Addiction Overcome, Inc.

2010-05-27T06:57:00.001-07:00

Just last week I was contacted by an old high school acquaintance of an acquaintance who is terrified as her husband's older brother who has been acting all erratic and angry then sad and weepy for 2 years is on meth. They sent him off to a 30-day program and he returned not cured, but furious that they interfered in his LIFE... as if he has one. They cleaned his home while he was away, and it was just filthy, and of course found drug paraphernalia everywhere... and she just needed advice. So I listened and offered what I could. We are having a running dialogue wherein I educate her about addicts and in particular, meth addicts and the fact that while on it, they are insane, and capable of everything up to and including murder... (remember the man in Chandler who decapitated his own 14-year-old son while driving the family van and threw the child's head out the window, all in front of the 9-year-old son in the back seat? He is on death row now in Florence, but was high as a kite on meth and the drug was telling him that the son was the devil and to get rid of him NOW, so he did). It is an evil, evil drug. And this poor gal is right to be afraid. 30 days is NOT enough. I recommended she get him over to Teen Challenge which is a 13-month program totally free... donation-run. And it is Christian based, humbling, building a servant-heart in these self-centered, angry men. If they stay, they walk out whole. Their success rate tops everyone else. It is like 97%. IF they stay. And they have retreats and reunions and love to return and help the new guys. It's a fine program, truly. They can do for this man what she and her husband cannot. What I cannot... I can, however, point people in the right direction. And this, for them, is about all there is left for one who has already failed treatment and immediately returned to his true love: the meth. But many of his connections have changed their phone numbers as they are wont to do frequently as they are so paranoid... and if you are gone for any length of time, they no longer trust YOU.. so he may have a hard time for a WHILE scoring what he needs so badly. No wonder he is angry with them. His world is all upside down now. It is heart-breaking. JAH

2008-02-12T14:47:00.001-08:00

Addiction Overcome, Inc. is a non-profit [501 (c) (3)] organization that relies on your generous gifts and contributions to fund our operations. Our needs are widespread and range from things as simple as putting gas in the car we use to transport children to and from family visit days at in-patient rehabilitation centers, to paying for Bibles and other outreach materials for addicts. Other ways your donations are used include:

-paying for in-home drug testing kits
-providing meals for children whose parents cannot afford groceries
-transportation costs
-printing and distributing outreach materials about drug abuse

The list goes on...

You can read more about us our Christmas outreach program and how we we were able to help several families over the holidays. Without you, we cannot continue in our life-changing work. Little is much when it comes to giving hope to families who are touched by addiction. You can be confident that your donations are being used in the most effective and appropriate manner, and will not be wasted on someone who isn't willing to make an effort toward breaking free from addiction.

As part of our fund raising efforts, we are proud to announce our partnership with several reputable merchants. Whenever you purchase anything from them by following the links we provide, a portion of the sale generated will result in a small commission for Addiction Overcome, Inc. This is an excellent way for you to do your online shopping while making a positive difference in the lives of the individuals and families that Addiction Overcome, Inc. helps. You can feel good about shopping with them, knowing that you are contributing to a greater good. Below is a list of the merchants we are partnered with. There's something for everyone! And remember, your purchases help Addiction Overcome, Inc. Just view our links on the right of the page.

Lunch Money for Torie--A Child In Need

2008-02-05T21:01:00.000-08:00

Torie called tonight. She told Olivia that though some things are better since Christmas, her grandmother still won't send her a packed lunch nor give her lunch money. They qualify for free and reduced lunches, but that doesn't seem to influence her grandmother whatsoever. She takes the time to fill out the annual paperwork, and then won't pay what would amount to only 85 cents for her child's lunch, or 35 cents for her breakfast at school. Instead, this child heads to school every day with no breakfast, no lunch (other than the leftover bread crusts or pizza crusts her friends save for her -- the parts of their lunches they do not want), and no fresh water bottle.

Think about this for a moment, when school starts here in August, the temperature hovers above 120 degrees most afternoons and does so often through October. By December or January, the water is still important, but the children don't dehydrate so quickly. This all changes seemingly overnight, however, in March or April when the temperatures creep back up into the triple digits and even the newscasters advise parents and grandparents to send their children to school with plenty of cold water.

Torie walks to school. She carries a heavy backpack, though it is not laden with food or snack or water. She carries her books and pencils and pens (many of which we reinforced for her at Christmas) in that heavy backpack.

Please when you pay your bills this month and thank God for the abundance He has provided for you and your family, remember Torie and all the children like her whose parents do NOT provide even the most basic of their human needs.... nutrition in order to feel awake and alert in school and write another check to Addiction Overcome, mailing it to P.O. Box 310, 2320 E. Baseline Rd, Suite #148, Phoenix, AZ 85042.

Addiction Overcome will pay the money directly into Torie's school district lunch fund rather than sending it through her family. Help us send in a large check that covers Torie's breakfasts, lunches, and water bottles five days per week through the end of the school year and then make a note to do so again in August so we can help this child eat and drink each day. My heart breaks that addiction continues to rob children of the most basic of human needs.

Ask Judith: What Was the Hardest Part?

2008-01-26T17:01:00.000-08:00

Q. What was the most difficult part of recovery?

A. The hardest part was learning that recovery meant that I had to stop for good. Completely quit. I stopped so many times, but eventually the idea would come to me that I could do just a little bit and still remain in control. Of course, that's a laughable idea. The whole thing about addiction is that it controls you, not the other way around. I had to take responsibility for my actions and fight through the cravings so that I could stay stopped. The thing about being an addict is that you can't do it halfway. You either give yourself over to the drug, or you cut it out of your life and avoid it at all costs.

When fresh cravings hit, nothing else seemed to matter. I'd fail to follow through on plans I'd make just for the sake of making sure I could score a baggie of the stuff that was ruining my life. Of course, I didn't see it that way at the time. It was definitely a case of the heart being willing but the flesh being weak. I wanted to rebuild my life with my friends and family. I wanted to quit, but the hardest part was teaching myself to behave as a person who wanted to quit. You know what they say about "if it walks like a duck, sounds like a duck..." well, if I acted like an addict and behaved as an addict, I still was one. That was a difficult phase to break through.

Heath Ledger's Death is Worth Talking About

2008-01-23T16:54:00.000-08:00

The entertainment world was rocked to the core yesterday afternoon, January 22, when the news of actor Heath Ledger’s death was announced. His body was discovered in his home, and it was surrounded by dozens of prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medications. Although no illegal or illicit substances were found, it’s plausible to presume that his demise was caused by an accidental overdose of the sleep aid, Ambien, and possibly some other medications. He was only 28 years old.

When the media spotlights these sorts of incidents, what can we learn? Should we shrug it off and attribute this to yet another example of the sins of the Hollywood scene? Or does this event mirror that which is going on in the homes of middle-class suburbia?

According to recent findings, [1] illicit drug use among teens is declining. From 1996 to 1997, the rate of illicit drug use by 8^th graders was cut nearly in half. Use of drugs such as methamphetamines, amphetamines, crystal meth, and marijuana has dropped from 24% to 13%. This is good news!

Unfortunately, there’s bad news as well. Prescription drug abuse is on the rise; specifically, narcotic pain relievers are being sought after by teens. Where are they getting them? From their parents’ medicine cabinets and pharm parties. The most dangerous aspect of illegal use of prescription narcotics is the effect they have when combined with other similar drugs and alcohol.

Parents, your teens have almost certainly heard about Heath Ledger’s death by now. Use this as an opportunity to talk to them about the dangers of drug abuse, and the importance of taking all medications, prescription or OTC, exactly as directed. Also, take inventory of your own prescription medications, and make sure you store them in a safe place as described in a previous article. If you are struggling with your own addiction to prescription medications, take action now to get help; your kids are watching.

[1] Johnston, L. D., O'Malley, P. M., Bachman, J. G. & Schulenberg, J. E. (December 11, 2007). "Overall, illicit drug use by American teens continues gradual decline in 2007." University of Michigan News Service: Ann Arbor, MI.

Ask Judith: What Motivated You to Tell Your Story?

2008-01-11T16:40:00.000-08:00

To tell you the truth, the motivating factor after my father had "suggested" I write my story for the past 12 years or so, was a book my friend and board member gave me to read. It was called A Million Little Pieces by James Frey (you know, the guy who duped Oprah and therein sullied the reputation and good name of addicts everywhere).

I read it, though finishing it was a chore, and this rarely happens to a gal who cranks out at least a book a day -- reading, not writing one, that is. I finally called Sheryl and asked her if ever she began to care about this guy. She answered quite truthfully that "No, she never had."

