Friday, July 15, 2011
Re: Comments
I appear to be having problems replying to comments on my blog, it wont recognize my open ID of mumofaddict, comes back each time invalid, help section within blogger for this problem is useless. Trying this way as new blog posting. Thanks Dad and Mom for comment, all I can add is what's wrong with our Governments & Health/Law department/ agencies for allowing such lethal substances to be sold legally. Urgent laws need to be passed to protect our future generations from acquiring addiction problems
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
New Generation. New Drug
I apologise to my followers/readers for kind of abandoning my blog of late. Shane's drug addiction/Methadone story was the platform and main reason for starting this blog and now that his story has come to an end, my passion re: my blog has waned a little. But I haven't lost sight of the fact that there are still lots of issue's regarding addictions that need to be aired and written about. So this posting is about our new generation coming through, my grandchildrens generation. It's a whole new ball-game out there today for them. The temptations and peer pressure that surrounds teenager's today regarding drugs/alcohol is huge and very worrying.
I can't speak for other countries, but in New Zealand we appear to now have a major problem with a new drug called 'Kronic'. It is a synthetic cannabis type drug, apparently highly addictive and can be purchased at, what we in NZ refer to as our local 'dairy', (little food/market shop.) No identification or age limit required to purchase this stuff, children as young as 10 years old are buying and smoking this new drug called 'Kronic'. It's obviously less expensive than cannabis/marijuana but gives the same, if not more satisfaction. Because this drug is legal, is cheap and can be purchased so easily we have a new very young generation with addiction problems looming up. Many years ago the problem drug was 'Heroin', then came 'Methamphetamine (P), now it's 'Kronic'. I think the drug 'P' re: it's addictive nature and problems still seems to rank and take precedence in NZ anyway over all other addictive drugs being used and abused. Nevertheless, I presume addiction experts are well aware of this new drug and it's addictive qualities. Therefore there should be help readily available for this new generation of addiction coming through!!!!!
But it's not only illicit drug's, legal or otherwise that is of concern regarding teenager's in today's society. Alcohol is another major problem for teens here in NZ, binge drinking and problems arising from that is rampant most weekends. Alcohol, with it's 'lollipop' mix's and different alcohol strengths is the reason for our youth binge drinking problem. Some responsibility though must be levelled at liquor retailers/outlets for the way they market and present these alcoholic beverages/mix's merely to entice young buyers. All these lovely coloured, fancy looking bottles of alcohol mix's is just to tempting for our young teens. Drinking 3 or 4 of these alcoholic mix's especially the high end strengths of 8 and 11% is not what our young teens bodies or brains can handle. These alcoholic drinks are just so nice and easy to drink, but the teens drinking them aren't equipped or experienced enough to know or guage the consequences or effects these alcoholic beverages have on them. Hence, undignified binge drinking, violence and drunk driving, sometimes fatal car accidents.
It's tough being a teenager growing up today, trying to obey rules parents impose but at the same time trying to keep up and impress friends and everyone else around them. We've all got to learn, it's part of life's experience and journey. However, sadly for some of this new generation coming through life's experiences are going to leave them with a bitter sweet taste.
My oldest grandchildren are: 20, 18 and 2 x 16 year olds and so far so good with them, but they have grown up with their uncle Shane's drug addiction and maybe witnessing and experiencing his addiction has helped them to be more aware and better equipped regards alcohol and drugs, I don't know. I'm just thankful we don't have any major problems in our midst, but I do feel concern for all those teens out there that aren't equipped or aware and do have problems.
I can't speak for other countries, but in New Zealand we appear to now have a major problem with a new drug called 'Kronic'. It is a synthetic cannabis type drug, apparently highly addictive and can be purchased at, what we in NZ refer to as our local 'dairy', (little food/market shop.) No identification or age limit required to purchase this stuff, children as young as 10 years old are buying and smoking this new drug called 'Kronic'. It's obviously less expensive than cannabis/marijuana but gives the same, if not more satisfaction. Because this drug is legal, is cheap and can be purchased so easily we have a new very young generation with addiction problems looming up. Many years ago the problem drug was 'Heroin', then came 'Methamphetamine (P), now it's 'Kronic'. I think the drug 'P' re: it's addictive nature and problems still seems to rank and take precedence in NZ anyway over all other addictive drugs being used and abused. Nevertheless, I presume addiction experts are well aware of this new drug and it's addictive qualities. Therefore there should be help readily available for this new generation of addiction coming through!!!!!
