Florida Sees Drop in Deaths Caused by Prescription Drugs

By Join Together Staff | October 26, 2012 | Leave a comment | Filed inCommunity Related & Prescription Drugs

The number of prescription drug-related deaths decreased in Florida in 2011, according to a new report. Deaths related to oxycodone decreased more than 17 percent, according to The Miami Herald.

The number of deaths due to cocaine, heroin and the cancer pain medication Fentanyl increased last year, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement announced this week. The department released a report based on data from every medical examiner in the state.

Alcohol continued to be the most common substance found in drug-related deaths, the report found.

The decrease in prescription drug-related deaths comes as the state has worked to close down “pill mills,” pain clinics that sell pain medications to people shopping for narcotics.

Between 2010 and 2011, the number of people who died with a fatal amount of prescription drugs in their system decreased 6.37 percent. The number of people with prescription drugs in their system, which may or may not have led to their death, dropped 2.8 percent.

According to a Department of Law Enforcement news release, the drugs that caused the most deaths in Florida last year were benzodiazepines, oxycodone, methadone, cocaine, ethyl alcohol, morphine, hydrocodone and diazepam.

Web-Based Recovery Study Runs Through October 31

By Join Together Staff | October 25, 2012 | Leave a comment | Filed inRecovery

A web-based survey for people in recovery from an alcohol or drug problem will be available until October 31. The “What is Recovery” study is funded by the National Institutes of Health. The researchers hope the study will help dispel the stigma that those in recovery face.

The goal of the “What is Recovery” study is to develop a definition of recovery that reflects the wide range of people who say they are in recovery, or recovered, or used to have a problem but do not now, or are in medication-assisted recovery. More than 8,700 people have completed the survey so far.

The first part of the study included 238 people who completed online surveys, and 54 who completed in-depth telephone interviews. The second phase of the study contains 47 possible definitions of recovery, which were developed based on the study’s first phase. The researchers hope to reach more than 10,000 people with Phase 2 of the study, to obtain as many perspectives on their definitions of recovery as possible.

The researchers hope to answer questions such as whether recovery requires abstinence, whether someone can be “in recovery” if they are still drinking or using, and if recovery is more than just being clean and sober.

People participating in the study, conducted by the Alcohol Research Group, do not have to provide any personal identifying information. The researchers will not be able to identify participants. Answers to the web survey are confidential. To participate, you must be at least 18, and consider yourself as being in recovery from an alcohol or drug problem. Visit the “What is Recovery” website to take the online survey.

Doctor Visits for Drug or Alcohol Use Increased 70% Between 2001 and 2009

By Join Together Staff | October 23, 2012 | 1 Comment | Filed in Alcohol,Drugs, Healthcare, Prescription Drugs, Research & Treatment


The number of doctor visits for substance use disorders increased 70 percent among American adults between 2001 and 2009, according to a new study. The increase appears to be driven in large part by prescription drug abuse, the researchers said.

The availability of effective treatment also contributed to the increase, lead researcher Dr. Joseph W. Frank of Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston told Reuters. Frank estimated that 22.5 million Americans are dependent on alcohol or drugs.

The researchers analyzed data from two national surveys of physician visits, and found the number of visits involving drug or alcohol abuse or addiction rose from 10.6 million between 2001 and 2003, to 18 million between 2007 and 2009. The number of visits involving a diagnosis of opioid abuse rose almost sixfold, from 772,000 to 4.4 million.

“This finding is consistent with trends in substance use disorder-related utilization at the nation’s community health centers and emergency departments and, sadly, use of its morgues,” the researchers wrote in the Archives of Internal Medicine.

The study found the number of people prescribed medications to treat substance use disorders during doctors’ visits rose from 643,000 to 3.9 million during the study period. Buprenorphine and methadone were the most commonly prescribed medications. Talk therapy was used in about 25 million patients during the same period.

Hustlers Anonymous

Money, women, guns—these are what make a street drug dealer's life so addictive. But a ghetto version of a 12-step group is offering these young men a future other than death or prison.

By Jeff Deeney  The Fix

10/14/12

“Hustlers Anonymous is a fellowship of members whose lives have become unmanageable due to the choices they have made. The only requirement for membership is the desire for a better life and a willingness to take certain suggestions. Many of us have experienced negative consequences as a result of our hustler lifestyle: incarceration, broken families, police harassment, and near death experiences. Due to the lure of the streets we have time and again chosen the seemingly easy way out over our mothers, children and our own personal freedom. If you are tired of handing over control of your life to the system, missing your children grow up, or just ready to get out of the game, then you are ready to take certain steps. Some of these may seem hard but if you are ready to gain true respect for yourself, from your family and from your community, then you are well on your way.”

So goes the Hustlers Anonymous preamble—read, in traditional 12-step style, at the start of every meeting. Printed on unadorned white paper, blotted with fingerprints photocopied into the page, it looks a mess because it’s been passed around, copied and recopied so many times. In fact, since the group’s start early this year, copies of the original have circulated to most of the drug treatment sites in Philadelphia’s poorest neighborhoods. Following the preamble are 10 steps:

“1. We admitted that our values have become distorted and that the streets is a game you cannot win.

2. We came to believe that the power to change is within us.

3. Made a decision to embrace the concept of faith.

4. Made a searching and fearless moral inventory of ourselves.

5. We were entirely ready to give up our old behaviors and attitudes.

6. We admitted to ourselves the harm we caused others.

7. Made a decision to be part of the solution and not part of the problem.

8. Made a commitment to be honest in all our affairs, except when to do so would cause injury to others.

9. Continued to work the concept of faith in our daily lives.

10. Having gotten out of the game and experienced a productive life we pass on what we have learned.”

The origins of Hustlers Anonymous are murky, but its use spread quickly across Philadelphia this year because it helps solve an increasingly common problem facing urban drug-treatment sites: What to do with drug dealers stipulated into the substance-abuse treatment system by the courts? As probation offices and diversion programs use the drug treatment system more heavily as a way to keep nonviolent offenders with drug arrests out of prison, counselors find themselves saddled with a growing number of clients who refuse to identify as addicts and insist on qualifying themselves as hustlers.

The reach of courts into the clinical realm of drug treatment is a long, hotly debated trend with armies of friends and foes. President Barack Obama strongly backs these initiatives, claiming that they improve public health while monitoring public safety. The White House Office of National Drug Control Policy’s Criminal Justice site details the broad array of pretrial and post-conviction drug treatment–related interventions it supports. On the opposing side, there’s a chorus of voices arguing, for example, that there’s little evidence for the efficacy of such interventions and that courts shouldn’t intervene in issues of public health. Some critics say that such tinkering with the justice system is another way to not admit defeat in the War on Drugs.