I was put off by his language, his profanity, his abuse of every rule of grammar and punctuation Lying in my bed that very last night of laboring through it, I said to myself, "I could do better than this in a first draft." I got up, tied a robe around my waist, and started writing.

I finished the rough draft in two and a half weeks, and though it needed several read-throughs and some corrections, and admittedly I had not set a very high bar for myself, I believe I was right about besting his paperback copy.

Interested in reading my book? Order The Other Woman at the Well: A Truthful Account of Addiciton Overcome here.

Published by Xulon Press.

Once a week I'll be answering your questions in a column called...you guessed it...Ask Judith! I invite you to submit your questions in any of the following ways:

1) Send an e-mail to addictionovercome.INC@gmail.com with the subject line "Ask Judith"

2) Leave a comment and question in our newly added guest book, which appears in the right hand column.

3) Leave your question in the comments at the end of any of the blog entries. To make sure I know it's a question, start it off by saying "Hey Judith, I have a question..."

I look forward to your feedback and answering any questions you may have about my experiences, the ministry of Addiction Overcome, Inc. or drug abuse in general.

The Danger of Alcohol and OTC Medications

2008-01-11T05:01:00.000-08:00

FACT: Alcohol is the most commonly used drug among young people. (Source: Partnership for a Drug-Free America)

FACT: 65% of the youth who drink alcohol report that they get the alcohol they drink from family and friends. (Source: Substance Abuse: The Nation's Number One Health Problem)

When you consider that many of us rely on Over-the-Counter (OTC) medications as a way to remedy simple and commonplace illnesses without the inconvenience and expense of making an appointment with the doctor. However, it's important to be careful about how these medications interact with alcohol. If you have a medicine cabinet filled with OTC medications in one room of the house, and alcohol in another, you may be unwittingly providing a dangerous environment in which your teen may experiment with combining drugs and alcohol. Please read the brief article linked below to understand what happens when alcohol and OTC medications are combined.

What You Need to Know about OTC Medications and Alcohol

Year End Recap: Operation Band-Aid

2007-12-29T19:23:00.000-08:00

Over the holidays we asked for your help in providing some families with Christmas gifts and necessities. We called our endeavor Operation Band-Aid, and told you about the specific needs of the families we planned to help.

We were blessed to receive the following items from generous donors, as well as some cash to purchase :

Target Gift Certificates
Make-Up and manicures for the teen girls
New running shoes
Haircuts and hairstyles at a local salon
DVDs of the Christmas story and Jesus' ministry
Necklace and Earrings
Bath and Body products,
Football
Clothes
Video games
Spongebob Puzzle
Journals and Notebooks
A Christmas tree
Tonka Truck
Bibles

It was quite a challenge determining how to divide up the presents so that we could give as much to each family as possible. This being our first year doing something like this, we had a lot to learn! We also personally drove some of the kids to the mall to do some shopping for gifts for their parents. Additionally, we spent time with a couple of the families over lunch, getting to know them and how we could best assist them. We t

We had a difficult time coordinating with the families that we had originally worked with, and were disappointed to learn that one or two of the parents struggling with addiction reached the point of getting in trouble with the law. That was a difficult thing to watch, and it served to remind us that overcoming addiction only happens when the addict is willing and ready to make a change.

Despite that setback and disappointment, our main objective was to provide for the kids, and we did just that. Whether or not we see those kids again, we know that God has used Addiction Overcome, Inc. to plant the seeds of hope in their lives. Perhaps years from now, they will remember the year that a group of total strangers went out of their way to give them a special Christmas.

It was a privilege and a blessing to be God's servants to the hurting this Christmas season! We look forward to the new year, and the new opportunities he will bring us for helping families as they work to overcome addiction.

When It's Time to Break Free

2007-12-29T14:22:00.000-08:00

My emaciated and malnourished frame weighed less than 90 pounds, and my arms were covered with disgusting open sores and scars from where I had been shooting up. In some places the flesh was so destroyed that I could see all the way to my bones. Even though I was in a hospital, the staff was inattentive and hopelessly naïve when it came to safeguarding against the behavior of an addict.

For all they knew, I was getting better, when in fact I had relapsed into cocaine use. While they were busy trying to save me, I was determined to get my next fix. I managed to contact my dealer and arranged for a few hundred dollars worth of cocaine to come to me in the hospital. In the meantime, I stashed any and every possible supply the nursing staff left within my reach—syringes they'd just used on me, saline bottles, even a spoon from the cafeteria. When it comes to satisfying that urge, nothing, not even the walls of a hospital will stand in the way.

I was so close to death that my family and friends were saying their goodbyes. One of my dearest friends from college was instrumental in getting me into a treatment facility. Even once I was in there I was still stubborn and ignorant of how dire my situation was and thought I’d be fine on my own. I vividly recall one nurse candidly saying “You're dead honey; you'll be dead in 4 days if you don't get your skinny [butt] back in these doors."

Decide it's as good a time to change as any.

Realize you are lucky in stopping now as there are medicines available from any reputable physician that completely takes away cravings for narcotics (suboxin), meth amphetamine, cocaine, marijuana, and nicotine (though I have not memorized the names of all of them). Just ask for help WITH that crutch. In fact, cold turkey stopping leads to more relapse than anything I know of with all the best of intentions. Those fade when the pain of withdrawals kick in. So don't suffer those pains. Get help because it is there now. Use every tool you can. That's what they're there for. Don't be a hero. Not at this stage anyway.

Make a wager with someone you love and trust.

Bet them you will still be clean next New Year's and if you are, he or she can take you to the restaurant of your choice for a lovely meal. Then win that bet. Make the reservation. Your beloved will happily take you to that meal and you might be surprised at all of the folks who show up to celebrate with you; people who have loved you all along but had no idea how to help you.

Get a reputable counselor and keep your appointments.

Find a church where you can find a small group that will pray with and for you.

Maybe an evangelical church where they will actually lay hands on you as they pray. It feels so good to be touched in this way and you will find the tears running in streams down your face. Be open with them about why you are there and what you need. They will offer to keep praying for you and many will offer you meals, friendship, weekly coffee meetings, etc. Take them up on every invitation and learn the beauty of simply showing up. Something powerful happens when we put ourselves in God's hands by trusting the people who daily communicate with God. Put yourself in their hands. I promise you will not regret this. It doesn't have to be a lifetime commitment. But without this special kind of support and love from strangers who will become like brothers and sisters, you may not have a lifetime.

What do you have to lose?

Choose Help.com has a 24-hour toll-free helpline to get your started. You can also visit the Choose Help.com website where they have listed a number of drug and alcohol rehab treatment facilities for a variety of circumstances. Please stop by their site and see what they have to offer.

Church? Me? No Way!

2007-12-20T17:46:00.000-08:00

Church is the last place I belong. Everyone there will judge me.

Perhaps you felt as though church was full of people who believed they were better than you. You may have even attended a church in the past but no longer go on a regular basis. Maybe you’ve even considered going to church at some point, but not until you’ve gotten your life back in order.

Before you totally convince yourself that church isn’t something you need or even want, let me share something with you.

Churches are full of imperfect people, most of whom want to improve their lives in some way. They believe that the best way to do this is to be around other people who share in some of their own struggles. By spending time together learning from their mistakes and triumphs, they grow stronger. Ultimately they are able to discover the type of life that God had in mind for them all along. They find a sense of purpose and belonging when they are part of something that is bigger than themselves.

But no one has the same problems I do. I’m a mess!

You may feel like you’re a mess, but you’re not. Chances are that someone else has been through something similar enough to be able to relate to your situation and offer hope. When the pieces of your life are scattered all over and you feel yourself collapsing in an exhausted heap, you can turn to someone at church. The Bible says that we all have a responsibility to shoulder each other’s burdens. How can the church be that type of support for you and demonstrate care and concern unless you’re willing to share your struggles?

What about all that God stuff?

One of the things you’ll find in any 12 step program for beating addiction, is an acknowledgment of a higher power. When you believe in a higher power, namely God, you can find hope and peace in knowing that your life is not random. There is a purpose for your life. You are not here by accident. Maybe the choices you have taken have put you on a road that seems to lead nowhere, but you can make a U-turn. God can give you a new direction in life and a new road to follow.

So how do I find a church?

If you live in the Phoenix AZ metro area, Addiction Overcome has already done some of the legwork for you. We have a growing list of churches in the area as well as their contact information. Are you ready to start going to church? Consider visiting one on Christmas, and then again in the New Year. You don't need to wait to get your life together before you go. You don't even need to wear anything special, learn fancy words like "thee and thou" or even own a Bible to go to church. All you have to do is show up.