But it's not only illicit drug's, legal or otherwise that is of concern regarding teenager's in today's society. Alcohol is another major problem for teens here in NZ, binge drinking and problems arising from that is rampant most weekends. Alcohol, with it's 'lollipop' mix's and different alcohol strengths is the reason for our youth binge drinking problem. Some responsibility though must be levelled at liquor retailers/outlets for the way they market and present these alcoholic beverages/mix's merely to entice young buyers. All these lovely coloured, fancy looking bottles of alcohol mix's is just to tempting for our young teens. Drinking 3 or 4 of these alcoholic mix's especially the high end strengths of 8 and 11% is not what our young teens bodies or brains can handle. These alcoholic drinks are just so nice and easy to drink, but the teens drinking them aren't equipped or experienced enough to know or guage the consequences or effects these alcoholic beverages have on them. Hence, undignified binge drinking, violence and drunk driving, sometimes fatal car accidents.
It's tough being a teenager growing up today, trying to obey rules parents impose but at the same time trying to keep up and impress friends and everyone else around them. We've all got to learn, it's part of life's experience and journey. However, sadly for some of this new generation coming through life's experiences are going to leave them with a bitter sweet taste.
My oldest grandchildren are: 20, 18 and 2 x 16 year olds and so far so good with them, but they have grown up with their uncle Shane's drug addiction and maybe witnessing and experiencing his addiction has helped them to be more aware and better equipped regards alcohol and drugs, I don't know. I'm just thankful we don't have any major problems in our midst, but I do feel concern for all those teens out there that aren't equipped or aware and do have problems.
Saturday, June 11, 2011
Reader's Methadone Detox Regime
Methadone is an extremely controlling, burdensome substance for most that are using it. Taking Methadone becomes the user's daily grind, their 'liquid handcuffs', it is a substance that most have a love - hate relationship with, they hate the control and power it possess but love that it eases their pain and craving. However, ending the relationship with Methadone, withdrawing or detoxing from it even if deeply desired can be a very difficult almost fearful task. Therefore anything that can impede or aid the detoxification process off Methadone is definitely worth reporting or passing onto readers.
This detox regime is from one of my blog followers which she has kindly permitted me to pass on: This lady has been on Methadone for 10 years for back/pain surgeries and has found this method or detox regime very helpful. The following is quoted from her email:
I first ordered New Chapter Turmeric Force and the New Ginger Force ( I presume these are books), then I ordered the Ultra Clear Ph medical food/powder. In ONE WEEK I was able to go from 30mg of Methadone a day down to 10mg a day.( I feel this figure may be a typing error on her part, it seems a lot to withdraw down in one week) It was for the most part painless. I am on edge a bit but I also take Lexapro for depression so I assume that is helping me.
The one thing I have noticed is that if I eat suger (sweets) then my body pains come back tenfold. I also realized I am able to take the Ultra Clear Ph TWO times daily so that has really helped in the afternoons with the withdrawals.
I felt this detox regime was worth passing on, especially if it helps others as much as it has this lady. Good luck to all out there attempting Methadone withdrawal. Stay Strong and Positive, it is worth every ounce of effort and determination you put in.
This detox regime is from one of my blog followers which she has kindly permitted me to pass on: This lady has been on Methadone for 10 years for back/pain surgeries and has found this method or detox regime very helpful. The following is quoted from her email:
I first ordered New Chapter Turmeric Force and the New Ginger Force ( I presume these are books), then I ordered the Ultra Clear Ph medical food/powder. In ONE WEEK I was able to go from 30mg of Methadone a day down to 10mg a day.( I feel this figure may be a typing error on her part, it seems a lot to withdraw down in one week) It was for the most part painless. I am on edge a bit but I also take Lexapro for depression so I assume that is helping me.
The one thing I have noticed is that if I eat suger (sweets) then my body pains come back tenfold. I also realized I am able to take the Ultra Clear Ph TWO times daily so that has really helped in the afternoons with the withdrawals.
I felt this detox regime was worth passing on, especially if it helps others as much as it has this lady. Good luck to all out there attempting Methadone withdrawal. Stay Strong and Positive, it is worth every ounce of effort and determination you put in.
Sunday, May 22, 2011
Living In Recovery
In recovery or living in recovery, is a metaphorical term that is used to explain the stage after rehabilitation regarding one's addiction. It's general meaning is taking one day at a time and it is the golden rule within rehabilitation and support group programme's. It is presumed or said to be the most difficult stage or phase for those suffering with an addiction, but I kind of disagree. Don't all addict's or those with an addiction live one day at a time all the years of their addiction anyway, so on this assumption being in recovery is what those with an addiction are used to doing or living with, their addiction has made, trained or taught them to do this. An addict's life has revolved this way and probaby has so for many years, it's always been moment to moment, day to day and week to week in between sourcing and scoring just to survive their addiction.
Frankly I think the most difficult stage for those addicted is recognizing their addiction and getting to this recovery stage.