Regardless of its benefits or harms, the justice system’s change in focus from incarceration to treatment has inarguably—and drastically—altered the landscape of substance abuse treatment, as users who don’t fit a typical addict profile wind up in outpatient groups. In urban settings like Philadelphia, this new type of treatment consumer is a self-described “hustler.” He’s young and typically black or Latino, was caught selling drugs like heroin and crack, and reports using heavy daily amounts of marijuana and frequently other popular hustler drugs like Xanax (an anti-anxiety prescription drug), wet (the anesthetic PCP) or codeine cough syrup.

Hustling is his best opportunity to make a decent living, the sole job available that he finds appealing, and an essential part of his personal identity.

According to treatment sites, hustlers meet the clinical definition of a substance abuser necessary to fit the criteria for placement in an outpatient group—low level, inexpensive care. And some hustlers do self-report consuming mind-boggling amounts of less harmful drugs like marijuana while working the corner: 20 or 30 blunts a day is not uncommon. But hustlers unequivocally do not see themselves as drug addicts; in fact, they find the “drug addict” description insulting. On the streets there is a social hierarchy, and those who run the corners are locally viewed as on top, those coming to the corner to cop drugs as on bottom. Hustlers resent even being near someone they used to serve.

This new mix of weed-smoking, pill-popping, crack-selling hustlers sent to groups mingling with hardcore addicts who came voluntarily off the streets has created other complications which in retrospect seem obvious and unavoidable.

“I ain’t real proud of this,” admits Fredo, a 24-year-old Latino from the Badlands barrio in North Philly who has since left the game. “I stood right outside the [drug treatment] place and served everyone in my group. I knew that wasn’t right—honestly, I regret that. Those people were trying to get help. But what was I supposed to do to eat?”

Fredo says that he was placed in drug treatment by the courts because he tested positive for Percocet and Xanax after being arrested for selling heroin. Taking pills was moderately problematic for him, he says, and impacted his hustling judgment in a way that led to his getting arrested (“I got sloppy”). But he doesn’t identify as an addict and had no difficulty abstaining from drugs in order to complete probation. But abstaining from selling drugs was another matter.

“My probation officer had me on house arrest so I was off the corner, out of the game,” Fredo says. “I was looking for work but I couldn’t find anything. How was I supposed to support my kids? So I worked where I could to make a little bread, which was on break outside [the treatment facility] during group.”

Treatment sites of course know about their potentially toxic new mix of sellers and users, and some have tried to use it as an opportunity to innovate. They are most often creating separate tracts of curriculum for court-stipulated participants, where the focus is less about drug addiction and more about the hustling lifestyle. While no hustler will admit to being a drug addict, nearly all will admit to being “addicted” to the lifestyle. Once the program is overhauled to become truly relevant to them, hustlers suddenly become very active in the treatment process.

Please Help Olivias Village

About

It takes a whole village to raise a child and it is time for my family to ask the village for help.

Description

Since December 1st my daughter Olivia has been in a long-term residential treatment center. The emotional and financial toll has been overwhelming and I am reaching out to ask everyone to help us through this!

HOW CAN YOU HELP?
We will be planning a series of benefit fundraisers including some concerts and guest workshops. Please attend the events that interest you, and pass the word along.

I am still looking for anyone who can offer their creative talents or professional services, assist with planning or running events, or even prepare some catering or bake sale items to offer at them.

I am so grateful to the community for all the support and love you have given in so many forms (listening, rides to the airport, financial support, childcare for Elisha, dinners together). Thank you!!!

E-mail me at maryhart@msn.com

Keswick New Jersey

About
The purpose of America's Keswick is to model and teach Biblical victorious living in Christ Jesus, to provide an environment in which Biblical life transformation takes place and to foster active personal involvement in the local church.
Mission America's Keswick is multi-generational, cross-cultural ministry where biblical teaching leads to deeper personal relationships with Jesus Christ and transforms lives. We serve people with excellence through addiction recovery, conferences, retreats and outreach.
General InformationAmerica's Keswick is a ministry that teaches and models the Victorious Christian Life message through Addiction Recovery for men and their loved ones, through Christian Conferences, Concerts, and Events, through Training and Resources, and by providing rental facilities and service to other like-minded organizations.







601 Route 530
Whiting, New Jersey 08759-3599


Phone (800) 453-7942
Email info@americaskeswick.org
Website http://www.americaskeswick.org

“Love Hormone” Oxytocin May Block Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms

By Join Together Staff | October 19, 2012 | 1 Comment | Filed in Alcohol,Research & Treatment


The hormone oxytoxin, known as the “love hormone” because of its role in social bonding, may help block symptoms of alcohol withdrawal, a new small study suggests.

Previous studies conducted in rodents have shown the hormone can block alcohol and heroin withdrawal symptoms, Time reports. If given before someone becomes addicted, oxytocin might prevent the development of tolerance and dependence, according to the magazine.

The new study, published in Alcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research, included 11 people whose alcoholism produced withdrawal symptoms that were not severe enough to cause potentially life-threatening seizures.

During detox, people with alcoholism generally are given benzodiazepines, such as Valium (diazepam) or Ativan (lorazepam), to relieve withdrawal symptoms, including seizures. People who do not suffer seizures are given the drugs as needed, so the amount of benzodiazepines they take can be used as a measure of how severe their withdrawal is.

The study found participants given oxytocin through a nasal spray needed almost five times less lorazepam, compared with those given a placebo medication. They also experienced less anxiety. Oxytocin itself is not addictive, the article notes.

The researchers say their study is the first evidence that oxytocin may block alcohol withdrawal symptoms in humans. They add the results should be considered very preliminary, because the study was so small.

NEXT G.R.A.S.P. (Grief Recovery after a substance passing) GROUP SUPPORT IN BUCKS COUNTY

NEXT G.R.A.S.P. (Grief Recovery after a substance passing) GROUP SUPPORT
meeting:

Thursday, OCTOBER 4, 2012.
Meetings: First (1) and Third (3) THURSDAY of each month

Location: Southern Bucks Community Center @ Pro Act facility 1286 Veterans Highway Bristol Pa 19007
Time: 7:OO - 8:30 pm
Dave Chairperson: Newcomers- Open Forum

Contact: Barbara Hentosh (C) 215-264-6768 H) 215-428-1637
Pro-Act 215-788-3738 dial 0 INFORMATION
e-mail: graspbuckscounty@gmail.com
FYI: Please forward to anyone who may have lost a loved one to USE, MISUSE OR ABUSE of addiction.