Email us AddictionOvercome.INC@gmail.com and let us help you find a church family to help you with whatever you're struggling with this holiday season. Still not sure if you are comfortable with the idea of attending church? Many churches now have their weekly messages of hope and inspiration available for download as a podcast you can listen to. All you have to do is ask, and we'll be glad to send you a link to a church in your area that does this. Maybe after a few weeks of listening on your own, you'll feel confident enough to attend church in person.

It's up to you. The rest is up to God.

Naughty or Nice? That's Not For Us to Decide

2007-12-14T14:20:00.000-08:00

As part of our Operation Band-Aid efforts this Christmas season, I have been hard at work drumming up donations. Through email, word of mouth, blogs, and anything else I can think of, I've done my best to let others know about the ministry of Addiction Overcome, Inc. and how it can offer hope to families struggling to break free of addiction. I would like to share a small portion of an email that I received recently:

"You will find that I am unsympathetic to those overcoming an addiction they had to choose in the first place. "

The sender concludes the email with:

"God granted us free will and those who choose to abuse it get none of my sympathy or support."

Whether you agree with the sender on the issue of helping those who are struggling to overcome addiction is completely your prerogative. I urge you to consider the following thoughts that were in Jon Carroll's recent article in the San Francisco Chronicle in which he describes an altruistic effort to give $20 bills to street people as an act of random kindness:

"It is possible that the recipients of your $20 will spend the money on inappropriate things. It is also possible that you will spend your salary on inappropriate things. It is possible that they will get drunk and cause a disturbance. It is possible that you will get drunk and drive a car. We are all flawed beings on this planet, and we none of us get out alive, no matter what our score on the Virtue-meter."

We here at Addiction Overcome, Inc. do whatever it takes to ensure that your gifts are not misappropriated. It is not our policy to give cash handouts to addicts, or even give gifts that would easily be pawned or sold. Myself having been on the "naughty" side of things for a time, I have an keen sense for how to give or not give to these families in need. The gifts we are preparing to distribute are things the children have requested. They are things that the parents are unable to give because of their current situation.
This Christmas season, please open your heart and make the difference in the life of a child or teen who's parents are in the process of making their families whole again. The process of Overcoming Addiction is a long one. Your donations can help us help them pass the time with a little less anxiety and heartache.

Interested in knowing about MY story? Click here to order my book The Other Woman at the Well: A Truthful Accounting of Addiction Overcome.

Thank you for your generosity! Your gifts are much appreciated.

Please Help: Operation Band-Aid

2007-12-08T20:28:00.000-08:00

I wish I had time to prepare a more in-depth list for you all to read, but as Christmas is drawing ever closer, I'm pressed for time to make our ministry's requests known. Here is a run-down of what the needs are for the families we're trying to help this Christmas. I wish I could personally assist from my own pocket. My heart breaks as I see that even the most basic things, like pajamas, shoes, hair accessories and nutritious meal are hard to come by for these families.

If you are as moved as I am as you read these lists, I urge you to please, give in to the giving spirit of the Christmas season. Donating is easy, and your gifts are tax deductible. Just click on the Donate button to send a contribution. Or, you can contact our organization via email AddictionOvercome.INC@gmail.com.

Thank you so much for your generosity! May God bless you this Christmas season.

Apple family:

Mom -- 36 -- pill addict living with parents once more in a not-good situation -- wears baggie shorts and sport type shirts with collars. A size 12 or so.

Needs gas cards, grocery cards, meal/restaurant cards, Starbuck cards, movie cards with enough for concessions for the kids, NO CASH.

Daughter -- 15 -- tall and thin; lanky. Long hair she is very proud of. Wears sizes 5 and 7 tall. Loves jewelry and perfume and make-up. Needs some gift cards of her own for places like Target and Mervyn's and Payless shoes and Starbucks and Cold Stone Creamery. Would really like a new purse.

Son -- 11 -- plays football. Size 14 -16 hefty boys. Needs football cleats, size 5 1/2 mens or large boys. Needs clothes to play hard in, like jeans and cargo pants with polo shirts and clean bright t-shirts as well as socks and underwear with undershirts. Dreams of DX Box from Nintendo. Wants to get his mom something pretty for Christmas.

Son -- 6 -- likes Sponge Bob. Likes to build things like Play Mobiles and legos. Likes musical instruments like bongo drums and play guitars. Wears a size 7/8 boys. Needs pj's, underwear, socks, jeans, sweat shirts, polo shirts, etc. He likes video games and would like a Nintendo Gameboy.

Live in the Peoria area.

Blueberry family:

Mom -- 35 -- meth addict staying in a halfway house for abused women and children. Short and a size 8 to 10. Needs clothes suitable for job interviews and work in an office. Needs a gift card for new shoes at Payless or Target. Needs gift cards to buy her children gifts from her for the holidays. Again, Target is perfect for such a goal. Would love to have perfume and make-up, so a gift card to a nice place, like Nordstrom's or Options or Aveda or Ulta II would be great as they have hair care products as well as bath stuff. These would be great coming from her children as well.

Daughter #1 -- 16 -- two years behind in school. Athletic and petite. Size 4 - 6/ juniors 5 - 7. Likes typical girl stuff at that age: purses, shoes, makeup, perfume, a nice haircut or highlighting (at any salon, or Ulta II).

Daughter #2 -- 14 -- also two years behind in school. Size 3 -5 in juniors. Very attuned to mom and mom's pain. Assigned herself as protector of mom and family. Shy and athletic. Likes to read. Reluctant to get involved at school because of the pain found at home. Has no genuine desires of the heart, other than to have peace in her family and her dad gone. Needs jeans and tennis shoes, girl shirts and jackets, haircut and perfume, some make-up but doesn't want to stand out as older than her classmates. Wants to get her mom something special this year.

Son -- 4 -- likes trucks and loves fire trucks. Loves story books and putting things together like small kid PlayMobiles and Duplos. Needs jammies and socks, play clothes and underwear, shoes and a jacket. Size 5.

Cherry family:

Grandma -- mid-60's, -- claims she needs and wants nothing. Could use some time to herself with dying daughter and granddaughter who must be cared for in her absence. How to accomplish this? I'm not sure. Perhaps provide grandma with some gift cards to places like Chili's or Applebee's where she can take a friend to dinner close to her house, as she has no transportation.

Grandma also needs grocery cards in the worst way. Her meals come largely from soup kitchens and meals on wheels. Money is so tight, it barely covers the rent-reduced one bedroom apt they all three share; mother and daughter in one room with a hospital bed, grandma in the living room on a fold-out sofa. She needs things spruced up a bit to add cheer to an otherwise sad and hopeless setting. Gift cards to Target and K-mart would be in order.

Daughter -- 38, end-stage MS, dying and bed-ridden -- size 8 to 10. In need of adult diapers (Mediums), dressing gowns, nightshirts, etc... also perfumes and nice-smelling soaps. Her daughter would like to get her nice cards and some books on tape to listen to. She does not own a Walkman to play such books, so that is the perfect gift for this woman. Mocassin boots would be something very comfortable and special that the daughter would like to give her mom.

Child -- 12 -- small for her age. Size 12 in childrens, zero or 1 in women's or juniors. She needs everything imaginable. Clothes, shoes, make-up, hair stuff, hair cuts, Cold Stone cards, movie cards, grocery cards as grandma seems incapable of supplying nutritious foods to the home. This is a resourceful child, which serves her well and also not-so-well in many situations. She uses city bus tokens and is actually quite popular at school.

She needs shoes, socks, kid bras, undies, jammies, robe, jacket, hat, scarf, skirts, pants, tops, dresses, etc... so Target cards are good, as are Mervyn's and JC Penney, Macy's, Dillards, and K-Mart/Sears. I know she would like to get her mom something nice, but has no idea what that is.

They live in central Phoenix, very close to the Duck and Decanter, where they've never been and to the 5 and Diner on 16th Street.

Date Family:

I don't have many details about this family except to know that mom is a pill addict and dad is oblivious. Both are currently unemployed. There are two children, both in school -- the boy is 16 and the girl is 12. They are large children for their ages, so I'm imagining men's, size large for him and junior's sized Med and Lg for her; women's sizes Small and Medium. They can use gift cards and restaurant cards, movie cards and gas cards. For their parents, they can buy gifts off of the same cards and within the same perameters. The daughter would like make-up and girlish hair things. The son would enjoy some sporting equipment and clothing.

They live in the Tempe area.

