US PA: LTE: Results of heroin's ravages provide milestones we'd rather not recall

Today is an anniversary, but there will be no celebration with all the
trimmings -- no radiant smiles from friends and family; no balloons,
songs of joy or dancing. Our family will be together to offer each
other support and strength.

One year ago today I received a call from my sister, screaming
"Katie's dead!" I tried to calm her, and to find out if this was a
cruel prank -- because she was told over the phone by one of Katie's
friends -- I called Katie's apartment. A detective answered the phone,
and I knew it was true. The detective was brief; he told me her
apartment was considered a crime scene. He would not confirm her death
but her roommate's loud wailing in the background was confirmation in
itself.

Katie died of a heroin overdose.

Heroin? Not our Katie.

I have read how drug addicts are the dregs of society, thieves and
robbers. People in this valley have to realize this could be one of
their neighbors, family members, a member of their parish or co-worker.

Katie was a very productive individual. She worked as a manager, went
to college, graduated from high school with honors. It was a shock to
learn she was a heroin addict.

All of you who think drug addicts are the waste of our society and it
couldn't happen to you, please learn from this. Talk to your children
about drugs, tell of the dangers and watch for warning signs. Attend a
local drug forum to learn more about abuse.

Drug and alcohol abuse are here in the valley and will not go away as
long as the pushers and dealers are out there making money.

If you are addicted, go for help. Don't become an anniversary that
will never be forgotten. This April 17 along with every April 17 to
come will be the day Katie died of a heroin overdose.

Dolores Baynock Kingston