Letters Page #758

Subject: RE: #111, SIOUXZE
From: Ana_v@email.msn.com
Date: Jan. 22, 1999

I for one wholeheartedly agree with SIOUXZE. I feel that my life isn't my own. People look down on you, even medical professionals that should know better. Yes, methadone did save my life, but I have traded one addiction for another. It seems impossible to detox off of this drug.

Everywhere I turn, doors are slammed in my face. I can't even get a decent job because once they do a urinalysis and find methadone, that's it, they won't hire you. They won't say it's because of the methadone, but it is.

I recently heard of rapid withdrawal. I was so thrilled to even imagine having my life back. I called only to find out that the cost is outrageous, they don't accept any coverage, and no payment options. I am a single parent. That would have been my life saved, and returned to normal, but impossible to attain.

Methadone is easy to go into, but it is a trap when you want out. Heroin has been out of my life for nearly 10 years now but I fear I will go to my grave looking for a way out of methadone. I feel it has served its purpose. I will always be grateful for what it helped me achieve which was freedom from heroin, but now, what will help me achieve freedom from it? I can't go "cold turkey" because my daughters depend on me for everything, they are only 11 and 4.

Thank God I found this web site. I can read about other people from all over the states and the world, with similar situations as mine. We are all in this together and should be able to advise and relate to each other. Thank you for allowing me to vent.

Ana_v@msn.com