ALL OF THESE FAMILIES NEED A HOLIDAY MEAL FOR BOTH THANKSGIVING AND CHRISTMAS. I will be happy to pick up meals at AJ's, Fry's, Basha's, Boston Market, Village Inn, and Marie Calender's. Many of these need to be pre-ordered and pre-paid.

Thank you for any help you can provide Addiction Overcome, Inc. in bringing the joy of the holidays to these hurting families. Your gifts will be returned manyfold.

Sincerely,

Judith

Judith Ann Hillard
Author of The Other Woman at the Well

Our Holiday Mission: Operation Band-Aid

2007-11-13T20:42:00.001-08:00

Children whose parents are battling addiction have little hope of a traditional Thanksgiving dinner. These kids don't dream of turkey, stuffing or pumpkin pie. They don't look forward to piling their plates high with a mountain of mashed potatoes drowning in gravy. The children you'll read about below are struggling just to feel like they have a family. There are days when the grownups in the house are too consumed with their own problems of addiction to act like parents. Addiction Overcome, Inc. is asking you to help.

We are already making inroads with the parents and helping them find appropriate substance abuse rehabilitation programs in their communities. That is our "first helping"--getting the parents to a point where they can once again participate in their children's lives.

Operation Band-Aid

is for the kids. All they want is for someone to care about them, to acknowledge them, and perhaps, just for one day, let them be a kid.

We are calling this a "band-aid" project because we know that it won't in itself cure the disease of addiction even in one small family. But when we are hurting, especially as children, sometimes we just need a band-aid to make us feel better. Sadly, when a wound is bleeding or not treated correctly, it can become infected and in an addicted family, the infection is far too often another generation of addicts. We want to step in and band-aid the wounds in this way so that the child remembers there are other ways to cope with pain and life's "owies" than using drugs or alcohol. There are people who care about them, right where they are, and care about their parents as well. Until we can get them more hope and more help, we can at least provide band-aids this holiday season.

Where the parents are unable to fill the basic needs for their children, Addiction Overcome, Inc. steps in. We have a growing list of children who need clothes and shoes that fit. We'd also like to be able to give these kids some fun gifts that their parents are incapable of giving.

Most importantly, we want to address the spiritual needs of the families, and point them toward Jesus. We believe this is a key component in ensuring that addictions are overcome and a meaningful life is restored.

As you read the profiles of the families below, please consider giving them

OPERATION BAND-AID

Just click on the Donate button found at the end of each story. Thank you in advance for your generosity.

Operation Band-Aid: Family #2

2007-11-12T22:10:00.000-08:00

Linda is a 36 year old mother of three living with extended family members in the Peoria, AZ community. She is struggling to overcome her addiction to prescription pills. She is currently unable to provide for her family in the most basic ways. Her children range in age from 6 to 15. These kids haven't had much of anything fun in quite awhile, and their requests for Christmas gifts are simple and humble.

For example, Linda's middle child plays Pop Warner football whenever he can. In the back of his mind he always wonders if his mom is going to bother showing up for the games. He doesn't always get to play because he doesn't have cleats that fit. His last pair was a hand-me-down from a cousin, and they're 2 sizes too small and falling apart.

Please look over the wish lists below. After each child's wish list is a donate button. Will you consider helping Addiction Overcome give them BAND-AID? This family has considerable financial needs. We'd like to provide them with gift certificates for gas, groceries, and even some fun things for them to do as a family, like movies or fast food restaurants.

WISH LISTS for Linda's kids

15 yr old girl. She is quite tall and lanky, with beautiful long hair.

clothes size 5 or 7 (tall)
makeup perfume
special request* for a new purse
Coldstone Creamery gift cards
hair accessories

11 yr old boy. He is big for his age, and wears husky sizes.

Football cleats (size 5 1/2 or 6 men's)
study "boy" clothes (size 12-14)
socks, underwear, t-shirts
special request* something pretty to give his mom for Christmas

6 yr old boy. Loves Spongebob

leggos or other building toys
socks, underwear, pajamas
special request* Gameboy
jeans (size 7/8)
anything musical

Operation Band-Aid: Family #1

2007-11-12T21:08:00.000-08:00

Peter is the father of two boys, ages 3 and 7. He wishes he could do something special for them for Christmas, but since he and the boys' mother are both incarcerated, that is unlikely. Peter worries about not being there for his boys, and knows that because of his mistakes, Christmas isn't going to be a meaningful or personal event.

Peter's 3-year-old son is a bit big for his age, and growing every day. He needs something more than just a pair of sweat pants to wear. Peter's other son, an avid reader, would love to have some new, challenging books, maybe even the kind with chapters!

This is just one example of a broken family in need of restoration and wholeness. Please consider donating to help make their holidays brighter. The family is in need of clothing and necessities for the kids, a prepared meal, and maybe even some groceries. Click on the donate button below to help.

***

I would like to give Peter's family A BAND-AID. Please use my gift where it is most needed.

Click below to donate a Marie Callender's dinner with all the trimmings ($125) to Shane's family:

Click below to donate a Barnes & Noble gift card ($25)

Would you like to donate a $25 Target gift card to buy clothes for the boys?

Mission Statement and Purpose of Addiction Overcome, Inc.

2007-10-21T21:23:00.000-07:00

…That the creation itself will be liberated from its bondage to decay and brought into the glorious FREEDOM of the children of God.

(Romans 8:21, NIV)

What is Addiction Overcome, Inc.?

Addiction Overcome, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) Non-Profit Organization. We are a faith-based outreach whose goal is to offer hope to the still-suffering yet hopeful addict. Addiction Overcome, Inc. seeks to reunite and restore families touched by addiction and provide resources aimed at keeping the former addict in a recovery mode.

Addiction Overcome, Inc. also provides educational outreach to churches, schools, civic groups, and any company or organization interested in learning the facts about drug addiction and how it is literally killing families. Drug abuse and addiction is a growing problem, and is hurting communities and persons from all walks of life.

Judith Ann Hillard, President of Addiction Overcome, Inc. is available to speak to community groups, schools, churches, etc., sharing with them her true story of addiction overcome. She is a vibrant and dynamic speaker who, by the grace of God and the assistance of a loving, faithful family, has broken free from cocaine addiction.

How Addiction Overcome, Inc. Helps Families

Addiction Overcome, Inc. is directly involved in shuttling the children of addicted parents, to and from drug rehabilitation facilities on visitor days. Addiction Overcome, Inc. will also provide gifts of basic necessities and non-perishable foods (socks, toothbrushes, granola bars, etc.) to the families of those who are actively and successfully working through a drug rehabilitation program.

Judith Ann Hillard and Lauren Beyenhof are currently writing a book that will help families recognize when their teen is in trouble, and how to seek appropriate help. The working title of the book is Not MY Kid: The Myth of the Drug-Free Home.

Without God, we can do nothing. Addiction Overcome, Inc. strives to address the spiritual needs of addicts by connecting them with a local church. Volunteers working with Addiction Overcome, Inc. are available to pray with the families who are touched by drug addiction. Families can also avail themselves of a prayer and support hotline. All families that are being helped by Addiction Overcome, Inc. will be given an opportunity to hear about Jesus Christ, and how he has made it possible to break free from the bondage of addiction.

Our Needs

As a 501(c)(3) organization, Addiction Overcome, Inc. relies completely on your generous donations to meet our financial goals. If you are able to donate, please contact either Judith Hillard (judith dot hillard at gmail dot com.) or Lauren Beyenhof (poolsofgrace at gmail dot com) for more information. Your gifts will be used in the following ways:

Maintaining a support hotline
Purchasing Bibles for families
Gas for driving to and from family days at treatment facilities
Brochures, bookmarks, and other literature handouts to give at speaking engagements
Paying our support staff

My Baby, My Daughter, My God...

2007-10-21T13:40:00.000-07:00

This is for any parent who has ever experienced the agony of watching their beautiful, precious child slip away into the darkness of drug abuse and addiction. This article is available on TheOoze.com. Please follow this link to read My Baby, My Daughter, My God in its entirety.

Here is some of the feedback I've received on it so far. I encourage you to read the poem yourself and let me know if it touched you, and if so, how.

***

Heart wrenching! reaches down deep to the pain a parent feels when they experience this. What a great understanding judith has shown and compassion for parents on that streetcar. I hope her voice will inspire and encourage those in need to reach out and be embraced. Bring her in to your organization or your church group, or you circle to share her wisdom and warmth!

--Garrison

She has captured the growth steps and the different directions the adult child might choose. I share Judith's feelings regarding addictions because I gave birth to five children who later in life all became addicted to alcohol and drugs.