Shane and I talk periodically about rehab, recovery and addiction, not a lot because he wants to live in the now not in the past, however, he does semi agree saying 'recovery' is the term and it is what it is but thinks maybe living in or with temptation would be a more accurate and appropriate metaphoric term or stage to use, because that's what life after rehab is really all about. Once an addict always an addict as the saying goes, your addiction is never cured, rehabilitation can only teach how to control the urge or mindset of it. Shane say's he's lucky being the age he is regarding being in recovery, as those in their mid forties like himself seem to have a bit more control regards the temptation or urge to use again and don't put themselves at risk or in risky situations, so they probably have a better chance of success than those younger coming out of rehabilitation. The younger you are the harder the 'recovery' stage is, this age group still wants or needs to socialize and party, so the temptation and contact with those that are addicted and still using is much more prominent where this age group is concerned. Shane's says he's just happy to have what he has now and doesn't have the desire or need for more. But being 'in recovery' is the term and only those that are in the process of it know the real message behind it. Recovery, temptation is what life is for those addicted, but it's also the same for the families and loved ones that are or have lived with their addiction, our lives are in this 'recovery' stage as well.
Frankly I think the most difficult stage for those addicted is recognizing their addiction and getting to this recovery stage.
Shane and I talk periodically about rehab, recovery and addiction, not a lot because he wants to live in the now not in the past, however, he does semi agree saying 'recovery' is the term and it is what it is but thinks maybe living in or with temptation would be a more accurate and appropriate metaphoric term or stage to use, because that's what life after rehab is really all about. Once an addict always an addict as the saying goes, your addiction is never cured, rehabilitation can only teach how to control the urge or mindset of it. Shane say's he's lucky being the age he is regarding being in recovery, as those in their mid forties like himself seem to have a bit more control regards the temptation or urge to use again and don't put themselves at risk or in risky situations, so they probably have a better chance of success than those younger coming out of rehabilitation. The younger you are the harder the 'recovery' stage is, this age group still wants or needs to socialize and party, so the temptation and contact with those that are addicted and still using is much more prominent where this age group is concerned. Shane's says he's just happy to have what he has now and doesn't have the desire or need for more. But being 'in recovery' is the term and only those that are in the process of it know the real message behind it. Recovery, temptation is what life is for those addicted, but it's also the same for the families and loved ones that are or have lived with their addiction, our lives are in this 'recovery' stage as well.
Monday, May 2, 2011
Recovery Is Just A New Battle For The Addicted
Shane's drug addiction had spanned twenty five years when he entered into the Odyssey House residential rehabilitation programme. Shane may have controlled his addiction reasonably well in the early years but he certainly didn't in the later years, how he survived those years without overdosing his beyond belief. Some may profess it was just good luck that he did but I truly believe it was god's will and his way of giving Shane a second chance at life.
Shane entering into rehabilitation in April 2007 for his addiction was the answer to a mother's prayer and dream for her son. Shane had to face his demons with real courage and conviction though to overcome his embattled life of drug addiction and he vowed and declared long before graduating Odyssey's rehabilitation programme in September 2009 that drugs would never become part of his life again.
This vow and declaration has helped determine his path of recovery and today two years on Shane is still clean and free of drugs. He remains in the same employment position that he obtained while in Odyssey House back in 2009 and he has been in a solid, supportive, loving relationship for the last eighteen months. His partner has an adorable little three year old son whom Shane is a wonderful, hand's on stepdad to. So Shane's life has been rewarded and enriched in many ways since taking those first steps to become drug free four years ago.
Shane is very appreciative and respectful of the Odyssey House rehabilitation programme but he doesn't believe in living in the past, so his rehabilitation and years of drug addiction isn't something he reflects or dwells upon a great deal. Shane's attitude and focus is only on the years ahead now regarding his life, relationship and recovery.
Shane's story of drug addiction and Methadone treatment has come to an end. I hope my experience and views as a parent of a drug addicted loved one has been of some value and comfort to other parents or to those inflicted with an addiction. However, from time to time I plan to continue putting forward my experience/ views and information regarding Methadone and drug addiction, so my blog will not end.
Shane entering into rehabilitation in April 2007 for his addiction was the answer to a mother's prayer and dream for her son. Shane had to face his demons with real courage and conviction though to overcome his embattled life of drug addiction and he vowed and declared long before graduating Odyssey's rehabilitation programme in September 2009 that drugs would never become part of his life again.
This vow and declaration has helped determine his path of recovery and today two years on Shane is still clean and free of drugs. He remains in the same employment position that he obtained while in Odyssey House back in 2009 and he has been in a solid, supportive, loving relationship for the last eighteen months. His partner has an adorable little three year old son whom Shane is a wonderful, hand's on stepdad to. So Shane's life has been rewarded and enriched in many ways since taking those first steps to become drug free four years ago.
