I am 37 years old, with 2 children. I started using when I was about 12 years old drinking and smoking pot with older friends. I didn’t know the impact it would have on my life in the future nor did I think it would ruin and destroy everything I ever loved.  From partying with friends to full blown addiction occurred quickly. I went from using everyday to being introduced to a needle.  After I started injecting heroine in my early 20’s I lost sight and care of both my children and my entire life. I went to prison 2 different times and didn’t see my kids or family for almost 5 years due to my drug use.

Aside from the time I lost in prison the years of drug use completely tore me from everything. I never thought I would be where I am today.  I’m not sure what changed in me, but when it finally did, having people there to help me really mattered. I fully believe that each person stops for a different reason and at different times. But one thing remains true, when they do decide to change, we need to be there completely and with an open heart, and if we can reach children before they ever need to make that choice, that is even better.  No matter where they are in life when its time for them to stop and they really want help, we have to be ready to help. Programs and foundations like this and others are saviors in many peoples lives because we know what the struggle consists of.  When it is time, we have to be there to help.