HOPE FOR ADDICTION IN BUCKS COUNTY RECOVERY EVENT

COACH BINGO!!

Mark your calendars for Coach Bingo to be held Friday, November 2, 2012. Doors open 6:00pm Bingo begins at 7:00pm. Tickets $30.00 (Proceeds benefit the Hope for Addiction Foundation and St. Joseph's the Worker)

Admission fee includes 1 game packet for entire night (15 games)

Additional cards and 50/50’s will be available for purchase throughout the evening. Desserts, coffee and tea provided. BYOB permitted. Additional refreshments available for purchase.

Tickets are available at St. Joseph the Worker Rectory or call 215-547-5456

DEA Focuses on Drug Distributors in Fight Against Painkiller Abuse

By Join Together Staff | October 18, 2012 | Leave a comment | Filed inGovernment, Legal, Prescription Drugs & Prevention


The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is focusing on drug distributors in an effort to fight prescription painkiller abuse, The New York Times reports. In the past, the agency has tried tactics including arresting doctors and closing pharmacies.

Drug distributors are now trying to limit their liability by monitoring their distribution pipeline more closely, and refusing to supply some pharmacy customers.

Earlier this year, the DEA charged drug distributor Cardinal Healthand four pharmacies with violating their licenses to sell controlled drugs. The DEA said Cardinal had an unusually high number of shipments of controlled painkillers to four pharmacies. The agency suspended Cardinal’s controlled substance license at its distribution center in Lakeland, Florida. The center serves 2,500 pharmacies in Florida, Georgia and South Carolina.

Cardinal no longer does business with a dozen pharmacies in at least four states, the article notes. Some of the drugstores unsuccessfully sued the company to resume shipments. Cardinal’s Chairman and Chief Executive, George S. Barrett, said the company has strengthened the criteria it uses in deciding whether to sell painkillers to a pharmacy. “We had a strong antidiversion system in place, but no system is perfect,” he told the newspaper. Cardinal has created a committee that evaluates pharmacies that order large amounts of narcotic drugs.

In August, Amerisource Bergen, the third-largest drug distributor in the United States, received subpoenas from the DEA and federal prosecutors seeking information on how the company monitors for possible diversions of opioids and other drugs with high potential for abuse.

Recovery Connections Reaching The World

You were part of something incredible this month, Joseph. More than 4,000 people pledged to do their part to end medicine abuse over the last month. Even more people had their eyes opened to this serious issue through our live events and online chats. In short, you helped us spark a movement to tackle one of the worst public health problems in America today. Don't waste this opportunity. We need to spread this campaign to the rest of your neighborhood. Download the Parents360 Rx Action Toolkit, part of our acclaimed PACT360 drug awareness program, and bring our movement to your community. Ever since we began PACT360, it's changed towns and cities nationwide. It's an integrated series of programs that bring together parents, police, community leaders and everyday citizens. The Rx Action Toolkit is one of PACT360's most successful features. The Toolkit is free, and it features everything you need to turn your concern into action. You can use it to make a short, effective presentation at your school, workplace, faith group or almost anywhere else. You've already shown how much you're willing to help. So be a leader -- you'll save lives, and we'll be here to help you do it. Get the Parents360 Rx Action Toolkit right now: http://my.drugfree.org/parents360-rx-action-toolkit Thank you for helping make The Medicine Abuse Project such a success. Best, Steve Pasierb President & CEO The Partnership at Drugfree.org

While Illicit Drug Use Decreases in Cities, Prescription Drug Abuse Climbs

By Join Together Staff | October 16, 2012 | Leave a comment | Filed inCommunity Related, Drugs & Prescription Drugs


While illicit drug use has decreased in most large American cities, prescription drug abuse has climbed, according to a new study.

The study evaluated emergency room visits related to drug abuse in 11 major metropolitan areas, and some smaller urban areas, from 2007 to 2009. The researchers found illicit drug use accounted for more emergency department visits than prescription drug abuse in 2007 (26 percent vs. 20 percent), for all metropolitan areas except Phoenix.

From 2007 to 2009, emergency departments reported an 8 percent drop in visits for illicit drug abuse, while visits for prescription drug abuse rose 2 percent, HealthDay reports. In 2009, illicit drug use accounted for 28 percent of ER visits, while prescription drug abuse accounted for 22 percent.

The findings were presented this week at the annual meeting of the American Society of Anesthesiologists.

“The harsh reality is prescription drug abuse has become a growing problem in our society,” study author Dr. Asokumar Buvanendran of Rush University Medical Center in Chicago, said in a news release. “We hope the results of this study will aid physicians in effectively treating patients who struggle with prescription drug abuse, as well as encourage widespread patient education about the safe use, storage and disposal of medications.”

City of Angels of NJ upcoming events

Don't Miss These Events!

Annual COA Halloween Party Saturday, October 27, 8 pm - midnight Don't miss this ghoulishly great Halloween Bash! There will be music, dancing, food and tons of fun. Come in costume or just come as your scary self! All are welcome. To watch a video of last year's Halloween party, featuring Redneck rocking the dance floor in a print dress & high heels,click here.For more details, contact CityofAngelsNJ@Hotmail.com. COA Thanksgiving Dinner Sunday, November 18, 4 pm - 7 pm  Celebrate everything we have to be thankful for at this bountiful dinner at the Dwier Center with your COA family! COA will roast the turkeys....just bring a dish to share or a few good jokes to tell! There'll be plenty of food, fun and good cheer. Live music will be provided by Facedown, a local band that is quickly building a big following. All are welcome. For more details, contact CityofAngelsNJ@Hotmail.com.

Florida Needs More Resources to Help Babies Exposed to Opioids, Experts Say

By Join Together Staff | October 15, 2012 | 2 Comments | Filed in Addiction,Community Related, Drugs, Parenting & Youth

Florida needs more resources to help the many newborns exposed to opioids, experts told a statewide task force. They said the number of such babies far exceeds the number of treatment beds available for mothers addicted to prescription drugs, and their newborns.

For example, in Duval County, Florida, 113 babies were born with neonatal withdrawal syndrome in 2010, but only 13 treatment beds were available, the Sun-Sentinel reports. These babies suffer symptoms of withdrawal, including shaking, inconsolable crying, skin rashes, vomiting and diarrhea.