Shane is very appreciative and respectful of the Odyssey House rehabilitation programme but he doesn't believe in living in the past, so his rehabilitation and years of drug addiction isn't something he reflects or dwells upon a great deal. Shane's attitude and focus is only on the years ahead now regarding his life, relationship and recovery.
Shane's story of drug addiction and Methadone treatment has come to an end. I hope my experience and views as a parent of a drug addicted loved one has been of some value and comfort to other parents or to those inflicted with an addiction. However, from time to time I plan to continue putting forward my experience/ views and information regarding Methadone and drug addiction, so my blog will not end.
Monday, April 18, 2011
Drug Freedom And The Rehabilitation Journey Continued
As my previous post explained certain privileges, responsibilities and important duties are bestowed upon an entrant as he/she progresses through Odyssey's rehabilitation programme. But all is soon removed and an entrant is demoted back down the ladder of levels for any inappropriate behaviour or misdemeanours occurring. Entrant's recogonizing and accepting that there are consequences for every action and irresponsible decision is important for their rehabilitation and future recovery to be successful. By the September Shane had progressed up to a level 4 status entrant and entrant's on this level can apply for a days leave away from the centre once a week. However, entrants aren't permitted on outings alone they have to be accompanied by another level 4 peer. Apparently, Shane and a fellow peer had acted irresponsibly while out on a days leave from the centre and, subseqently, both were demoted back in levels, which also resulted in the loss of privileges. Shane made contact with me around the time of this incident and it was obvious he was disappointed enough in himself, without a mother's worthy wisdom flowing forth as well. He explained how and what had happened and didn't attempt to excuse his misdemeanour in anyway, but said the fact that it had occurred made him realize that a more concerted, determined effort was needed regarding his rehabilitation.
Addiction rehabilitation facilities such as Odyssey House all have programmes that are based on the twelve step principle of recovery. This therapeutic type programme and supportive environment enables entrant's to establish goals and recognize without fear or judgement his/her own successes and failures. Which in turn also encourges attitude and behavioural changes regarding one's addiction. Hence, the theory of rehabilitation programmes isn't about solving or curing the addiction for an entrant but to give them understanding of it and the skills to hopefully abstain and manage their long term recovery process successfully.
By the end of 2008 all Shane's privileges, duties and his level 4 status had been fully restored. It was a Saturday in mid January 2009 when Shane finally extended an invitation for us and his family to visit him at Odyssey House. It had been 10 months since we'd all seen him, so there was excitement tinged with a bit of nervousness about this first visit. But once in his company it was like we'd only seen him yesterday. Shane looked healthier and fitter and there seemed to be an air of confidence and importance about him which indicated his self worth and esteem had also been restored since being in rehabilitation. He took great delight in showing us all around the centre, it was a large sprawling type facility and the whole place had a warm, homely feel about it. Shane's gratitude, pride and respect in the centre, Odyssey's programme and in his fellow peers was very evident as he showed us through, stopping many times to introduce us and converse with other entrants's and Odyssey therapists. Shane said life at the centre was like living in a big commune and he'd come to enjoy this aspect of his rehabilitation at Odyssey House. I realized, as we walked through the centre, that Shane was well within his comfort zone, and all the people in Odyssey were now his family. After our guided tour, we all including Shane departed Odyssey to have a lovely picnic lunch at a park near by. Being exposed to Shane's life in Odyssey House did give me some understanding as to why he'd initially distanced himself from us. My only concern for Shane back then was, because he loved being at the centre and the lifestyle of it, how he'd feel when it came to to leave.
During lunch Shane explained, in order to proceed with his rehabilitation, he was to be candidated out, this meant finding employment. Once settled in employment Shane would move out of the centre and into one of the houses Odyssey owns with two other of his peers. There they would be responsible for sustaining themselves in a flatting type situation, with the requirement that they attend two meetings a week at the centre. Shane was nervous but seemed quite optimistic about his chances of gaining employment in the area.
Our next family invitation to visit Shane was to attend a community dinner at Odyssey House on April the 2nd 2009, which happened to be his first anniversary in rehabilitation. These community dinners are held fortnightly and are hosted by the entrants, whereby they can extend invitations for family to attend. This dinner is a real highlight for Odyssey entrants, with all residents pitching in to help prepare and cook the huge smorgasboard banquet meal for themselves and their guests, which I was told can be for up to 150 persons or more. It is a very social event for entrants and their guests, as well as a special celebration for those entrants who are graduating from the Odyssey rehabilitation programme. Along with much appreciated family time, it's an occasion and opportunity for entrants to intoduce their families to the wider residential community, including Odyssey's facilitators and therapists. It was a wonderful, unique experience and social event. The meal was a feast, the atmosphere was relaxed and jublient, with the centre's Kapa Haka group performing, then prayers and formalities. Two of Odyssey House entrants were graduating that night, and we felt honoured to be present at this special dinner and occasion, it was such a very humbling experience for us all.
