FORTUNATE CIRCUMSTANCES FOR ADDICT'S RECOVERY

Several points made by Joanne Hammer's article ("Former Meth Addict
Turned Pastor Shares Story Of Escaping Drug's Grasp, May 25) deserve
more emphasis:

There's no mention of incarceration in Irving's story as told.
Avoidance of incarceration can make all the difference in whether a
person "escapes" drug use with hopes for an intact life and
opportunity in the future. Mr. Irving was fortunate.

Irving was asked to leave high school, however made adjustments and
"was able to stay and finish high school." Finishing high school can
make a big difference in whether a person has opportunity in the
future. Mr. Irving was fortunate.

Irving cites the support of his parents. A strong, consistent, and
reliable support system (especially if it includes family) can make
all the difference in whether a person escapes drug use with hope and
opportunity intact. Mr. Irving was fortunate.

Irving had access to rehab. Strong, accessible, affordable,
available, and effective rehab services can be very difficult to
obtain. Mr. Irving was fortunate.

Irving started helping others. Working with others from his level of
experience and with the other supports already mentioned, can help to
build connections and community, help to hold oneself accountable to
others, and help to build both self-esteem and self-efficacy. Mr.
Irving was fortunate.

Mr. Tooloose summed it up pretty well: It isn't easy. Mr. Irving was
blessed, indeed to have so many positive supports in his
rehabilitation efforts.

Everyone who needs those supports should be so fortunate.

- Elizabeth Wehrman, BSN, RN

LeClaire, Iowa