About Veronica C. Yost Expertise I can provide information regarding crack addiction, drug user life style, why they do what they do, visual differences between crack and crystal meth, what effects crack has on the body (long term), what crack looks like, what to expect when someone stops/starts using, effects after drug use has stopped, how long it REALLY takes to recover, what family members can expect of their loved one during drug use and recovery process, why recovering addicts sometimes turn to alcohol or pot, how to talk to your children about this drug before they ever touch it. I won't answer obvious questions about how to make or use crack. I won't describe how to make crack pipes but I will help a parents, guardians or family members identify a pipe, paraphernalia and the drug itself. Since pipes can be very sneaky looking and sometimes without a smell I will answer those questions also.
Experience I spent many years addicted to crack. I lived in multiple crack houses with a number of high level drug dealers. I produced (made) crack for specific dealers. I had a $1000 a day habit and spent over $70,000 in one year on crack. Coming off drugs and alcohol was the most difficult thing I have ever done. I also feel extremely blessed in that it was a drug dealer that actually started me on the road to recovery. Every girl is the crack house I lived in was "hooked out", they never did that to me. I don't know why but I thank God for all the blessing along the way. It is not easy and it is hard to quit but I had to learn and realize that I will go to my death bed wanting this drug. But I will be damned if I EVER give in to it. It is a daily battle that never goes away. After 2 years my family physician told me that had achieved something great and I should be proud. Only 3% of the drug population that quit crack (without rehab) actually stays off the drug. I have been clean for more than 2 years. I believe everyone is different regarding treatment and if possible should consult a physician.
Question I have had 6 knee surgeries and now have a titanium back.
It is very likely I will need a knee replacement in a year or so.
I am stuck on Oxy, fighting a seemingly impossible battle.
It took me two years to recover from the back and I have been hooked up on opiates for about 7 years.
The fact that the last 6 months has went well and I finally have a job that works with my pain. Losing my job and sleeping on the streets hardly seems like an alternative to getting off the drugs i hate so much. they own you. Your doctors own you.
I cannot get out of bed without them.
This catch 22 problem that most people hooked has to have a resolution. We are in the 21st century. We cant kill pain with anything else? I have to loose a job i worked 2 years to get to detox, only to have a total knee replacement next year or sooner. What do you do.
I am only 44. HELP
Answer Well Jeff,
It is an unfortunate situation you have found yourself in. I suppose the doctors have tried non-narcotic pain relievers? I had to have both hips replaced and 2 knee surgeries but I simply refuse to take an opiate, I hate them so very much. I am heading for my first spinal surgery in a couple months and will address my pain the same way. Try sitting and talking with your doctor and explain your hate for these opiates and what they are doing to your life. Sometimes pain can be debilitating but you can control a lot with your mind and attitude. I am not trying to diminish your problems but only trying to give you an alternative.
Your doctor certainly has other options for you and I can tell you the knee replacement isn't that bad with ice and non-narcotic prescription pain killers. I do feel bad that you have been set down this path and agree it is a catch 22 if you let it be. I wish I could offer more advice than this, sorry. But this info is what I do everyday, I refuse them, not because of the addictive qualities but I just don't like the way they make me feel.