On this occasion we conversed with a large number of Shane's peers and therapists, which left me feeling even more humbled and respectful of Odyssey House's reputation and programme. Also for the entrants on this programme, including Shane, for the courage and strength they all show in their attempt to end their addictions, which for some, have plagued their lives for many years, just like Shane's. Most we met readily discussed their addictions and journey of rehabilitation, openly and honestly. The camaraderie and support for one another is so very evident, especially to outsiders like ourselves. It was so comforting to know Shane was surrounded by people who cared about him as much as we did. The dinner and evening lasted approximately 3 hours, and it was nice to experience some of what Shane's life at the centre was all about. Shane intoduced us to three residents that night whom had entered Odyssey House about the same time as he had, all for Methadone withdrawal. They all declared how difficult those early months of rehabilitation had been to come off the Methadone, and none, including Shane would ever contemplate it as a treatment option again.
In the May Shane did acquire fulltime employment, and upon commencing work he was accommodated in one of the facilities re-entry houses with two other of his peers, as arranged, but only for a short time. He and a friend/peer located their own accommodation together within a short distance of their work places. The final stage and what's termed completion of Shane's rehabilitation within Odyssey House programme is his formal graduation. This entailed Shane collating a personal account of his twenty five year drug addiction, his journey of rehabilitation and his future long term goals. Once this proposal has been completed and accepted by Odyssey facilitator's, it is then shared within the centre's wider community and Shane is presented with a graduation certificate at a community dinner. I was told by some of Shane's peers, at the community dinner we attended, who had completed graduation that this is a difficult proposal to recount due to it's personal agenda. However, is is a necessary and important conclusion to the programme, and all canididates, at Shane's stage of rehabilitation do eventually achieve this graduation process. Our Shane though, being the skilled procrastinator he is, masterfully sidestepped this process for as long as was acceptable by the programme protocol. Eventually, Odyssey facilitator's felt it necessary to set a deadline for Shane to complete his proposal and he was given the date of mid September to do so. Failure to submit this proposal meant, although he would be considered to have completed the programme, he wouldn't officially graduate. This was all the incentive Shane needed, and his peers knew this as well. They all rallied and encouraged him, and we bombarded him with texts, and on September 17th 2009 Shane officially graduated, along with six other of his peers, from the Odyssey House rehabilitation programme.
I'm sure I speak on behalf of all Shane's family, those present or not at this special community graduation dinner, when I say that this was an intensely proud moment, and one I will remember and hold dear for the remainder of my years. Shane stood tall and proud, here, before us, was my son, clean of drugs, healthy and happy, ready to face his future head on. To mark our pride and respect for Shane and his achievement I had prepared a brief speech, my words were as follows:
No matter how strong the desire is to clean your life up of an addiction, the prospect of actually doing it is understandably the most terrifying, daunting task an addicted person will ever face. So we, Shane's family, have great pride in what Shane has achieved in accomplishing graduation tonight. I'd like to thank Odyssey House facilitator's, therapists and Shane's other fellow peers. Congratulations, Shane, and god bless you all.
I will update Shane's recovery process at a later date.
Addiction rehabilitation facilities such as Odyssey House all have programmes that are based on the twelve step principle of recovery. This therapeutic type programme and supportive environment enables entrant's to establish goals and recognize without fear or judgement his/her own successes and failures. Which in turn also encourges attitude and behavioural changes regarding one's addiction. Hence, the theory of rehabilitation programmes isn't about solving or curing the addiction for an entrant but to give them understanding of it and the skills to hopefully abstain and manage their long term recovery process successfully.
By the end of 2008 all Shane's privileges, duties and his level 4 status had been fully restored. It was a Saturday in mid January 2009 when Shane finally extended an invitation for us and his family to visit him at Odyssey House. It had been 10 months since we'd all seen him, so there was excitement tinged with a bit of nervousness about this first visit. But once in his company it was like we'd only seen him yesterday. Shane looked healthier and fitter and there seemed to be an air of confidence and importance about him which indicated his self worth and esteem had also been restored since being in rehabilitation. He took great delight in showing us all around the centre, it was a large sprawling type facility and the whole place had a warm, homely feel about it. Shane's gratitude, pride and respect in the centre, Odyssey's programme and in his fellow peers was very evident as he showed us through, stopping many times to introduce us and converse with other entrants's and Odyssey therapists. Shane said life at the centre was like living in a big commune and he'd come to enjoy this aspect of his rehabilitation at Odyssey House. I realized, as we walked through the centre, that Shane was well within his comfort zone, and all the people in Odyssey were now his family. After our guided tour, we all including Shane departed Odyssey to have a lovely picnic lunch at a park near by. Being exposed to Shane's life in Odyssey House did give me some understanding as to why he'd initially distanced himself from us. My only concern for Shane back then was, because he loved being at the centre and the lifestyle of it, how he'd feel when it came to to leave.