--Marilyn

This really invokes some strong emotions, sort of like a roller coaster. It pulls you to remember the joys of raising your child and the little things you take such joy and then into the horror and fear and possible guilt of wonder what as a parent could have you done different. Very moving, sad and yet eye opening.

--J.

Addiction and Teens: What to Do when Addiction Touches Your Teen

2007-10-19T08:40:00.000-07:00

Adolescents who may be caught up in drug abuse and addiction generally exhibit some, if not all, of the following changes:

Problems at school; poor academic performance, cutting class, disrespecting teachers, or dropping extracurricular activities

Changes in friendships; spending time with peers their parents don't know, making or receiving phone calls at odd hours, spending time with peers who smoke, drink, or abuse drugs

Physical changes; weight loss, unusual sleeping habits, lack of personal hygiene, increased cough caused by smoking, nicotine-stained fingers and yellow fingernails, , reeking of smoke or alcohol.

Personality difference; mood swings, unprovoked anger, depression, belligerent and argumentative attitude.

If you have observed some of the above mentioned changes in your teen, The time has come to take action.

Click here to read the full article and learn what steps you must take to intervene for your teen to help break free from addiction before it's too late.

Have You Been to Judith's Official Website?

2007-09-24T16:29:00.001-07:00

Please check out Judith's new book, The Other Woman At The Well: A Truthful Accounting of Addiction Overcome and read about her overcoming a devastating cocaine addiction.

Judith was the eldest child of a Protestant minister, a straight-A student, student body president of her high school, homecoming queen of a large university, and the girl everyone wanted their son to marry. The recipient of several advanced degrees, she taught English, public speaking, educational research, and leadership for many years. When she became a cocaine addict, she nearly lost it all.

Read how she was willing to receive God's grace to overcome her cocaine addiction. Judith is committed to sharing her story about her cocaine addiction in efforts to help other cocaine addicts and people suffering from other addictions, to overcome their individual addictions.

Click here to enter Judith Ann Hillard's Official Website.

How To Stop Someone From Driving Drunk

2007-09-16T19:27:00.000-07:00

Approximately 14 million Americans (i.e. 7.4% of the population) meet the diagnostic criteria for alcoholism. Consideration of that statistic along with the fact that drunken driving was responsible for taking 17,602 lives in 2006, it's easy to see the need to keep people from getting behind the wheel when they are under the influence of alcohol. Nearly 1/3 of all drivers convicted of driving while intoxicated (DWI) or driving under the influence (DUI) are repeat offenders, and males are more likely than females to drive drunk.

Taking the necessary steps to stop a person from drinking and driving is the duty of every concerned citizen. Click here to read suggestions for keeping a friend, relative or co-worker from climbing behind the wheel while under the influence of alcohol.

Suspicious of Your Teen?

2007-09-15T19:37:00.001-07:00

Drug and alcohol abuse and addiction have a multi-dimensional impact on teens. Their social, emotional, cognitive and physical selves may be profoundly disrupted or damaged in the wake of drug abuse and addiction. Do you suspect your teen is abusing drugs or alcohol? The following list contains some things to look for if your suspicions are already aroused.

Is your teen:

moody
argumentative
secretive
exhibiting disruptive behavior
absent from school
losing interest in extracurricular activities
on the phone at odd hours
deceptive
spending time with friends you haven't met

If your teen is behaving in any of the above ways, it is your right and duty as a parent to check up on your teen. As a minor living in your home, your teenager does not have a "right to privacy" (no matter how much s/he insists s/he does!) The first thing to do if you suspect a problem is to go through your kid's bedroom. If that proves unfruitful, administer a home version of a drug test.

Even good parents have kids who make bad decisions. They may think "not my kid." It is important for parents to take action at the first sign of trouble. By not marginalizing drug or alcohol abuse, you will be better able to deal with the problem. Things you don't want to tell yourself are:

"It's just a phase"

"She's just expressing his individuality"

"He's just a kid; kids do stupid things."

If this truly were a phase, part and partial to adolescence, then every teen would have this phase. You'd be able to walk into your teen's homeroom at school and see the same type of behavior or appearance in each and every one of his or her classmates. Hanging around with others who abuse drugs and alcohol is not an expression of individuality. It's an unhealthy and dangerous habit.

Getting Help

You may tell yourself that adolescence is naturally turbulent. Why else would kids do such stupid things to test their limits? Whereas it may be true that kids do stupid things, an adolescent is a person who is no longer a child but not yet an adult. As an almost-adult, adolescents should be given privileges, responsibilities and discipline--all administered by an attentive parent or parents. If you find evidence that your adolescent is abusing drugs or alcohol, don't just assume that he will shape up on his own. As a parent you must act swiftly and strongly to address this dangerous and immoral behavior.

Parents who set healthy boundaries and model moral behavior should expect their adolescents to follow suit. However, in some cases teens feel a need to explore beyond the safe zone of the boundaries set by their parents. When this happens and the teen gets caught behaving badly, it's easy for parents to blame themselves. Instead of focusing on trying to figure out where (if at all) you went wrong as a parent, focus on doing the right thing for your teen. You must act swiftly and unequivocally to address the problem of drug or alcohol abuse.

Don't be afraid or ashamed to admit that the problem is bigger than you can handle on your own. Many people feel a stigma in asking for help. They perceive weakness in themselves if they can't "fix" a problem in the family. The best and most loving thing to do as a parent is to deal with abuse and addiction as the serious thing that it is. This may involve calling your local police department and filing charges of drug possession against your teen. You may also need to get your son or daughter into an inpatient treatment facility. There are many resources available, such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), Narcotics Anonymous (NA), and Al-Anon, each of which are designed to help those affected by addiction and their families. Consult your local phone book, or avail yourself of the resources linked on this page.

Places Not to Keep Your Prescription Medications

2007-09-12T17:23:00.001-07:00

Teen drug abuse in affluent families is on the rise; prescription drug abuse in particular is reaching epidemic proportions. Where are these teens getting such strong medications? The answer: from parents who have legal prescriptions for them.

Even if you trust your teen, it's a good idea to keep strong narcotics and pain medications in a safe place. Most people keep their medications in 1 of 3 places:

1. In the medicine cabinet

2. In the kitchen cupboards

3. In the nightstand or bedside table

These three locations are NOT SAFE places to keep drugs. They are the first place teens will go if they want to steal your meds. Keep prescriptions, especially those with sedative effects like Vicodin, Codeine, Valium, Ambien, etc. in a locked drawer or cabinet if possible.

As a person who has struggled to overcome addiction, I encourage you to take whatever steps you can to make your prescription medications inaccessible to your kids. Also, remind them in one of those parent-child conversations about drugs, that being in possession of a medication for which they do not have a prescription is a FELONY.

Too many homes are being destroyed by the drug epidemic. I hope that yours is not one of them.

Be Safe,
Judith

Opportunities for Outreach

2007-09-11T22:45:00.000-07:00

I've learned from experience that drug abuse and addiction is a subject that touches everyone, even if only tangentially. Every time I speak to a group, people come up to me afterwards and ask me to pray with them and for them. Many times I find myself looking deep into tear-flooded eyes, and I know that God is using me to impact those who hear my story.

I should probably be in bed getting some much needed sleep, but I wanted to update my blog and let you know about my latest speaking engagement. Tomorrow (Wednesday) I will be speaking at the Gold Canyon Rotary Club at noon. For those of you who are familiar with the Phoenix area, this means I'll be driving way past Apache Junction, up in the Superstition Mountains. I covet your prayers for a meaningful and successful day. I'm asking God to prepare the hearts of those who will hear me, and that more opportunities will come out of this.

If you think my testimony of overcoming cocaine addiction would impact your church group, school, rotary club, etc. let me know! For booking information send email to judith.hillard at gmail dot com.

When Are You Too Much of a Fan?

2007-09-10T08:46:00.000-07:00

A Sports Junkie Discusses His Addiction
by Drew Norman

For fully six months of the year, I am an addict. Every day. Work, time spent with my family, when I mow the lawn, even vacations revolve around when and where my team will be playing. This summer, I planned a family trip to the Civil War sites in Gettysburg around the time when the Cubs were going to be in Pittsburgh to play the Pirates. Tickets are easy to get in Pittsburgh. Sick stuff, huh?

Read more...

My Story of Addiction Overcome

2007-09-08T22:26:00.000-07:00

I was a preacher's kid, the president of the National Honor Society, and voted "most likely to succeed" by my classmates. I doubt anyone dreamed that I would start snorting cocaine.