Florida’s Targeted Outreach for Pregnant Women Act is severely underfunded, with just $1 million allocated, according to state Representative Dana Young, a member of the Statewide Task Force on Prescription Drug Abuse & Newborns. The task force was formed by Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi. It is charged with defining the severity of the problem and devising solutions.

“The task force will draft a recommended policy designed to address the problem that will be sent to the legislature after the first of the year and will hopefully serve as a model for the rest of the country,” Bondi said.

Earlier this year, hospitals on the west coast of Florida reported a rise in the number of newborns exposed to opioids.

Last Door recovery Society

About
Join discussions or simply just let people know you support us, thanks
Company OverviewLAST DOOR RECOVERY SOCIETY has been providing addiction treatment and support services since 1984. Last Door has two core programs = Last Door Youth Program 14 - 18 years old and Last Door Adult Program 19 and over. as well as several adjunct programs including Last Door' Family Program.

Our core philosophy of providing abstinence based quality treatment has remained intact over the years. Level and types of services have increased over the years as we respond to community needs. Our programs continue to grow ever year, thank you for your support.

Description
LAST DOOR YOUTH PROGRAM provides long term residential treatment for male youth 14 to 18 years. We provide a healthy environment to halt the development of addictive behaviors and assist the youth to gain self esteem and a healthy peer support network.

LAST DOOR ADULT PROGRAM provides long term residential treatment for males 18 and older. We provide an opportunity for them to overcome unproducti
ve habits and gain new attitudes, better values and a renewed zest for life.

LAST DOOR FAMILY PROGRAMS help families get the knowledge, skills and and support that enables them to deal productively with their family members’ addiction and recovery. A sense of freedom and security is gained through interactions with other families who are dealing with the same dilemmas. Program provides services for couples, parents, co-parenting, women and peer support groups.

LAST DOOR TRANSITIONAL LIVING PROGRAMS provides residents with transitional living residences and access to a large Alumni base that are part of a thriving recovery community. Giving residents the optimum opportunity to maintain long term recovery using a total abstinence model.

Please visit www.lastdoor.org for more information about Last Door and donate to the "Continuing our Legacy" Campaign.
Location 323 8th Street, New Westminster, British Columbia V3M 3R3


Contact Info
Phone (888) 525-9771
Email publicrelations@lastdoor.org
Website http://www.lastdoor.org

Injecting Painkiller Opana Can Lead to Serious Blood Disorder, FDA Warns

By Join Together Staff | October 12, 2012 | 1 Comment | Filed in Prescription Drugs


Injecting the painkiller Opana ER can lead to a serious blood disorder that can result in kidney failure or death, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced Thursday.

Opana is an opioid that contains the ingredient oxymorphone,Reuters reports. The drug is made by Endo Pharmaceuticals. Injecting Opana can cause thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura, which causes clots to form in small blood vessels throughout the body. These clots limit or block blood flow to the organs, the article explains.

Opana ER is a pill meant to be taken orally. It causes the blood clotting disorder only when it is abused by being crushed and injected intravenously, according to the FDA. The pill has an extended-release design, but crushing it releases the drug all at once.

Law enforcement officials are alarmed by the rise of Opana abuse, which they said started after OxyContin was changed in late 2010 to make that drug more difficult to snort or inject for a heroin-like high. OxyContin is a brand of oxycodone.

Opana abuse can be deadly because it is more potent, per milligram, than OxyContin and users who are not familiar with how strong it is may be vulnerable to overdosing.

Endo Pharmaceuticals has announced it is reformulating the drug. The pill will be more difficult to crush, and will turn gooey if liquid is added to it. Opana is prescribed for chronic back pain, as well as pain related to cancer and osteoarthritis.

Tennessee Officials Study Drug-Testing Programs for Welfare Recipients in Other States

By Join Together Staff | October 11, 2012 | Leave a comment | Filed inCommunity Related, Drugs & Legislation

Tennessee state officials are studying drug-testing programs for welfare recipients in six other states, as they shape their own program, The Tennessean reports.

Earlier this year, the state legislature passed a law that mandates drug testing for welfare recipients. The state’s Department of Human Services has until January 2014 to finalize a plan. Department Commissioner Raquel Hatter reported to two legislative committees that her agency is studying similar programs in Arizona, Florida, Georgia, Missouri, Oklahoma and Utah, to gain insight into how they have implemented their policy, and any obstacles they have faced.

The Tennessee law requires drug testing for any welfare applicant with a prior drug conviction or anyone who raises suspicion based on a screening. Human services officials must consult with drug treatment experts to set up a screening program to establish reasonable cause for drug testing of welfare applicants.

Arizona’s program, in place since 2009, requires adult applicants to fill out a three-question statement on illegal drug use. They must submit to drug testing if their answers provide a reasonable cause. In Florida, 108 adults out of 4,000 applying for welfare benefits who took a drug test failed. Florida’s law has been challenged in federal court.

Georgia has passed a drug-testing law for welfare recipients, but put implementation on hold until the Florida case has been resolved, the article notes.

Under all six state laws, a person who fails a drug test is ineligible for benefits for a defined period of time, between one month and three years. In most of the states there is a provision that reduces that period if the person enters a drug rehabilitation program, according to the newspaper.
By Join Together Staff | October 11, 2012 | Leave a comment | Filed inCommunity Related, Drugs & Legislation

Tennessee state officials are studying drug-testing programs for welfare recipients in six other states, as they shape their own program, The Tennessean reports.

Earlier this year, the state legislature passed a law that mandates drug testing for welfare recipients. The state’s Department of Human Services has until January 2014 to finalize a plan. Department Commissioner Raquel Hatter reported to two legislative committees that her agency is studying similar programs in Arizona, Florida, Georgia, Missouri, Oklahoma and Utah, to gain insight into how they have implemented their policy, and any obstacles they have faced.

The Tennessee law requires drug testing for any welfare applicant with a prior drug conviction or anyone who raises suspicion based on a screening. Human services officials must consult with drug treatment experts to set up a screening program to establish reasonable cause for drug testing of welfare applicants.

Arizona’s program, in place since 2009, requires adult applicants to fill out a three-question statement on illegal drug use. They must submit to drug testing if their answers provide a reasonable cause. In Florida, 108 adults out of 4,000 applying for welfare benefits who took a drug test failed. Florida’s law has been challenged in federal court.

