I just returned home from a “virtual” first oncology appointment with a friend. In the midst of the international COVID crisis, my friend now has to deal with the fact that her time on this planet is limited. She is confronted with that “if you had one year to live” scenario.
It’s really hitting me hard and making me reflect on several things. It’s amazing how one experience can completely change your perspective.
Cancer is an Equal Opportunity Disease
Cancer is often not preventable. It can strike anyone young or old, rich or poor, famous or not famous. It’s one of those sad facts of life. Hopefully, there will be medical breakthroughs and a definitive cure someday.Substance Use Disorder is Treatable
Addiction, on the other hand, is a disease we can do something about. It’s true that there are no magic cures and it’s very difficult to combat, but it IS treatable. Millions have overcome this brutal disease through the decades. Now more than ever, there are many evidence-based options for treatment. There is a fit and path for anyone and everyone when they are ready and willing to try it.Personally, this experience with my friend has made me think that I would not want to be in a position someday and think “if I hadn’t….” or “if I only had…”
UNDERSTANDING ACCELERATED OPIOID DETOX
Reflecting on Substance Use Disorder
Think about your addictions and how they may play out in the future. Are you potentially shortening your life? Are you setting yourself up for a painful, preventable end of life? Do you and your family deserve better? Are you willing to go to any length to rewrite your own story?This is a particularly good time for reflection. If nothing else, we all have time on our hands. Treatment for addiction is available and possible. We at the Coleman Institute are here to help. Reclaim your life. As they say in the AA promises “We will not regret the past, nor wish to shut the door on it.” Let us help you find YOUR path to recovery. Schedule a call below.
Deborah Reich, MD
