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Brandon Tells His Story
Shortly before his high school prom at Los Gatos High School, 17 year-old Brandon Silveria was involved in a near-fatal crash after drinking a couple of beers at a high school party. After enduring a coma for nearly three months and another three years of painful rehabilitation, Brandon and his father Tony tour America's high schools full-time on behalf of The Century Council.
Despite his permanent and visible speech and walking disabilities, Brandon delivers a compelling message to teens about the dangers of drinking and driving. Brandon's proactive efforts to educate teens and encourage responsible decisions continue to make an impact at schools across the country. In fact, a pin-drop can be heard in high school auditoriums when Brandon is at the podium making his presentation. Brandon reached his one-millionth student at his hometown high school, Los Gatos High, in May 2001 and received an honorary high school diploma.
After Brandon's story was featured in an episode of the television show "Rescue: 911," Brandon and his father, Tony, agreed with The Council that their personal tragedy could be turned into an educational triumph. They now speak nationwide to young people and their parents on The Council's behalf.
To extend the reach of the program, the Council created a 30-minute video and student activity guide. Brandon Tells His Story has won a FREDDIE in the American Medical Association's International Health and Medical Film Competition (1996) and a "Chris" in the Columbus, Ohio International Film & Video Festival (1995), which recognizes achievement in educational and documentary film and video. Order the video for use in your school.
New Parental Supplement
As a compliment to our Brandon Tells His Story program, Brandon's father, Tony Silveria, has begun speaking to parents to stress the importance of talking to their teens about making the right choice about underage drinking. Tony distributes tips to help parents facilitate conversations with teens about the consequences and risks of underage drinking. The "Tony's Tips" parents' brochure also features a "Get Home Safe" card for parents to cut out and give to their teen with tips on how to say no to alcohol.
Download Tony's Tips
Send an Email TonyFor school faculty and administrators
Help to share Brandon's story. Click here to send an ecard to parents and guardians of students who attend a live "Brandon tells his story" presentation. Contact Brandon and Tony Silveria via email.
Results: Brandon's message helps students make the right choice
Of 1,628 students responding in informal, confidential surveys after viewing the video, approximately 17 percent said they had driven after drinking. Of this group, 84 percent said they are less likely to do so again after hearing Brandon's story. Another 32 percent said that they had ridden with a friend who had been drinking. Of this group, 74 percent said that they are less likely to do so again after hearing Brandon.
Audience responses to Brandon's message
Here is a sample of the audience testimonials that Brandon's message to high school students has inspired:
"I would recommend the presentation to any organization with members who are old enough to drive. If you get the opportunity ... don't pass it up!"
— Asst. Principal, Bloomington High School, Bloomington, CA
"Brandon opened the eyes of not only the student body, but also the adult sector in the community. The impact will forever last in [their] minds."
— Sergeant, Hobbs Police Department, Hobbs, NM
"The core message ... is an inspiration. [Tony and Brandon] received an A+ in my book."
— Parent, West, TX
"In our society today, in the movies and the musicians around us, show us that drinking is the cool thing to do. They never showed us how hideous the outcomes can be. A hero recovers from mistakes and helps guide others in the right direction. [Brandon] is a hero."
— Student, Dansville Central High School, Dansville, NY
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