Georgia has passed a drug-testing law for welfare recipients, but put implementation on hold until the Florida case has been resolved, the article notes.

Under all six state laws, a person who fails a drug test is ineligible for benefits for a defined period of time, between one month and three years. In most of the states there is a provision that reduces that period if the person enters a drug rehabilitation program, according to the newspaper.

Medicine Abuse drug guide for parents

As a parent who has lost a son to medicine abuse, the past couple of weeks have been truly moving. The Partnership at Drugfree.org showed me some of the stories people shared about medicine abuse over this past week, and as a parent who has experienced the epidemic's effects firsthand, they really resonated with me. In 2004, my son Mark died from an accidental overdose of prescription drugs. We found a bag of loose pills in his room -- none of the drugs had been prescribed for him, or for anyone else in the family for that matter. I wish that I could tell Mark what I've learned about the dangers of abusing prescription drugs, but it's too late. At a time when most of life's experiences should lie just ahead, his life ended and I will always wonder if I could have saved him. Now that I've gotten involved with The Partnership, I believe that their resources may have provided me the information I so desperately needed. Read the medicine abuse drug guide and arm yourself with information you need to fight this epidemic at home: http://my.drugfree.org/the-drug-guide The guide can help you learn the signs and symptoms commonly experienced by people abusing the three main types prescriptions drugs -- pain relievers, stimulants, and depressants. It's crucial for us as parents to talk with our kids about the dangers of abusing medicine and to make sure that the medicines in our homes are secure at all times. Please do this before it's too late. Educate yourself by looking at the medicine abuse drug guide now. It could be a lifesaver. http://my.drugfree.org/the-drug-guide Thank you, Phil Bauer Parent Advisory Board Member P.S. If you're feeling overwhelmed with your child's drug problem and would like to talk to someone, you can call The Partnership's Parents Toll-Free Helpline at  1-855-378-4373 or get more information now: http://my.drugfree.org/if-you-need-help

“Red Ribbon Week” October 23-31 Raises Awareness About Drug Prevention

By Join Together Staff | October 10, 2012 | Leave a comment | Filed inCommunity Related, Drugs, Marketing And Media, Parenting, Prevention &Youth

The 27th annual “Red Ribbon Week,” October 23-31, will raise awareness about drug prevention around the country. Families can get involved this year by entering a contest to promote awareness in their neighborhoods, and win a drug prevention grant for their children’s school.

The week was created after parents, students and teachers began wearing red ribbons in commemoration of the 1985 murder of Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) agent Kiki Camarena.

The National Family Partnership has announced a Red Ribbon Week contest that families can enter to win a $1,000 grant for their school, and a new iPad for their home. The DEA is co-sponsoring the contest. To participate, families and students are invited to decorate the outside of their homes with the message, “The Best Me is Drug Free.” They can take a photo with the family and their Red Ribbon Week decoration, and upload it towww.redribbon.org/contest or www.facebook.com/RedRibbonWeekby November 2nd. To upload the photos, you must be at least 18 years old.

Voting for entries will take place November 2-16 atwww.redribbon.org/vote. There will be 10 winners from across the United States, who will be announced at events at their schools in December.

Free Family Addiction Education program

CONTACT:

Noni West, strategic marketing coordinator Cathie Cush

PRO-ACT C2 Communications

215-345-6644, ext. 3111 215-579-2076

nwest@councilsepa.org CathieCush@comcast.net

Beverly J. Haberle, executive director

The Council of Southeast Pennsylvania, Inc.

215-345-6644

bhaberle@councilsepa.org

PRO-ACT Family Addiction Education Program helps families address drug and alcohol addiction

Next free sessions start Nov. 1, 6 and 7 at various locations in five counties
Each month PRO-ACT (Pennsylvania Recovery Organization–Achieving Community Together) hosts a free Family Addiction Education Program to help individuals and families recognize and address an addiction problem in a spouse, parent, child or other loved one. Led by trained volunteers who have been in the same situation, these information and support programs begin the first week of each month and run one evening a week for three consecutive weeks. Each session lasts two hours.



Programs are offered at several locations throughout the five-county southeast Pennsylvania region:

· Tuesdays—From 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. in Media and Northeast Philadelphia.

· Wednesdays—From 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. in Pottstown; from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. in North Philadelphia; and from 7 p.m.to 9 p.m. in West Chester.

· Thursdays—From 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. in Northern Liberties; 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. in Bristol and Colmar



Sessions are free and confidential—first names only. Pre-registration is required. To register, call 800-221-6333, weekdays 9 a.m. through 5 p.m., or visit www.proact.org and click the Family Addiction Education Program link.

Trents Lighthouse Ohio

About
Transitional Living for Men in Recovery - Cincinnati, Ohio
Description
For More Information Please see:

www.trentslighthouse.com

Facebook: Trents Lighthouse


Contact Information for Trent's Lighthouse:

Kim Trent (513) 546-5151
Owner/Operator
trentslighthouse@aol.com
kimtrent@trentslighthouse.com

Jack Whittle (513) 526-2587
General Manager

General InformationTransitional Living for Men

Providing a safe, sober-living environment for men who are in recovery from
addiction and/or alcoholism.

Located in Northside



4576 Hamilton Ave
Cincinnati, Ohio 45223
Always open

Phone (513) 546-5151
Email trentslighthouse@aol.com
Website http://www.trentslighthouse.com

Recovery Revolution Inc. PA.

About
We are a charitable non-profit premiere licensed treatment facility that treats individuals and families that are impacted by addiction.
MissionIt is the mission of Recovery Revolution Inc. to promote healthy, responsible, and individualized treatment for addictions through programs responsive to family and community needs.
Company Overview
Recovery Revolution, Inc. is the only licensed drug and alcohol treatment center in the Slate Belt Region of PA. We offer outpatient and intensive outpatient services for adolescents and adults as well as family members of our clients. RR, Inc has group counseling on different days and times to accommodate many different schedules. We also offer an outpatient program in Colonial Academy, which
is an alternative school in Wind Gap, PA. We offer sober activities and events to benefit our clients and educate the community as a whole. Recovery Revolution Inc. is a non-profit organization with the mission to promote healthy, responsible, and individualized treatment for addictions through programs responsive to family and community needs. Please call for any additional information or check out our website.
DescriptionWe accept individuals with or without insurance. We believe that addiction impacts the body, mind, and spirit. Therefore, treatment must address each of these areas to be successful in the recovery of the whole person. Call today and take the first step towards a new life.
General Information1 out of every 8 Americans will have a significant addiction in their lifetime. 1 in every 4 Americans are impacted by a close family member or significant other by addiction.



