6 years

[goodmom809]

I first posted in this forum six years ago.  I was frantic with worry for my 21 year old son who was addicted to heroin.  He went through rehab at The River Source in AZ.  I'm happy to report that he has been clean for six years this month.  I am so proud of him.  

Ry has said that he doesn't buy the AA line that he is not in control.  He says that HE kicked this and HE is the one who stays clean on his own.  It was his choice to use and it is his choice not to use.  I'm not bashing AA or NA, because I know many people have been helped by those programs.  Just reporting what the kid says!

[dominosarah]

Congrats on the 6 yrs clean to you both!!  Sounds like whatever he is doing is working for him.  Is he involved any type of aftercare?

[pillguy]

This seems to be a delicate subject here.  I've never disparaged AA/NA.  Many people seemed to have been helped by them.  I do not agree that I can't stay clean on my own.  The responsibility for my actions rest squarely in my lap.  I have no argument the concept of aftercare.  I think it absolutely enhances a person's prospects for staying clean but AA/NA is not for everyone.  There are other formal programs for aftercare and aftercare doesn't necessarily need to be formal.  I've posted here for two reasons; to help others and to help myself.  I've done a number of other things to attempt to enhance my recovery.  I've quit hiding my addiction.  My family is aware of my addiction.  The doctors are aware.  I recently had knee surgery.  Simple stuff, a scooping.  This was not my regular PCP.  I made point of telling him of my past.  We did the surgery without need for narcotics.  So what is my point?  AA/NA is an effective tool, but it's not the only way to get and stay clean

[jifmoc]

Hey goodmom- while I'm glad for your kid, I do not agree whatsoever w/ him re 12 step programs. Since he's not on here saying that, I'll just leave it at I'm glad you are pleased.