COCAINE'S IMPACT ON LIVES MUST BE KNOWN

Editor:

Re: Cocaine use growing on our streets, The Herald, May 15

I applaud Herald reporter Gerald Gauthier for bringing this
Canada-wide epidemic to light. I am a local employer who has witnessed
very good co-workers and employees, labourers and professionals alike,
become overtaken by this addiction.

This is not industry specific, nor a blue-collar, stereotypical street
drug addiction. This addiction is hitting hard in the white collar
career/professional sectors. Not only younger professionals are
affected, but also professionals in their late 30s, 40s, 50s and up --
people who have good families, backgrounds, finances, morals, ethics.
It is very sad to see how in such a short time, people can lose the
quality/control of their lives, lose who they are, their families, all
they have worked for. This is the Great White Lie -- use simply for
recreational/social purposes -- then ultimately out of control.

There are residual effects employers and co-workers endure when
working with a person struggling with this burden. A roller-coaster
ride begins: disruption of workplace, disrespectful behaviour,
unexplained outbursts, inability to cope with simple, routine tasks,
increased tardiness, missed appointments, increased absence from work
which results in co-workers taking on increased workloads. Legal
authorities may become involved regarding risk to safety/security of
co-workers as well as business.

This is serious. It is difficult to know exactly how to effectively
deal with this in the workplace. Experience teaches to try to
recognize the signs early, offer constructive support/assistance, have
plenty of patience until events dictate otherwise, and finally, be
prepared for anything.

KAREN SHIPLEY

Lethbridge