METHADONE PROGRAM MUST NOT BE LOST

No drug addict I've met has set out to become one. Most of them became
addicts through some misfortune in their lives, such as having been abused
as a child or wife. Some drugs help temper the emotional scars they may
carry for a lifetime.

The methadone program provides one of the few available avenues for addicts
who desire to turn their lives around.

My friend, companion and partner was addicted to morphine. She was weak and
her health so poor that she couldn't take the methadone program. I wanted
to save her life but I couldn't.

I was with her every day for eight months while she suffered painfully but
there was little help I could provide. This experience was worse for me
than the pain I suffered later as I, too, became addicted to morphine to
drown the sorrow and loneliness of losing her.

I knew I was in trouble. Twice I quit the drug "cold turkey" and twice the
unforgiving cravings brought me back. The third attempt to quit made me
realize that I would rather kill myself than to go through withdrawal pains
again.

I sought and received help from the methadone clinic. I was on the program
for 11 months. I have been off the program for four months and I have no
physical pains or cravings for either drug.

I have no intention to touch morphine again. I take time to talk to other
addicts and tell them of the benefits of the methadone program. I owe my
life to the doctors and staff of the clinic.

To lose this service would be a tragedy for all residents of Saskatoon.

Bob Schumacker, Saskatoon