During lunch Shane explained, in order to proceed with his rehabilitation, he was to be candidated out, this meant finding employment. Once settled in employment Shane would move out of the centre and into one of the houses Odyssey owns with two other of his peers. There they would be responsible for sustaining themselves in a flatting type situation, with the requirement that they attend two meetings a week at the centre. Shane was nervous but seemed quite optimistic about his chances of gaining employment in the area.
Our next family invitation to visit Shane was to attend a community dinner at Odyssey House on April the 2nd 2009, which happened to be his first anniversary in rehabilitation. These community dinners are held fortnightly and are hosted by the entrants, whereby they can extend invitations for family to attend. This dinner is a real highlight for Odyssey entrants, with all residents pitching in to help prepare and cook the huge smorgasboard banquet meal for themselves and their guests, which I was told can be for up to 150 persons or more. It is a very social event for entrants and their guests, as well as a special celebration for those entrants who are graduating from the Odyssey rehabilitation programme. Along with much appreciated family time, it's an occasion and opportunity for entrants to intoduce their families to the wider residential community, including Odyssey's facilitators and therapists. It was a wonderful, unique experience and social event. The meal was a feast, the atmosphere was relaxed and jublient, with the centre's Kapa Haka group performing, then prayers and formalities. Two of Odyssey House entrants were graduating that night, and we felt honoured to be present at this special dinner and occasion, it was such a very humbling experience for us all.
On this occasion we conversed with a large number of Shane's peers and therapists, which left me feeling even more humbled and respectful of Odyssey House's reputation and programme. Also for the entrants on this programme, including Shane, for the courage and strength they all show in their attempt to end their addictions, which for some, have plagued their lives for many years, just like Shane's. Most we met readily discussed their addictions and journey of rehabilitation, openly and honestly. The camaraderie and support for one another is so very evident, especially to outsiders like ourselves. It was so comforting to know Shane was surrounded by people who cared about him as much as we did. The dinner and evening lasted approximately 3 hours, and it was nice to experience some of what Shane's life at the centre was all about. Shane intoduced us to three residents that night whom had entered Odyssey House about the same time as he had, all for Methadone withdrawal. They all declared how difficult those early months of rehabilitation had been to come off the Methadone, and none, including Shane would ever contemplate it as a treatment option again.
In the May Shane did acquire fulltime employment, and upon commencing work he was accommodated in one of the facilities re-entry houses with two other of his peers, as arranged, but only for a short time. He and a friend/peer located their own accommodation together within a short distance of their work places. The final stage and what's termed completion of Shane's rehabilitation within Odyssey House programme is his formal graduation. This entailed Shane collating a personal account of his twenty five year drug addiction, his journey of rehabilitation and his future long term goals. Once this proposal has been completed and accepted by Odyssey facilitator's, it is then shared within the centre's wider community and Shane is presented with a graduation certificate at a community dinner. I was told by some of Shane's peers, at the community dinner we attended, who had completed graduation that this is a difficult proposal to recount due to it's personal agenda. However, is is a necessary and important conclusion to the programme, and all canididates, at Shane's stage of rehabilitation do eventually achieve this graduation process. Our Shane though, being the skilled procrastinator he is, masterfully sidestepped this process for as long as was acceptable by the programme protocol. Eventually, Odyssey facilitator's felt it necessary to set a deadline for Shane to complete his proposal and he was given the date of mid September to do so. Failure to submit this proposal meant, although he would be considered to have completed the programme, he wouldn't officially graduate. This was all the incentive Shane needed, and his peers knew this as well. They all rallied and encouraged him, and we bombarded him with texts, and on September 17th 2009 Shane officially graduated, along with six other of his peers, from the Odyssey House rehabilitation programme.
I'm sure I speak on behalf of all Shane's family, those present or not at this special community graduation dinner, when I say that this was an intensely proud moment, and one I will remember and hold dear for the remainder of my years. Shane stood tall and proud, here, before us, was my son, clean of drugs, healthy and happy, ready to face his future head on. To mark our pride and respect for Shane and his achievement I had prepared a brief speech, my words were as follows:
No matter how strong the desire is to clean your life up of an addiction, the prospect of actually doing it is understandably the most terrifying, daunting task an addicted person will ever face. So we, Shane's family, have great pride in what Shane has achieved in accomplishing graduation tonight. I'd like to thank Odyssey House facilitator's, therapists and Shane's other fellow peers. Congratulations, Shane, and god bless you all.
I will update Shane's recovery process at a later date.
