports.com or call JB Sports at (203) 481-5933.

This event is made possible by the generous support of sponsors including Koskoff Koskoff & Bieder PC, Fairfield University, Maritime Chevrolet of Fairfield, Cadillac of Greenwich, STAR 99.9, Abraham L. Green and Son Funeral Home, Fairfield Road Races, Luigi’s, AMR, and LesserEvil.