Drug and alcohol addiction and abuse. Recognition. Prevention. Treatment

20/20 Parenting. Recognizing and mitigating early vulnerabilities and risk factors.

Letters to Kerry

Stories of Victory, Struggle, Tragedy, & Workplace Concerns

April 16, 2007:

Hi Kerry, you don't know me but my name is Jessica. I am a recovering crystal meth addict. I currently am at a correctional facility for women. Our recreational therapist...told me about how you lost a loved one and are reaching out to help others who suffer from addiction. I am going to...treatment centre upon release (May 16th). The program is for 10 weeks. I am looking to get some supports in the community to help me stay clean and sober. I am hoping along the way I could connect with you to help give back while incarcerated.

Last year I went to...highschool...to give a presentation to the students about drug use and what the end result is: jails, institutions, and death. It touched my heart to be able to inform the children that drugs were not cool, and just being able to touch and change one kid's life that day made a huge difference for me. I am really scared to be back in the community with so many risks out there and not having a strong support network. My family is clean and sober and when I am done treatment I can live...with my brother and sister-in-law and darling niece and nephew. I know about NA meetings...but I know myself and I need more than that to help me stay focused. So I am asking you if there is anything you can help with I would greatly appreciate it.

Thank you for taking the time to read my letter. Yours truly,

Jessica

I was so impressed by Jessica's offer to give back and brave reach out for support. I am looking forward to meeting her and supporting her in any way I can. Who knows, maybe one day she will co-present with me as Summer has twice now. That would be a blessing for so many...me too. – K

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