“I was arrested in August of 2003. I was depressed and using drugs and alcohol with people who didn’t care whether I lived or died. I chose to be with these people and do whatever they were doing. The people I was with, the things I was doing, and the places I went seemed like normal things to do. It only left me untrusting of everyone, more depressed, alone, and facing felony charges for the first time in my life. I was frightened about my future.

At first, I thought there were a lot of rules and restrictions. I was concerned about the length of time it would take to complete the program. I wasn’t sure if I even belonged in drug court. I know I wasn’t much of a “people person” and didn’t get along well with others. The program seemed very time consuming and personally invasive. In the end, all of my concerns seemed to be found untrue. It was all good.

Through the program, I learned to take responsibility for my actions, be accountable for my decisions, and honestly accept my mistakes. I found I could change every aspect of my life if I wanted it enough. I found that I could live life on life’s terms without using drugs or breaking the law.

Being sober, I was able to go back to school, learn a trade, and find gainful employment in a job that I enjoy. I am able to maintain healthy relationships with people who I trust who won’t take advantage of me. I stay connected with other alumni of the program and attend as many meetings and functions of drug court as I can.”