Initially I thought cocaine was "helping" me write my dissertation. Thanks to my fix, I was no longer in need of mundane necessities such as sleep, food, liquids or even social contact. I blew out my sinuses so badly that I was awakened by intense pain, sobbing in agony. My solution was to numb the pain by snorting more of the stuff.

Once I finished my advanced credentials and landed my dream teaching job, I had the financial means to use cocaine more frequently. My life began to deteriorate rapidly. My nose bled often and the pain was near constant. Eventually I got turned on to intravenous drug use.

I used IV drugs for exactly six months. It only took four for my arms to swell into footballs and then my skin to fall off in black clumps the size of citrus fruits. I was caught shooting up in the bathroom of the school where I taught, and I was terminated. I was devastated and my body continued to deteriorate. I was 34 and weighed a mere 84 pounds. Two friends intervened and accompanied me back to my home state.

My parents met me at the airport and immediately whisked me away to Good Samaritan Hospital. A team of very determined doctors and a variety of specialists worked hard to repair my drug-damaged body. I needed multiple skin grafts to patch up my arms. They worked on me for seven weeks.

At one point a nurse told me "You're dead honey, you just don't know it yet."

Needless to say, saving me was not going to be easy. It required Divine intervention. I uttered an 11th hour prayer to God. I honestly didn't care whether I lived or died. I begged God to show me a sign and give me a reason to live. I had met an wonderfully handsome man while in recovery, and shortly after asking God to give me a reason to live, I learned that I was pregnant with this man's child. I knew that although I was perfectly willing to hurt myself and ravage my own body through drug use, I would not harm the life of the innocent child growing inside me.

With the help of friends, I stayed clean throughout my pregnancy, and welcomed a beautiful baby girl into my life. She is a gift of God, and in many ways has been an extension of His grace to me. In fact, Grace is her middle name.

I have since written a book about how God enabled me to overcome my addiction. -The Other Woman at the Well: A Truthful Accounting of Addiction Overcome- is my story. I am now celebrating my second chance at life, and sharing my story with anyone who will listen. I frequently speak to groups of parents and teens about drug addiction.

God has worked a miracle in my life. Because of his saving grace, I have overcome cocaine addiction.

Test Your Drug Abuse* Awareness

2007-09-07T06:24:00.000-07:00

Approximately how many current cocaine users (age 12 or older) are there?

1.6 million
3.2 million
2.4 million
2.0 million

Answer: C

What percentage of the population age 12 or older has abused prescription drugs in the past month?

4%
2.8%
1.3%
.7%

ANSWER: B
7 million people are currently abusing prescription medications. The majority (5.2 million) are abusing pain killers.

Approximately how many current users of methamphetamines are there?

.2%
.3%
1.1%
5%

ANSWER: C

Among young people age 12 to 17, the use of illicit drugs such as marijuana, LSD, and Ecstasy has ___ between 2002 and 2006.

increased
decreased

ANSWER: B
The number of youths abusing illicit drugs has decreased from 11.6% of the population to 9.8%.

How many people, age 12 or older, who abuse pain relievers non-medically have obtained the drugs from a friend or relative for free?

25%
39%
41%
55.7%

ANSWER: D

Which group of adults, age 18+ has the greatest number of illicit drug users?

unemployed
full time employed
part-time

ANSWER: A

In 2006 there were 17.9 million (18.5%) current illicit drug users who are unemployed.

What percent of the population has driven under the influence of illicit drugs?

6.8%
2.5%
4.2%
1.1%

ANSWER: C

The rate was highest among young adults between the ages of 18 and 25.

*All answers are taken from Results from the 2006 National Survey on Drug Use and Health: National Findings

National Alcohol & Drug Addiction Recovery Month

2007-09-07T01:14:00.000-07:00

This year's theme, "Join the Voices for Recovery: Saving Lives, Saving Dollars," asks you to take notice of the financial and human costs of substance use disorders, and to understand the benefits that investing in treatment can have on those who enter recovery, their families, and the larger community.

For more information be sure to visit www.recoverymonth.gov

Stories of Recovery

2007-09-06T00:31:00.000-07:00

"Nobody but God could have taken these destructive things out of my life."

David Leary, author of
The Beast Within, Destroyer of Souls

The True Story of Evil, Death, Destruction, Divine Intervention and Salvation

"At Goldsmiths University, I'd been the healthiest, most positive student you could meet. Now here I was seven years later, a very different person. I was negative, and felt that life was losing its colour and spiraling out of control. My girlfriend insisted: 'Stop using coke.'"

Excerpted from "Back from the Brink" by Sarah Graham.

"I never would I have thought I would be alive to go to college, but thank you, dear Lord, for giving me life." (Sarah T.)

Read the rest of Sarah's story here

The Nature of Addiction and the Quest for Treatment

2007-09-02T20:25:00.000-07:00

Addiction does not care who you hurt, who you lie to or steal from, who you double-cross, cares about nothing but the next fix.
--BreAnne Kautsky

The nature of addiction to me is an attitude. Every clear sober headed person has morals (or at least they should.) A person with an addiction inside them at one time did have morals but addiction gets rid of your morals and replaces them with the desire for more and the willingness to do anything to get it...

read the complete article here

Smarter than Lab Rats?

2007-08-31T03:37:00.000-07:00

Addiction studies have shown that laboratory rats will choose cocaine over food and water. Rats will also take huge electric shocks or press a lever over 10,000 times to get a dose of cocaine. Left on their own, they will inject themselves to death. Humans are different from rats, right?

Yes. Rather than electric shocks, human addicts empty their bank accounts, sell their possessions, commit crimes, sell their bodies, and betray their loved ones. Think you can use cocaine casually? Think again. If you’re using coke and you’re not addicted, you’re just not addicted yet.

Source: http://www.gdcada.org/statistics/cocaine.htm

Defining Drug and Substance Abuse

2007-08-30T19:09:00.000-07:00

Drug abuse may involve the overuse or misuse of prescribed or over-the-counter medications (particularly sleeping pills) or illicit drugs. Stimulants such as cocaine, "ecstacy," "speed," and other amphetamines, opiods (heroin, morphine and other sleep-inducing narcotics), and marijuana are currently the most widely abused illicit drugs. Currently, the most common form of substance abuse is alcohol abuse--the overuse of beer, wine, or liquor.

Source: Bipolar Disorder Demysified by Lana R. Castle

The term "Substance Abuse" is the condition caused by regular excessive compulsive drinking of alcohol and/or physical habitual dependence on drugs that results in a chronic disorder affecting physical health and/or personal or social functioning. This does not include dependence on tobacco and ordinary caffeine-containing drinks.

www.wwcta.org/ins7-def.htm

Substance abuse has a range of definitions related to disaproval over use or overuse of mood altering substances. These fall into four main categories: Substance abuse may lead to addiction or substance dependence. Medicaly, dependence requires the development of tolerance leading to withdrawal symptoms. ...

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Substance_abuse

Try a Natural High--Laugh!

2007-07-22T23:47:00.000-07:00

Have you ever heard people talk about experiencing a "natural high?" Perhaps you've asked yourself if there really is such a thing, and if so, how do you get it?

Endorphins are a type of protein naturally present in the body. They are very similar to morphine and even have the ability to relieve pain. By attaching themselves to special receptors in the brain and spinal cord, they stop the body from sending pain messages. In the interest of bringing a little bit of light humor to an otherwise heavy subject, I'd like to share a couple of amusing quotes with you. Go ahead and laugh--let your brain release those endorphins.

Personally, I think the following would be excellent as T-shirt logos. My apologies to those who think this sort of humor is inappropriate.

"I'm addicted to placebos.
I'd give them up, but it wouldn't make any difference."

"Rehab is for quitters!"

An Older Brother for a Season

2007-06-04T16:54:00.001-07:00

Nathan P. Gilmour has written a review of The Other Woman at the Well as published on The Ooze. Here's just a sample of the full article:

Because I've always looked from the outside at drug addiction, and because I looked from the outside in on Judith's, her letters to the people who love her brought forth the most visceral reaction as I read. As she begged forgiveness of her students, her friends, her parents, I never really felt any twinge of sympathy with the former English teacher, and as she confessed her addiction through these letters, knowing full well that she would be seeking out more cocaine when she finished writing, I could not help but to hate.

Before you go thinking that Mr. Gilmour is casting me in an unflattering light, keep in mind that drug addiction is as unflattering as it is illegal. Read his full review on The Ooze by following the link below:

Older Brother For a Season by Nathan P. Gilmour

Please go ahead and add your own comments on The Ooze. Thanks!

