REAL STORIES

Age: 42
Gender: Male

I never even knew anybody who used drugs. Growing up, I never knew anybody that had been to jail. I was a straight A student all through high-school. I graduated with honors and went on to attend a major university. About halfway through my college career, I started doing meth. My excuse was "it helps me focus and study." Within 6 months of starting, I dropped out of college. I found that I needed more and more meth just to function. I ended up running with a pack of outlaws. I was soon "living the life" of a drig addict. Everyone I knew used meth, cocaine, pills, pot, - anything that would get them high. I was arrested for meth possession in 1992 during a routine traffic stop. After bonding out on that charge, I went back to "the life" - doing anything to get money and more meth. I cashed bad checks, bought more meth and became a dealer. I was arrested several times for various theft charges relating to the bad checks and I ended up serving a small amount of time in prison. My first few weeks in lockup were miserable. All i could do was sleep - literally, for WEEKS. When I finally woke up and was coherent, I reevaluated everything in my life. I looked at what I had become and I hated what I saw. By this time, I had lost many friends to drug overdoses, and lots of folks I knew were doing hard time for various crimes. I decided to make a change. This is getting lengthy so I'll cut short. Basically, i ended up finishing my degree - having a nice family - and getting a good job. I am still paying the price now with bad credit, lots of debt, and a late start to my now wonderful life. If I could do it over again, I would have NEVER tied meth - even once. I would really like to help by sharing my story and talking to kids - I feel like it's my duty, but in my new life, no one knows about my past (at my job, etc.). I have moved to a different town and started over. I am so ashamed of myself, but proud at the same time that I was able to beat it. So many people I know haven't! been able to do what I have done. I have lots to share and I know I can help - but I just need to workup the courage to do so. Please contact me with more details.

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