Saturday, April 2, 2011
Drug Freedom And The Rehabilitation Journey
Shane approached and entered into Odyssey House's addiction rehabilitation centre with a commitment and determination I'd not seen in him before, which indicated he was truely ready to face and conquer his demons. The desire to be drug free was always within Shane but the will to pursue it had slowly diminished the more controlling and encumbering his addiction became that's all. This lack of will, confidence or faith, whatever it may have been clearly wasn't the case anymore though. It was like Shane had come full circle regarding his drug addiction. His goal was still the same as in 94 but there was definitely a more optimistic and motivated approach towards pursuing it this time around. The processs and rehabilitation journey ahead achieving his goal of drug freedom being difficult didn't seem to be overly perturbing him either. Shane's life had been at the mercy of drugs for many years but out of the despair had come determination and out of the hopelessness of it had come strength. He finally believed enough in himself and in his ability to accomplish and overcome what had always seemed an overwhelming task. Shane admitted, on the day of entry though, to being a bit nervous and apprehensive about everything, but still eager to proceed with his rehabilitation. Although Shane had a fairly outgoing personality I do think this day he was feeling quite nervous about meeting and getting to know everybody within the Odyssey community as well.
Shane and I had talked a lot about the months ahead of him in rehabilitation, prior to his entry. He'd stated in those conversations, that he may not extend and invitation for us to visit in the early stages of his rehabilitation, he just felt it might be better for him if he didn't have personal contact with family for a while. His words were; "I need to do this on my own mum, the lone wolf way, like I was on the streets that time without any distractions or emotional hang up's". Shane's declaration wasn't at all surprising or upsetting, this sort of thinking is so very typical of the type of person Shane is. His reasoning about this though was understandable and it did once again verify how important this rehabilitation journey was to him. However, understanding it didn't make our final goodbyes any easier that day at Odyssey's admission centre, especially not knowing how long it was going to be before Shane permitted us to see him again.
Upon entry Shane's addiction was stable and his daily Methadone dose was 36mgs. The first stage of Shane's rehabilitation was, of course, to withdraw off the Methadone. This took him approximately sixteen weeks, so it was the August of 2008 that total Methadone withdrawal was completed. There was sporadic telephone contact and mail from Shane during this time. He stated then that with the Methadone withdrawal process he was very thankful to have been in a rehabilitation facility, as even reducing down at 2mgs a week was rough going, physically and mentally. He said in the early weeks of withdrawal there were times he felt like 'shit' with flu like sypmtoms and slight nausea, and that the whole withdrawal process would've been a lot more difficult without the support of peers in the centre, regular therapy sessions and anxiety medication. Shane now believes that withdrawing completely off Methadone is the one thing that could never be successfully accomplished outside a residential rehabilitation facility because the lower you go and feel, the more tempting it is to drug abuse. It took a lot of determination and willpower for him to stay in the centre and accomplish it himself, he said. The pride Shane felt in finally achieving this major task of Methadone withdrawal was evident in his voice and would've been a sight to behold. However, this was something we weren't privy to as his request for having no family visits hadn't yet changed. His achievement could only be acknowledged with letters and cards of congratulations.
Odyssey House has three different residential addiction facilities within the Auckland region, the adult, dual diagnosis and a youth centre. Odyssey's adult centre where Shane was entered caters for both genders and is from 18 years old upwards. No outside staff are employed to operate Odyssey's adult facility, the entrants living within the centre are responsible for it's daily upkeep and operation. All entrants are assigned general housekeeping duties when they enter into rehabilitation, kitchen, laundry etc, the facilities garden maintenance and lawns are also included in assigned duties. Shane explained facility staff does check that all duties and tasks are completed to a high standard, and that if the centre doesn't pass inspection then the whole house is locked down and privileges are removed. It is part of Odyssey's higer level entrant's responsibility to supervise and make sure all housekeeping duties are carried out to the required standard. This is all part of the Odyssey House rehabilitation programme; that between housekeeping duties, peer group meetings and therapy sessions, an entrant is kept busy and occupied in the first few months of their rehabilitation daily from 7am until 9pm. Entrants have only one hour of television daily throughout the week, the news at 6pm, but television viewing time is extended to a movie at weekends. As an entrant progesses up the levels, his/her duties are minimized so they can supervise lower levels. The higher level entrants are also permitted to have more television viewing time. Shane stated these are small privileges but ones that are greatly appreciated, so loosing them is a sad loss. Respect for the Odyssey programme and fellow peers is expected and emphasized whilst in rehabilitation. It is important and vital being that Odyssey is a large community of people that this rule is adhered to at all times in and oustide the facility. Shane said any entrant whom doesn't comply to this rule are held accountable and it is deemed and treated by Odyssey facilitators as a serious misdemeanour.
