NEW DRUG REHAB OPENS

Roland Knew When The Pangs Were Coming

His mouth would water, the anticipation would make his hands shake and
he'd vomit uncontrollably.

"Withdrawal for a cocaine addict is hell," said the 55-year-old at the
opening of the Glendale House.

St. Joseph's Health Centre launched the new $1.4-million residential
Withdrawal Management Service yesterday that will offer support to up
to 26 substance abusers, steps away from the hospital. Six of those
beds will be dedicated to women.

FIRST SINCE 1990S

After 20 years of using sporadically, cocaine consumed Roland's life
when his mother died three years ago.

A haphazard introduction to the withdrawal service at St. Joe's has
helped him remain drug-free for six months.

"There's a mental and physical relationship in addiction withdrawal
and both (services) should be available at the same facility," Roland
said. "Often they only treat one or the other."

Glendale House is the first withdrawal service to open in Toronto
since the early 1990s when Toronto East General Hospital opened a
similar residential home for users.

RESIDENTIAL FACILITY

"It's unique in that it's a residential facility but has institutional
safeguards, has an effective monitoring layout and utilizes
technological advances such as security cameras and alarms, but you
wouldn't know that from looking at the building," program manager
Michael Dean said.

The bright, airy house that sits unassumingly in the west-end
neighbourhood will help patients recover in a comfortable,
non-threatening setting.

About 20 staff members will monitor clients and offer social,
emotional and educational support.