Blue columbines: A mother's story of broken dreams

The effects of drug abuse on families are tragic and epidemic. The mother of a long-time drug abuser, I tell my family’s story in the hope that other family members, especially mothers, may find something they need in my experiences. Addiction is a baffling disease, one that meets those of us who are not addicted to substances at the level of our understanding. Because family members often feel so isolated in their grief and so frustrated with the family dynamics, I believe that the sharing of stories can elucidate and validate another’s experience. I offer no clear-cut answers--only my story, which as yet does not have a happy ending. But I offer my experience, strength, and hope. Keep what you like and leave the rest.