Pubdate: Sun, 25 Dec 2005
Source: Desert Sun, The (CA)
Copyright: 2005 The Desert Sun
Contact:  http://www.thedesertsun.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1112
Author: Patrick Mathers
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/meth.htm (Methamphetamine)

TO HELL AND BACK

I'm a recovering meth addict and was born in Indio ("Meth lurks
everywhere," Dec. 18). I now live in North Carolina.

I got hooked on meth in 1981, and used it heavily until 1997. I
disappointed a lot of people down the road. I remember one time I had
a minor heart attack, but that didn't stop me. I had to keep on
following that euphoria that I once had and never got again.

I've been to jail and went through detox programs.

One day, I finally saw myself in a mirror and said to myself "I'm
tired of being sick and tired." So I called up mental health and told
them I needed help. I was told they could get me in a state hospital
in about 90 days. I told them I didn't have 90 days - I needed help
then or they were going to be putting me in the ground within that
time.

That's when my recovery started. To this day, I'm so glad that I made
a good decision in my life. Today, I'm happily married to a wonderful
wife and have two wonderful grandchildren. Don't get me wrong - there
are times when I think about old times, but I try not to stay too long.

Take it one day at a time, be strong and call your sponsor as much as
you need to no matter what time it is.

Patrick Mathers

West Jefferson, N.C.
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MAP posted-by: Larry Seguin