Drug Program Celebrates 30th Graduate

By BOBBIE GREEN

The Progress

The Mesquite Municipal Court “Breaking the Cycle” program graduated its 30th successful participant on Tuesday March 28.

Initiated in 2015 by Judge Ryan Toone, with support from the city, community and criminal justice partners, the program works to break the repeating cycle of addiction to alcohol and drugs.

Since that time, the program has had 67 participants, nine currently in the program. The program has seen eight drug-free babies born to mother participants, as well as the 30 that have graduated.

Break the Cycle is a difficult program, but it is effective. In general, the graduates will have over 500-days of sobriety, maintained employment, improved their skills and their relationships with loved ones.

Last week’s graduate Daniel, took time during the ceremony to confirm the effectiveness of the program. He said that all the many people involved with him – from Judge Toone to other participants – served as an inspiration to him.

Daniel explained that two years ago, two people he loved had passed away. This sent him into a downward spiral, he said.

He came to Mesquite where is parents live. But after getting a DUI charge, Daniel appeared in Judge Toone’s court and was offered a chance to participate in the Breaking the Cycle program.

Daniel told of his thoughts and feelings while meeting with the program staff. Daniel called the program requirements daunting. These included daily check-ins, group meetings, a smart monitor device. “It was like a full-time job that happens around my full-time job,” he said.

“I was so busy with work and program requirements I did not even realize the changes happening within me,” Daniel said. “I have been transformed. I now see three major changes: I have direction in my life to seek beliefs and goals; I have clarity of mind to see connections and focus, and growth continues for my achievements.”

“With the wisdom I have gained here I now have a sense of pride and integrity,” Daniel said. “But also there is humility. I have been told many times how smart I am, but if I am so smart why did I end up being here? No matter what trauma you suffer in your life, your substance of choice does not make it go away.”

Daniel ended his speech with how happy he now is, how helpful everyone and this program has been, and how he is willing to help others.

Daniel was given gifts donated from local business, and a handmade quilt that is always made by a benefactor of the program and given to the Cycle graduates. He also received a gift card from the Rotary Club of Mesquite