Recap of May 2 Speaking Engagement

2007-06-04T16:19:00.001-07:00

I have taken my sweet time in updating on the speaking engagement at Grace Community Church. As much impact as I know my book is having, I know that these speaking engagements can take the message of Addiction Overcome to a whole new level. My speaking career seems to be the thing that that is putting a fire in the belly of my audiences. Concerned parents, elite Rotary Club members, and most importantly, several hundred high school students are hearing my story, and are being presented with the facts of drug abuse and addiction that cannot be ignored.

I titled my speech "Just One Line Can Change Your Life," And used PowerPoint to display statistics of drug abuse and addiction and some basic drug facts. I also invited the audience to ask me questions. The questions the group asked that night were amazing. They cut right to the bone. The more they asked, the more I opened up about the frightening reality that was my life as a cocaine addict. I dared to tell my story so that maybe just one more teen won't have to crawl on his or her belly through the depressing and disgusting shadows of addiction.

I didn't sell as many books as I had hoped to that night, but I know for certain that I got my message across. I could see it in the faces of shocked parents who were finally ready to accept that they had a teen who needed intervention. Though there were tears of liquid frustration in the eyes of some, I knew there was hope shining out from the depths. Hope for a miracle; hope that there would soon be another wonderful story of addiction overcome.

With more speaking engagements coming up, I'm busy writing and as always, researching the latest statistics on the subject of drug abuse, particularly among teens.

Chained to Addiction

2007-06-03T17:53:00.000-07:00

Drug abuse and addiction affects so many people in so many ways. It is a growing public health concern that cannot and must not be ignored. Unfortunately, many stereotypes and myths about drug abusers contribute to the problem. So what is drug addiction?

Is it a behavioral problem? A disease? Moral shortcoming? Is is a social problem?

Truthfully, drug abuse and addiction is all of the above. Prevailing scientific evidents has identified addiction as a chronic, relapsing and treatable disease. The National Institute on Drug Abuse states the following about addiction and treatment:

Addiction does begin with drug abuse when an individual makes a conscious choice to use drugs, but addiction is not just "a lot of drug use." Recent scientific research provides overwhelming evidence that not only do drugs interfere with normal brain functioning creating powerful feelings of pleasure, but they also have long-term effects on brain metabolism and activity. At some point, changes occur in the brain that can turn drug abuse into addiction, a chronic, relapsing illness. Those addicted to drugs suffer from a compulsive drug craving and usage and cannot quit by themselves. Treatment is necessary to end this compulsive behavior.

People can and do become addicted to a drug in a short period of time. Some even become addicted after their first experience with a drug. Consider this--3 out of 4 people who try cocaine will become addicted to it. What's more, only 1 in 4 of those addicted will be able to quit without help.

As a former cocaine addict, I know first hand how difficult it is to recognize that I needed help, let alone accept it from people who saw how I was ruining my life. The path that took me to the depths of self-loathing and self-abuse was easy--all I had to do was give in to my craving. Leaving the addiction behind was one of the most difficult things I ever dared, and I know I couldn't have done it by myself. I couldn't have done it for myself either. God gave me a reason to get clean, a reason for living for something and someone other than my cocaine addiction.

My daughter is just one of many miracles and blessings that helps me to live each day drug free. Although my body has sustained a great deal of damage after years of cocaine abuse, and bears the scars of the intense, invasive, painful medical procedures it took to get me back on track, I am living proof that addiction can be overcome.

Three Statistics You Can't Ignore

2007-05-27T02:33:00.000-07:00

1. Among 12-17 year olds, 6.8% used marijuana this month

2. Heroin is becoming the drug of choice for suburban high school and college students in affluent areas

3. More than 34 million Americans, age 12 and older, have used cocaine at least once in their lifetimes

Excerpt from "The Face of the Gambler"

2007-05-27T02:21:00.000-07:00

Addictions of every variety abound and thrive in our society. In fact, gambling triggers the exact rush of dopamine cocaine releases into the body by the brain. They are the most parallel of addictions, and the addict brain having sampled his first taste of the rush of the coke or the rush of adrenaline in the slot machine is feeling the exact same merriment and head rush the gambler can literally FEEL the electrical thrumming in his bones while anticipating the rolling of the reels, each bounce of the dice, each slice of the cards.

In searching the face of the gambler, one need not look far.

Read the rest of "The Face of the Gambler."

Featured in the Delta Gamma News!

2007-05-22T16:12:00.000-07:00

The ANCHORA of Delta Gamma, Spring 2007

Scroll down to page 27, and you'll see my picture, the book cover, and a description of The Other Woman at the Well.

Mark Your Calendar for June 6

2007-05-21T22:12:00.000-07:00

Please join me Wednesday, June 6 at 12:00pm (noon) at Crocket Middle School. I will be sharing my story of addiction, faith and recovery with young, at-risk teens in the Baltz School District.

This is an informal, brown-bag lunchtime event. Teachers, ministers, Rotary Presidents or others who work with teens are welcome. Be sure to find me after the talk if you think my message would be appropriate for YOUR group or audience.

The school is located at 36^th and Van Buren, in downtown Phoenix. I look forward to seeing you there!

Book Review by Lydia Schoch

2007-05-21T21:52:00.000-07:00

Judith’s book broaches this topic with an incredible amount of introspection and honesty. Her addiction took away her teaching job, many of her friends, her social standing, and health. Complications from severe skin infections brought on by her IV drug use nearly took her life more than once. --Lydia Schoch

Read the full review on TheOoze.com

Speaking Engagement, Tempe AZ

2007-05-01T23:44:00.000-07:00

Where: Grace Community Church, Tempe AZ

When: May 2, 7 p.m. in Dorsey Hall

Who: Parents, bring your teens. Teens, bring your friends. You won't want to miss this.

What: Did you know that just one line can change your life?

I will present current statistics about drug addiction, and share my personal experience in overcoming cocaine addiction. My goal is not to shock, but to educate. Drug abuse is increasingly prevalent, even among young teens in affluent populations.

Alcohol, marijuana, cocaine, heroin, and particularly meth, are claiming far too many lives. These addictions must be overcome. the good news is, they can be!

Come join me as I share my heart, and the powerful reality of Addiction Overcome.

Editorial Reviews

2007-05-01T13:32:00.000-07:00

Drink from the well of 'The Other Woman'

--Phillip E. Long 3/14/07

In spite of knowing better, I had to stop and remind myself repeatedly that this woman is no longer submerged in the agony she so vividly describes. The story is sad and sobering, though Judith is quite articulate and possesses a playful literary flair. The relentless need to write--even throughout her addiction and recovery-- has supplied the raw material from which she draws frightening glimpses into her drug induced insanity. She weaves them into credible (incredible!) vignettes that give you a sense of her desperation and helplessness. That she survived to tell her story is miracle enough. That she tells it so openly and poignantly is remarkable. Judith Ann has much to offer any who would drink from the well of her experience. The woman at the well of Sychar believed in Jesus and discovered within herself a spring of eternal life. The Other Woman at the Well also discovered Life.

There's Hope for All of Us

--Carol Vassallo 1/18/07

The black void into which addictions led Judith Ann can never be forgotten by anyone who ever loved her. Addictions turned this witty, charming, funny, sensitive, literary and brilliant woman into a faithless shadow. The transformation was heart-breaking, extreme and terrifying. I am not a religious person by any conceivable definition, but I know the hand of God when I see it. This is a story of struggle and redemption and, most importantly, truth. Judith Ann and her daughter, Olivia, are living proof that unseen forces are always working (and in Judith Ann's case putting in overtime) to fashion the perfect solution. If you need proof of a miracle, your search has ended. What a sad, inspiring, and ultimately lovely story.

A gruesome, honest, headlong look at overcoming addiction

--Lauren G. Beyenhof, 5/1/07

I have read many books on recovery, hope, hopelessness, and addiction. The fever, the passion, the hopelessness, the pain, the love, the compassion, the HOPE, and the miracles of overcoming a dastardly addiction are tangible. Ms. Hillard's candid testimony describes it all frighteningly well. She uses candor, humor, wit, and what must be a quick mind to tell her story of sliding from a Mary Poppin's 'practically perfect' life into the underbelly side of the world where no one should visit, let alone dwell. I want to send it to all of my friends and coworkers who struggle with weight, sex, gambling, shopping, etc... She doesn't need to exaggerate. The unabashed and unashamed truth tells all.

Feedback and Testimonials

2007-05-01T13:23:00.000-07:00

"I found your presentation deeply and profoundly moving."

--Peter (Phoenix, Camelback Rotarians)

I read [your book] last night until I couldn't keep my eyes open. I'm sure your writing will help many readers with their pain of addiction.

