EMPOWERING STORY

I was so excited to see that article on Oliver Hamilton and the Prop.
36 issue ["The Front Lines," Aug. 15] that I had to write. I have
also been fortunate enough to meet Mr. Hamilton. He's been an
inspiration for me as well, so much so that after meeting him in
Sacramento at the last Prop. 36 rally, I started a MySpace group
(groups.myspace.com/ prop36grads) hoping to attract other grads and
to give back, providing some great forums, bulletin topics, and
pictures that any member can freely post.

I am a proud graduate, and it always touches my heart and soul when
others are active in the pursuit of recovery.

I have 426 days today, and my battle continues daily--but when I see
people like Oliver Hamilton and the Drug Policy Alliance in my
corner, getting some well-deserved recognition, it literally empowers
and motivates me and, more so, it reminds me that, hey, I'm not alone
in this struggle.

When I see other Prop. 36 grads, I see myself--and I feel successful today.

Tony Jackson,

Laguna Hills