January 2021 Newsletter

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Born Addicted

Drug babies develop under the influence of mind altering substances that affect their abilities in different ways including: attention, problem solving, language, academic achievement, emotional functioning, behavior regulation, and the child’s own future drug use. Mike was abandoned in the back seat of a car at two-weeks-old, as his mother ran from police. He went to foster care. When Mike was three-years-old, his foster father got a new job in a different state. His foster parents moved, but Mike was still a ward of the state and could not go with them. Mike became catatonic, having no communication, reduced movement, and increased agitation, confusion, and restlessness. Three months later, his foster parents returned and Mike started talking again. He was adopted by them at seven and remained until 18. Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) was treated with Ritalin, a stimulant medication, until he graduated from high school. Withdrawal from that drug, Mike said, “left a confusion, could not think straight, mind not working, not focused.” Replacing the stimulant medication with illicit drugs is all too common, and it causes problems with behavior, relationships, employment, incarceration.

Mike is now 43-years-old and has struggled with all of these issues. Through no direct fault of his own, he has had to cope with a disadvantage in life. On three separate occasions over the years, he has utilized services at the Mission. He has worked in mills, logging, and auto mechanics. His present job is in construction supply. When he has needed the opportunity to restart his life, the Mission has been here for him. Mike said, “The Mission is a solid stepping stone of which to get out of where I am at. It is a pillar in a stormy ocean. It is solid and a roof over my head, where otherwise, there would be none.”

Attending Christian school was a part of Mike’s upbringing. Faith has helped him manage life. Mike said, “I have a personal relationship with Jesus. (Mission) Chapel reminds me there is still a light out there.” We are the continuation of the household of faith that helped him through childhood. Now as an adult, the same Gospel Truth is a part of his Mission family.

Making a productive life, when one has an inborn affliction, is challenging. It can be mistaken for a condition of choice or consequence of behavior. It is a matter of being a victim of someone else’s actions, yet cannot be an excuse for not taking personal responsibility. We were not able to stop Mike’s mother from using drugs while expecting him, but we can be here now to help him find his way in life.