JOURNAL

 

On Saturday, July 10th, I turned 14.  14 years clean and sober.  It just doesn't seem possible.  I know it is because I've lived it and worked hard for it.  I really didn't do much for my special day this year.  I worked around the house and watched movies.  That's it.  This year was more of a *reflective year* than last year.  I took part of the day just to reflect on my past and think about my son.  It was a good day.  Next year will be very exciting as it will be the big 15 and maybe I will have a small party or something.  Some family and a few close friends.  Who knows.  I am just so grateful to be alive and well.  I truly believe that I am one of the miracles of sobriety. 

The weekend before that, July 3rd, I went to see *G* at the treatment center.  At that time, *G* had 15 days.  He was still a little shaky but he looked pretty good.  *J* and I went to a meeting they had at the house and then we stayed for a bit after.  The meeting was informative and the people seemed nice. The man that conducted the meeting was a little egotistical but maybe that's the way they do the meetings these days. I think *G* likes it there and he has made some friends too.  He gave us a tour and showed us the schedule of the residents.

As we were getting ready to leave, *G* walked us to the car.  He spoke to *J* about some of his meds being held at a local pharmacy due to lack of insurance.  He explained that they were holding his anxiety medication, his pain medication and his anti depressant.  *J* offered to go and pay for the medication so that he could have it and then she turned to ask me what I thought.  My opinion was and still is that he seemed to be doing okay and for now, until he is checked out again by a doctor after having some sober days, he should refrain from taking anything.  I feel that cleansing the system is the best thing.  Who knows, he might not need some or all of it after getting a few sober days.  Both of them agreed.  When *G* sees the doctor on Friday, July 16th, he will be able to make a better assessment as he will be drug and alcohol free. 

I found out last night that *G* will be released from the center this coming weekend.  The treatment center also has a residential program where the residents can go after their initial 30 day stay.  *G* will be going there.  He can stay there up to 2 years.  It sounds like a very good program.  Very structured.  Prior to knowing this, we (family) had gone to *G's* apartment and moved him out.  His family took the valuables and personal belongings and the rest went to charity.  Things seem to be looking up for *G*.  I will continue sending him my special thoughts and maybe we will even go to a meeting together. 

In the Journal Entry here, I talked about my son and school.  I received a call last week asking if I was okay with having the IEP this Friday, July 16th.  I agreed.  It was the principal of the school that called me and he asked that I relay all the information that I had given him and the other staff members to the IEP team.  I told him I didn't think I could do that as I was very upset when I spoke to them before.  He said it was important that they hear my thoughts and feelings on the subject.  I agreed with that and so I have put together little packets to take with me and pass out to the team.  Hopefully, the IEP team will be as receptive to the information as the principal and the staff member were. 

My son has also been put on a new medication.  He is taking an anti depressant now.  I wasn't sure how he would react to it as I was prescribed the same medication to stop smoking several years ago.  I had an awful reaction and had to stop the medication after 4 days.  Isaac seems to be handling it quite well.  I've received calls from the teacher almost every other day letting me know that he has been doing well.  I am pleased. 

Next week, I am leaving and taking a much needed vacation.  I haven't really had one in about 5 years.  I will be gone for almost a week.  It's extremely difficult for me to leave work but I've made up my mind that I need some time.  I will be taking my son and we will be going up North.  The drive is long but it should be fun to see old friends and family.  I am looking forward to it.

That's all I have for now.  I hope everyone is enjoying the summer.  I know I am.  =)

© 2004 Traci