--Marilyn Lancelot (Author of Gripped By Gambling)

"I have looked at your website and certainly am impressed."

--Carol J. Thompson, Ph.D (Spirit of Recovery.com)

A-Z list of Merchant Affiliates

2005-02-21T03:56:00.000-08:00

(Scroll down to see some of your favorite familiar stores and brands highlighted in RED)

1-800-Petmeds
Alibris
alle' Fine Jewelry
AmeriMark.com

Apple iTunes
Complete Your Favorite Albums Now. $7.99 or Less. Download on iTunes now.

Applicance Parts Pros.com, Inc.
Artistic Labels
As We Change
Atom Entertainment
Baby Universe
Bare Necessities
Bargain Cell.com
Beatport LLC
Beauty.com
Bids, Inc.

Bionaire.com
Save up to 30% on humidifier and air cleaner filters

Bits and Pieces, Inc.
Black Hound New York
Blinds.com
Blue Dolphin Group, LLC
Boden
Brigade Quartermasters, Ltd.
Cafe Britt
Cambridge SoundWorks
Camping World
Charles Trywhitt
Chemistry.com
Cheryl & Co.
Church & Dwight Co., Inc.
CookiesKids

Crock-Pot.com
15% Off Rival products. Use promo code 5Q4R at check out.

Current Catalog
Current Labels
D&E Pharmaceuticals
David's Cookies
Denise Austin
DERMAdoctor.com, Inc.
Designer Linens Outlet
Diamonds International
Dreamtime Baby
drugstore.com, inc.
Dutch Gardens, Inc.
Electronic Appraiser Inc.
Elf Cosmetics
Enesco

ESPN Shop
Get a MLB Jersey of Any Player from ESPNShop.com

etoys.com
Film Movement, LLC
Fleurop-Interflora EBC AG
Florsheim.com
Flower.com Flowers
Flowerstore.com
FoodSaver.com
Forzieri.com
FragranceNet.com
From You Flowers, LLC
Fujitsu Computer Systems Corporation
fye.com
Gaiam.com, Inc.
Gardener's Supply Company
GiftBaskets.com, Inc.
Giftsforyounow.com
Glenny's
Goflballs.com
Good Times Entertainment
Gourmet Monthly Clubs
GreatSkin.com
HandHelditems

Hanes.com
Comfort Soft Undershirts

Hay House.com
Health Benefits Direct
HearthSong
Homestead Technologies, Inc.
iAmplify
ICE.com
Identity Direct
iFloor.com
igourmet.com
Inspired Silver
Interstate Batteries.com
Iomega Corporation

J&R Computer/Music World
The Apple MacBook Air SuperDrive!

James Allen
Jewelry Web.com Inc
Jillian Michaels
Jump TV Inc.
Just Because Baskets
Just Blinds
JustJewelry.com
Karmaloop LLC
Kayak.com

kbtoys.com
KBtoys.com: Find the Perfect Gift for Kids of All Ages

Knetgolf.com
LastMinuteTravel.com
LEADSCOM.com
Limoges Jewelry
LiveAquaria.com
Luggage Online
Lumber Liquidators
Magazineline.com
Magazines.com, Inc.
Magic Cabin
Match.com

McAfee, Inc.
$20 Instant Savings on McAfee Total Protection and Internet Security Suite

Medicus International Inc.
Microsoft-Windows Marketplace

Mikasa
Find great crystal pieces for your home by Celebrations by Mikasa. Shop Mikasa online, today.

Motorcycle Superstore, Inc.
Movielink LLC
MusicSpace.com
Mytwinn.com
National Business Furniture Inc.
NetMagazines.com
New Health Corp

Office Depot, Inc.
Print your tax return on a new HP LaserJet and save up to $150!

Officefurniture.com
Palmbeachjewelry.com
Paper Direct
Park Inn
Perfume Worldwide, Inc.
Personal Creations
PersonlizationMall.com
Petite Sophisticate

PetSmart
New Pet items at PetSmart
Plow & Hearth
Prep Sportswear
Problem Solvers
ProGolf.com
Puritan's Pride
Queensboro Shirt Company
Rapid Bath
rateGenius

RDstore.com (Readers Digest)
Shop RDStore.com for over 2,000 unique book, music, and movies. Shop today and get Free Shipping on orders of $40 or more. Enter RDSHIPFREE at checkout.

RiffTrax.com
Rushmypassport.com
SeaBear Smokehouse
Second Spin.com
Servicemagic, Inc.
Sharper Image
Shutterfly.com
Sierra Club
Sierra Trading Post
Silverts.com

Sirius Satellite Radio, Inc.
Shop for great deals in the SIRIUS clearance section.
Size Appeal
SkyMall, Inc.
Soda Club USA
South Beach Diet
SpinLife.com, LLC
Spiritual Cinema Circle

SportsAuthority.com
Save Up to $1200 on Fitness Equipment 6.10 – 6.16 at SportsAuthority.com!

Super Warehouse
Szul.com
TaxHawk
Tech Depot
textbookx.com
The Noble Collection, Inc.
The Paragon

The Popcorn Factory
Gourmet Popcorn, cookies, cheesecakes & more at THE POPCORN FACTORY!

The Baby Outlet
Tiger Direct
Txttunes, Limited
US Search.com, Inc.
Vertical Response, Inc.
Vision Direct
Wayside Gardens

Western Union
Send CASH in a FLASH with Western Union Money Transfer

Wirefly
Woodwind & Brasswind
World of Watches
WOWQUOTE.com One Stop Quote Service

Shop Our Merchant Affliliates

2005-02-21T02:59:00.000-08:00

We've got links to everything from beauty products to batteries, weight loss to watches. There are dozens of merchant affiliates, so be sure to scroll all the way down to take it all in. We'll be updating this page as regularly as possible to make it easier to search for the products you want to purchase. Please keep in mind that by clicking on the images provided, you will be taken to a page that is separate from Addiction Overcome, Inc. Although we do our best to make sure not to link to anything questionable, we cannot be 100% sure about what you'll find once you leave our site.

Thank you for doing your online shopping here. Because of our partnership with these merchants, Addiction Overcome, Inc. received a small commission on the purchases you make at their sites. We in turn use this contribution to fund our efforts to help pave the road to recovery for addicts and their families.

AmeriMark.com

Apple iTunes

Appliance Parts Pros

Ways To Donate

2005-02-17T16:12:00.000-08:00

Thank you for your interest in helping Addiction Overcome, Inc. meet its goals. We have many ways you help.

Become a Monthly Supporter

Our mission is ongoing, and so are the needs of the families we help. When you sign up as a monthly supporter, you may designate any dollar amount of your choosing to automatically go to Addiction Overcome, Inc. As an ongoing supporter you may also elect to receive our email updates, including our monthly newsletter.

One-Time Donor

We are thankful for any financial assistance we receive. One-time donors who give at certain levels are eligible to receive a free gift depending on their level of donation. Gifts may include things like t-shirts, tote bags, and even an autographed copy of Judith Ann Hillard’s book The Other Woman at the Well.

Gift Certificates

Since we provide practical assistance to families who are touched by addiction, we welcome your contributions in the form of gift certificates to restaurants, grocery stores or similar establishments.

Become an Affiliate

If you are a business owner and would like to become one of our affiliates, please contact us. In exchange for promoting your business on our site, you would donate a portion of any resulting sales to Addiction Overcome, Inc. Another option is to host a fundraiser at your establishment during which you agree to donate a portion of the sales to Addiction Overcome, Inc.

Shop Our Merchant Affiliates

Did you know you can donate to Addiction Overcome, Inc. without spending any extra money? When you shop with our Affiliates by clicking on the links provided on our site, we earn a small commission on the purchases you make. The next time you find yourself wanting to purchase new tunes for your iPod, come to us first and click on our iTunes affiliate link. Thinking of buying your husband some new tools for Father’s Day? Shop at Interstate Batteries via the link on our page and receive a discount. Time for new pet food or cat litter? Do your shopping at PetSmart, but do it through us. You’re not only getting the things you need, but you’re helping a good cause.

Non-financial Donations

We are always in need of donated items such as clothing, office supplies, non-perishable food, and toys to meet our outreach goals. During the holiday season in particular, we select families in need to be the recipients of gifts and meals that they would not have otherwise.

Need more information?

Please feel free to contact us at AddictionOvercome.Inc@gmail.com if you have any questions about how to donate. We love to get feedback from our supporters and are appreciative of their efforts. Without you Addiction Overcome, Inc. could not carry out its day to day operations.