It has been 6 years since my son passed away. I remember this day so vivdly. His addicition really had him in it’s grips by this time. I didn’t know how much more his body could take this abuse.

I just look back at pictures of when he was little- so vibrant, such a beautiful boy. Drugs are from the devil- directly from the devil.

There are so many events that I wish he was here to share with me. But I know that this lifetime is a mere breath in comparison to eternity. I know that I will spend eternity with my family and my son and that is where my hope is.

I will spend the rest of my earthly life trying to educate the young ones and help those whose lives have been affected by drug abuse. It takes a community to make a difference. I have taken the first step and I am hoping others will join me. www.pathway2wellness.net

Tomorrow is our first fundraiser for Pathway to Wellness. Pathway to Wellness is a committee of the Homeless Shelter. We are planning to expand the homeless shelter and include a drug and alcohol rehab. This rehab will be available to anybody- regardless of your income! Zach had friends who are still addicts. Heroin is cheaper and more accessible than ever. When an addict wants and needs help, there isn’t any inpatient/ intensive program available in our community.

I am hoping that my fundraiser will be well attended. I believe my community is beginning to see the drug problem is real. I am continuing to talk to kids in schools about the dangers of drugs and giving them tools to make wise choices and how to say no.

An Autumn Odyssey- Saturday, Nov. 5 from 7-10 at The Tuscarawas Center for the Arts. www.pathway2wellness.net

This story is so similar to Zachary’s story. Copy and paste this to read the full story: http://www.cantonrep.com/carousel/x1968432278/Parents-of-addict-share-cautionary-tale