Opened November 22, 2005
Awards 2010 Most Innovative Program (Magellan Health Services)
Best Outpatient Treatment Center (Our Alumni Association, Our Staff, and Many Community Members)
Hours

Mon - Fri: 9:00 am - 8:00 pm

Products Recovery Revolution provides a level of care assessment by a Master’s level clinician to indicate addictions treatment needs. We accept adolescents and adults for individual, group, and family sessions ranging from 1 hour to 9 hours a week of treatment, dependent on the individuals needs. We offer ancillary services such as a educational support group for families and loved ones of individuals struggling with addiction, free educational seminars, 12 hour DUI Class, Sober Activities with our active Alumni. Recovery Revolution also provides a school based addictions treatment program at Colonial Academy, in Wind Gap, PA. We provide 1-5 hours of treatment a week for student participants.

We provide treatment to people that "for profit" facilities turn away. We are the only treatment that offer indigent people for addictions treatment within a 25 mile radius. We average about 100 clients that we see on a weekly basis and about half of them are under the age of 25.

Recovery Revolution holds an annual fundraiser so that we can continue to take clients that are indigent. Part of our mission is to continue to provide life changing treatment to people based on clinical necessity, not financial status. This money is used to help pay for client's that can not afford treatment.



109 Broadway
Bangor, Pennsylvania 18013
Today 9:00 am - 8:00 pm

Phone (610) 599-7700
Email info@recoveryrevolution.org
Website http://www.recoveryrevolution.org

Milestone House Dover NJ

About
www.themilestonehouse.com
DescriptionSober Living Facility
General Information
The Milestone House is a premier Sober Living Facility for Men and Women who want to make recovery a way of life. We are proud to be a leader in the industry and currently have three sites located in historic Dover, New Jersey.

Our residents typically have completed some level of structured treatment prior to entering our house. At Milestone there is opportunity to continue growth in recovery, li
ving in “real” life as responsible adults. All residents must be drug and alcohol free before entering.

The “recovery community” is very supportive of us and, overall, our residents have been very successful at remaining drug and alcohol free. We create an opportunity where one can live “real life” and have the extra support that they may have been lacking during previous attempts to stay clean and sober. Men and women ages 18 and up are welcome here.

Willingness and taking action is the fundamental expectation we embody. A large percentage of our residents have multiple years of recovery, highlighting the essence of what true Sober Living encompasses. It has been proven to be beneficial to mix residents who are new in recovery with others that have multiple years clean and sober.

We offer many amenities and comforts, but what are truly priceless are the energy of our environment and the spirit of love, tolerance, helpfulness, serenity and usefulness; which absolutely results from the working and re-working of the 12-steps.

You will be encouraged to join us at all of our on-site, solution-based meetings and workshops and to truly experience a “new freedom and happiness”.





60 N. Sussex Street
Dover, New Jersey 07801


Phone (973) 442-4600
Email info@themilestonehouse.com
Website http://www.themilestonehouse.com

Serenity Solutions Philadelphia

About
Offering Individual, Group, and Couples Counseling, Interventions and Clinical Supervision
DescriptionHelping people find peace and serenity in their stressful lives by teaching them how to change thoughts and behaviors and be in the present moment.

Specializing in Anxiety Management, Anger Management and Recovery from Addictions.



135 South 19th Street, Suite 250
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19103


Phone (215) 285-1084
Email alisa@SerenitySolutionsTherapy.com
Website http://www.SerenitySolutionsTherapy.com

Do you know an inspiring youth coach?

,

Do you know an inspiring youth coach? How about a teen with excellent sportsmanship?

The Partnership at Drugfree.org, in conjunction with Major League Baseball Charities, is celebrating extraordinary individuals on and off the playing field who embody the spirit of teamwork and healthy, drug-free competition.

Nominate your community’s youth sports heroes for the third annual Commissioner’s Play Healthy Awards contest! The awards are an extension of both organizations’ comprehensive efforts, including the Play Healthy website, to educate families on the risks of steroids and performance-enhancing substances.

One winning youth coach and one student athlete will receive prizes, including a trip for themselves and one special guest to New York City. They will also receive:
Two tickets each to The Partnership at Drugfree.org’s annual Winter Wish Gala at Gotham Hall on December 4, 2012, where they will be honored;
A $1,000 gift card to a sporting goods store;
A commemorative plaque presented at the gala; and
The opportunity to be featured prominently on drugfree.org.

We’re taking nominations now at drugfree.org/playhealthy.

Get involved with the Commissioner’s Play Healthy Awards contest today!

We look forward to recognizing our nation’s best youth sports leaders.

Thanks,

Courtney Gallo
Youth Sports Advocate
The Partnership at Drugfree.org

P.S. There are only 2 weeks left for your chance to win a free trip to NYC!

Please note: A panel of judges will determine the winners by reviewing all nominees who demonstrate their commitment to fair, drug-free play and an overall healthy lifestyle. Additionally, the judges will evaluate the nominee’s commitment to leadership, sportsmanship and encouragement of others on and off the field. The deadline to enter is Friday, October 26, 2012.

Teenager undergoes surgery after drinking liquid nitrogen in cocktail

Police investigating after 18-year-old suffers perforated stomach during night out with friends in Lancashire.

Peter Walker
The Guardian, Sunday 7 October 2012 13.16 EDT
A teenager has undergone emergency surgery after drinking a cocktail containing liquid nitrogen, according to police.

The 18-year-old from Heysham in Lancashire reported feeling breathless after drinking the liquid during a night out with friends on Thursday, Lancashire police said in a brief statement.

She was taken to Lancaster Royal Infirmary and diagnosed with a perforated stomach. Doctors performed emergency surgery to remove a section of her stomach, thought necessary to save her life. The teenager was in a serious but stable condition, police said.

A Lancashire police spokesman said the force was working with other agencies and the premises which sold the drink, which has not been identified. He said: "The investigation is still in its early stages and we are still interviewing witnesses to establish the full facts. The premises involved have fully co-operated with all agencies and have suspended drinks involving liquid nitrogen."

Liquid nitrogen has been used increasingly in recent years as a method for making increasingly elaborate cocktails, having first been pioneered in culinary use by the likes of Heston Blumenthal. The liquid version of the gas, which vapourises at a temperature of -196C, is an extremely effective way to flash-freeze substances and has a series of medical uses.

