Podcast Title: We're All Insane
Episode: Driver Under the Influence Hit and Killed My Dad
Host: Devorah Roloff
Release Date: May 19, 2025
Introduction
In this deeply moving episode of We're All Insane, host Devorah Roloff, accompanied by her daughter Delaney, shares the harrowing experience of losing their father—Dan—due to a driver under the influence of drugs. The episode offers an unfiltered glimpse into their family's journey through trauma, grief, and healing, highlighting the profound impact of such a tragedy on personal and familial levels.
A Day Like Any Other
[00:26] Delaney sets the stage by recounting the mundane beginnings of January 24, 2024—a day that would forever alter their lives. The family, owners of a successful roofing company, went about their regular routines. Devorah took their younger daughter to a wrestling match, unaware that by the end of the day, their world would be shattered.
Danielle:
"It was started as a normal day. We went to work... I took her to the wrestling match. On my way home, my husband mentioned he was going for a run, training for a 50k Spartan race."
[00:51]
The Fateful Run
Dan, an avid fitness enthusiast, decided to run a 5K that day, planning to meet back home afterward. Devorah noticed something was off when Dan didn’t return at his usual time.
Danielle:
"I looked at the clock—6:17. That's weird. Dan should have been home a little before six. So I checked his location on 'Find My Friends,' and his blue dot wasn't moving."
[02:54]
Realization and Panic
Concerned, Devorah and her mother rushed to the accident scene on Route 13, only to be initially told by a police officer that Dan was not involved, identifying a construction worker instead. Suspicious, Devorah insisted on verifying the identity, leading to the devastating confirmation that Dan had been fatally struck.
Danielle:
"I know, I was freaked out because there's no ambulance. Did the person die? The cop confirmed it."
[07:04]
Navigating Grief and Arrangements
Returning home with her mother, Devorah faced the unimaginable task of informing their two youngest adopted children about Dan’s death. The episode delves into the complexities of grief, especially within a blended family structure.
Delaney:
"We pulled up to the house and didn’t know what they were doing. My mom told us, 'Your dad was running and was hit by a car.' I just fell to the ground... we all cried together."
[15:16]
Honoring Dan's Legacy
Dan was a pillar of the community and their family. The conversation highlights his dedication to his work, his passion for fitness, and the strong relationships he built over the years. His approach to business was deeply personal, creating a family-like atmosphere within their roofing company.
Delaney:
"Dan loved his work so much. He would run to the office in the morning, shower, and work until 8 PM. He built relationships with everyone he met."
[24:37]
Community Support and Funeral Arrangements
The episode underscores the outpouring of support from friends, family, and the community following Dan’s passing. Planning the funeral brought forth both logistical challenges and heartfelt tributes, reflecting the significant impact Dan had on those around him.
Danielle:
"The community rallied around us with food and support for months. Our funeral drew over 1,200 people, far exceeding our expectations."
[57:04]
Healing and Moving Forward
Devorah and Delaney discuss their individual and collective healing processes. Therapy, faith, and the unwavering support of their mother and sister-in-law played crucial roles in navigating their grief. They emphasize the importance of leaning on each other and finding strength in their faith and community.
Danielle:
"I pressed into my faith more than ever when my husband passed away. I couldn’t lay in bed and cry my life away; my kids needed me to stay strong."
[70:38]
Delaney:
"We leaned on each other a lot. Sitting in silence together was our way of coping."
[98:15]
Legacy and Remembrance
The episode concludes with reflections on Dan’s lasting legacy. From charitable runs honoring his memory to the continuous support from their community, Devorah and Delaney illustrate how Dan’s spirit endures through their actions and the love they continue to share.
Danielle:
"We have a great support system with my mom and sister-in-law always there for us. Dan’s legacy lives on through everything we do."
[85:16]
Delaney:
"Seeing cardinals and turtles around feels like Dan is still with us, watching over our family."
[94:16]
Conclusion
Driver Under the Influence Hit and Killed My Dad is a poignant testament to resilience, love, and the human spirit's capacity to overcome unspeakable loss. Devorah Roloff and her daughter Delaney offer listeners a raw and honest portrayal of their journey, providing solace and encouragement to anyone navigating similar tragedies. Through their story, the episode reinforces the message that even in the darkest moments, the support of loved ones and faith can pave the way toward healing and moving forward.
Notable Quotes:
- Danielle [00:51]: "It was started as a normal day. We went to work..."
- Danielle [02:54]: "I looked at the clock—6:17. That's weird. Dan should have been home a little before six."
- Delaney [15:16]: "We pulled up to the house and didn’t know what they were doing... we all cried together."
- Delaney [24:37]: "Dan loved his work so much. He would run to the office in the morning..."
- Danielle [57:04]: "The community rallied around us with food and support for months."
- Danielle [70:38]: "I pressed into my faith more than ever when my husband passed away."
- Delaney [98:15]: "We leaned on each other a lot. Sitting in silence together was our way of coping."
- Delaney [94:16]: "Seeing cardinals and turtles around feels like Dan is still with us..."
This comprehensive summary captures the essence of the episode, providing listeners with an in-depth understanding of Devorah and Delaney's experience while preserving the emotional weight and critical moments of their story.