The Odyssey House programme is structured in a way that involves the entrants to be responsible for the centre's daily operation and it all works on a simple points and reward system. Hence, this programme not only teaches responsibility and respect for others, but also that entrant's take pride in themselves and in what he/she achieves on a daily basis. This is the reason why I believe Odyssey House's rehabilitation programme is so highly respected and successful.
Shane had been in Odyssey for some months and we still hadn't had any personal contact with him, with no invitation so far to visit being extended. However, contact I had with Shane around the September/October established that his journey of rehabilitation had struck a small bump, nothing major but one he did own up to having. I will explain further about this and continue Shane's rehabilitation journey in my next posting. As it is this posting has ended up longer than anticipated.
Shane and I had talked a lot about the months ahead of him in rehabilitation, prior to his entry. He'd stated in those conversations, that he may not extend and invitation for us to visit in the early stages of his rehabilitation, he just felt it might be better for him if he didn't have personal contact with family for a while. His words were; "I need to do this on my own mum, the lone wolf way, like I was on the streets that time without any distractions or emotional hang up's". Shane's declaration wasn't at all surprising or upsetting, this sort of thinking is so very typical of the type of person Shane is. His reasoning about this though was understandable and it did once again verify how important this rehabilitation journey was to him. However, understanding it didn't make our final goodbyes any easier that day at Odyssey's admission centre, especially not knowing how long it was going to be before Shane permitted us to see him again.
Upon entry Shane's addiction was stable and his daily Methadone dose was 36mgs. The first stage of Shane's rehabilitation was, of course, to withdraw off the Methadone. This took him approximately sixteen weeks, so it was the August of 2008 that total Methadone withdrawal was completed. There was sporadic telephone contact and mail from Shane during this time. He stated then that with the Methadone withdrawal process he was very thankful to have been in a rehabilitation facility, as even reducing down at 2mgs a week was rough going, physically and mentally. He said in the early weeks of withdrawal there were times he felt like 'shit' with flu like sypmtoms and slight nausea, and that the whole withdrawal process would've been a lot more difficult without the support of peers in the centre, regular therapy sessions and anxiety medication. Shane now believes that withdrawing completely off Methadone is the one thing that could never be successfully accomplished outside a residential rehabilitation facility because the lower you go and feel, the more tempting it is to drug abuse. It took a lot of determination and willpower for him to stay in the centre and accomplish it himself, he said. The pride Shane felt in finally achieving this major task of Methadone withdrawal was evident in his voice and would've been a sight to behold. However, this was something we weren't privy to as his request for having no family visits hadn't yet changed. His achievement could only be acknowledged with letters and cards of congratulations.
Odyssey House has three different residential addiction facilities within the Auckland region, the adult, dual diagnosis and a youth centre. Odyssey's adult centre where Shane was entered caters for both genders and is from 18 years old upwards. No outside staff are employed to operate Odyssey's adult facility, the entrants living within the centre are responsible for it's daily upkeep and operation. All entrants are assigned general housekeeping duties when they enter into rehabilitation, kitchen, laundry etc, the facilities garden maintenance and lawns are also included in assigned duties. Shane explained facility staff does check that all duties and tasks are completed to a high standard, and that if the centre doesn't pass inspection then the whole house is locked down and privileges are removed. It is part of Odyssey's higer level entrant's responsibility to supervise and make sure all housekeeping duties are carried out to the required standard. This is all part of the Odyssey House rehabilitation programme; that between housekeeping duties, peer group meetings and therapy sessions, an entrant is kept busy and occupied in the first few months of their rehabilitation daily from 7am until 9pm. Entrants have only one hour of television daily throughout the week, the news at 6pm, but television viewing time is extended to a movie at weekends. As an entrant progesses up the levels, his/her duties are minimized so they can supervise lower levels. The higher level entrants are also permitted to have more television viewing time. Shane stated these are small privileges but ones that are greatly appreciated, so loosing them is a sad loss. Respect for the Odyssey programme and fellow peers is expected and emphasized whilst in rehabilitation. It is important and vital being that Odyssey is a large community of people that this rule is adhered to at all times in and oustide the facility. Shane said any entrant whom doesn't comply to this rule are held accountable and it is deemed and treated by Odyssey facilitators as a serious misdemeanour.
The Odyssey House programme is structured in a way that involves the entrants to be responsible for the centre's daily operation and it all works on a simple points and reward system. Hence, this programme not only teaches responsibility and respect for others, but also that entrant's take pride in themselves and in what he/she achieves on a daily basis. This is the reason why I believe Odyssey House's rehabilitation programme is so highly respected and successful.
Shane had been in Odyssey for some months and we still hadn't had any personal contact with him, with no invitation so far to visit being extended. However, contact I had with Shane around the September/October established that his journey of rehabilitation had struck a small bump, nothing major but one he did own up to having. I will explain further about this and continue Shane's rehabilitation journey in my next posting. As it is this posting has ended up longer than anticipated.
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