In cocktails and cooking it is simply a method – for example to chill glasses instantly with a crowd-pleasing waft of grey vapour, or to freeze ingredients – and should never be ingested, as this can cause serious cold burns.

FACING THE DRAGON

About
In "Facing the Dragon" by David Parnell and Amy Hammond Hagberg, readers will witness the agonizing metamorphosis of a good-looking high school athlete into a violent drug addict and then witness a second transformation during his amazing recovery.
Mission"Facing the Dragon - How a Desperate Act Pulled One Addict Out of Methamphetamine Hell" was written to warn people about the dangers of drugs to prevent future drug use and to give hope to those already addicted. It is also the intention of this book to open the eyes of the nonaddicted to the what is going on around them. There are addicted people who need help and neglected and abused children who need someone to be their voice.
Company OverviewFacing the Dragon was founded in 2004 by David and Amy Parnell. We focus on meth prevention through education and advocacy for drug endangered children.
Description
Book Description:

After more than twenty-three years addicted to methamphetamine and other drugs, David Parnell put an SKS assault rifle under his chin and pulled the trigger.

The blast took off half his face, yet somehow he survived. Following an afterlife experience where he briefly experienced heaven and hell, David woke up in the hospital, and he was changed forever, both physically and emot
ionally.

In Facing the Dragon, readers will witness the slow, agonizing metamorphosis of a good-looking high school athlete into a violent, drug-dealing, psychotic wife beater whose children were terrified of him. In graphic detail, they will relive his suicide attempts and then walk alongside him as he endures countless surgeries to reconstruct his decimated face and learns how to cope with his hideous disfigurement.

Now forty-three, Parnell is clean and sober and is making the most of the second chance he's been given, bringing his message about the dangers of meth and other drugs to schools, prisons, churches, and antidrug organizations around the world as a full-time lecturer.

By experiencing the nightmare of his life-—and his brief glimpse of hell--readers will find hope and healing when facing their own life-threatening dragons.



Contact Info
Website http://www.facingthedragon.org
http://www.hcibooks.com/p-4050-facing-th...
http://www.amyhagberg.com/

FDA Crushes Illegal Online Pharmacies

The latest campaign sees over 22,000 websites shut down, and 3.7 million doses of counterfeit meds seized.


The end of a golden age of drug scams?

By McCarton Ackerman

10/05/12 The Fix

The FDA is using the power of the Internet to fight illegal online pharmacies. The fifth International Internet Week of Action, held from September 25-October 2, is a global effort to fight the online sale and distribution of potentially counterfeit and illegal meds. Through the efforts of this campaign—joining forces with international regulatory and law enforcement agencies from around 100 countries—more than 18,000 illegal pharmacy websites were shut down and 3.7 million doses of counterfeit medicine seized. An additional 4,100 internet pharmacies were shut down yesterday and 79 arrests have been made. "Consumers in the United States and around the world face a real threat from Internet pharmacies that illegally sell potentially substandard, counterfeit, adulterated or otherwise unsafe medicines," says FDA commissioner Margaret Hamburg. "This week's efforts show that strong international enforcement efforts are required to combat this global public health problem." One of the targeted web pharmacies was Canadadrugs, which the FDA has previously warned and accused of selling drugs made by unapproved manufacturers for unapproved use, among other infractions. Canadadrugs was also accused of producing fake versions of the cancer drug Avastin that made their way into US oncology clinics, a claim the company denies. Other online pharmacies that were busted sold drugs including "Female Viagra"—which doesn't exist—and unapproved variations such as "Viagra Professional" and "Cialis Super Active."

Foot Prints in recovery NC.

About
http://FootprintsinRecovery.com/ Drug & Alcohol Recovery
MissionTo offer the most effective and affordable drug addiction treatment and recovery services, where you become part of a family and not just a number. We are the only drug rehab that offers a guarantee. For more information, please call 1-877-429-0713.
Description
Footprints in Recovery strives to encourage cost-effective growth and healing for those wishing to be free from chemical and substance abuse dependency. Our vision and philosophy as a recovery center is to provide a leading and healthy recovery environment for struggling addicts utilizing the 12 step principles with personalized programs to fit your specific needs. Our serene recovery location, on
the beautiful and historic Outer Banks in North Carolina, allows for the ideal setting in which to begin your recovery process. Your treatment will include group therapy on the beach and activities surrounded by stunning scenery to provide the perfect atmosphere for healing and recovery.

Footprints in Recovery has an amazing clinical staff who are licensed, certified, and trained to provide daily individualized care and treatment to each person suffering from addiction in a safe, private, confidential, empathetic and a well structured 12-step recovery home setting. Group therapy, psychoeducation, art and music, drum circles, exercise and meditation are just a few of the therapeutic modalities offered here. Additionally, we believe in the holistic approach and include kinetic, massage, and spirituality in your treatment. We believe in being a small individualized recovery center and provide an 8 bedroom home to assist in your healing process. We only accept 8 to 12 clients at a time, as we believe in focusing all of our time on each individual.

Footprints in Recovery realizes the importance of recovery as well as healing in other areas of your life, including your family. Our Licensed Family Therapist will walk with your family and assist in their healing by providing a family program. We offer specialized mental health treatment services, such as Psychiatrists and Doctors, to assist in helping with co-occuring disorders such as anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress syndrome.

Treatment

Footprints in Recovery is not like most other places that offer drug and alcohol rehab treatment. Here at Footprints you will be treated on a personal basis and not like a number. Drug addiction and alcohol abuse recovery is just a footstep away! We have magnificent sunny beaches, stunning scenery, and a fresh ocean breeze to provide the perfect atmosphere for healing and recovery. Activities incorporating the beach and the Pamlico Sound are included in the weekly routine of your program.




4721 N. Croatan Hightway
Kitty Hawk, North Carolina 27948


Phone (877) 429-0713
Email info@footprintsinrecovery.com
Website http://www.footprintsinrecovery.com

Celebrate Recovery Springfield Pa.

About
CR is a Christ Centered Recovery Program for anyone seeking freedom from lifes hurts, habits and hangups.
MissionTo provide a safe and confidential place, to focus on God's healing power through fellowship with others by working the 12 Biblical steps and the 8 beatitude principles.
DescriptionLIVES ARE CHANGING RIGHT HERE IN DELAWARE COUNTY!

We meet every Wednesday at 7:00 at Life Christian Fellowship, Springfield, PA.



607 W Springfield Rd
Springfield, Pennsylvania 19064


Phone (610) 328-2843
Email celebraterecovery@Lcfconnect.com
Website http://www.Lcfconnect.com/CR

SOBER ESCORTS INC.

Sober Escorts, Inc. offers a variety of services. These services are tailored to our client’s individual needs and goals. Listed below are the services which make up the bulk of Sober Escorts, Inc.’s business. If you happen to have a need or situation that is not covered in the following information, please feel free to contact us. We’re here to help. We care – We’ve been there!

We are a fee for service company, normally a flat per day fee, plus expenses. Our rates are very reasonable and affordable. Please contact us directly for specific pricing.

Click on any service category below to read more about that particular service:

To Treatment Transit

From Treatment to Extended Care TransitFrom Treatment to Home Transit

Sober Companion Services


There are 3 types of transit services; To Treatment, From Treatment to Extended Care, and From Treatment to Home. We know through experience, some of it our own, that airports and airplanes are difficult for some clients going to or coming from treatment. We know of individuals who “got lost” on their way to treatment and others who, upon discharge, were not able to make it home, or to their intended destination clean and sober. That first 24 to 72 hours outside of the structured treatment setting can be pretty rough.





Sober Escorts, Inc. works with families, interventionists, admission specialists, physicians, lawyers, personal managers, agents, anyone and everyone concerned with getting the client to treatment safely and expeditiously. We are familiar with the uncertainty, fear, and sense of aloneness inherent in the trip to treatment. A Sober Escort can be extremely helpful during this period. Many of our escorts have been through this themselves. They will lend their strength, encouragement, and support to the client in an effort to insure a successful trip to treatment.




Sober Escorts, Inc. works with anyone and everyone concerned with getting the client safely and expeditiously from primary treatment to an extended care facility, halfway house, or sober house. The majority of these prefer that the client come to them directly from the primary treatment facility. SEI will gladly accompany the client to any one of these destinations. Often times there are pressing matters at home that must be dealt with before moving on to the next destination. This can be a dangerous and stressful time. In this type of situation our escort will perform all the services covered in “From Treatment To Home”.




SEI assists with the transition from treatment back to everyday living. Our escort will meet the client at discharge, accompany them on their trip home, and within the first 24 hours after discharge, attend with them their first AA or NA meeting. We’ll continue with at least one meeting per day for the duration of our contract. We’ll go early and stay late, encourage them to meet people and get phone numbers. We’ll help them if necessary. Our escort will work with the client to make their home a clean and sober environment and we’ll do our utmost to see that the client follows through with their recommended discharge plan.








There are numerous situations where a newly recovering individual would find the support of a Sober Companion beneficial, business trips, social events, and weddings are but a few. A Sober Companion will lend strength and support in situations or circumstances that are deemed as perilous or stressful to the client.

Another Sober Companion service SEI offers relates directly to the film and entertainment industry. There are instances where a Sober Companion is required as a condition for cast insurance during the shooting of a film.

Via Telephone Voice: 352.236.0127 Toll Free: 877.218.3800Via Facsimile Fax: 352.438.1145Via Postal Mail Sober Escorts, Inc. 1187 SE 65th Circle Ocala, FL 34472 Via e-mail:Click here to send us an e-mail

m.

Little Hill Alina Lodge New Jersey

About
She never said it would be easy. She said it would be worth it.
Description“Gerry has inspired thousands of people to regain their lives and live sober. This is the greatest gift anyone can give. She has been a front-runner in the field of alcohol and drug treatment for many many years” Betty Ford commenting on Geraldine Owen Delaney
General Information
Alina Lodge, founded in 1957, is legendary for its no-nonsense structured approach to treatment. Scope: In furtherance of our mission and as an industry leader, we remain committed to the highest standards of student safety, quality care, individualized treatment, and positive results delivered in a cost effective manner. We offer a no-nonsense program with diverse counseling modalities. The integ
rated services, excellent staff and emphasis on the whole person—and the whole family—contribute to our successful track record with chronic relapsing individuals. Of course, one need not wait for chronic relapse to come to Alina Lodge. Addictive behavior, if untreated, has serious, often life-threatening consequences whether or not someone has had prior treatment. Therefore, Alina Lodge also offers a 90 day MINIMUM treatment program designed specifically for those who have had no prior residential treatment. The Lodge intends to remain a unique, innovative and effective clinical model for treating all of its clients as they begin their recovery from their addictive diseases. Specialties: Long term, low cost treatment for those suffering with the disease of addiction.





Basic Info
Joined Facebook 08/13/2009
Location Blairstown, New Jersey 07825


Contact Info
Phone (800) 575-6343
Website http://www.alinalodge.org

More Than 195,000 People Sign Online Petition Demanding Meth Testing of Homes

By Join Together Staff | October 4, 2012 | Leave a comment | Filed in Drugs

More than 195,000 people have signed an online petition demanding the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation, known as Freddie Mac, test the homes it sells for methamphetamine contamination.

The petition, on the website Change.org, was started by Jonathan Hankins, who purchased a home in Oregon from Freddie Mac that turned out to be a former meth lab, according to The Baltimore Sun.

“Within weeks of moving in, my wife, my two year old son, and I all started experiencing terrible dry-mouth and mouth sores,” Hankins wrote on the petition site. “Then we started to have trouble breathing, and I developed sinus headaches and nosebleeds. My home was contaminated with methamphetamine. But even worse, it was filled with traces of the toxic stew used to cook the drug.” Hankins says he and his family now have to pay their mortgage as well as rent on a second house where they have moved.

There were more than 10,000 clandestine meth lab incidents last year, according to the Drug Enforcement Administration. The article notes that thousands of homes nationwide may be contaminated by methamphetamine and the residue produced when the drug is made.

Time to speak up

Time to speak up, While last week's events for The Medicine Abuse Project were huge successes, guess what we're hearing in the national dialogue about medicine abuse? Silence -- it's just not getting the attention it deserves. But that just gets us even more fired up. By adding your voice, you can help us end this silence. Do you have a personal story about medicine abuse, about something that happened to either you or a loved one? Do you have questions or thoughts about the epidemic that you want to express? Share your story now and help us end the silence. No matter what you have to say, say it now and The Partnership at Drugfree.org will make sure others hear it. We're building a movement, and by speaking up and speaking together, we can make an impact. Raise your voice now: http://my.drugfree.org/raise-your-voice  Thank you, Marcia Taylor Senior Vice President of Government Affairs The Partnership at Drugfree.org

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