Ricky's Law: saving the lives of addicts
- Samantha Stewart
- May 10, 2016
- 2 min read
Anyone who has ever had a family member, friend, or loved one suffer from depression or addiction understands the pain and agony that derives from trying to help them. As hard as you try and no matter how many times you hear "I'm going to change" even your best efforts usually fall short because in the end it is ultimately their own decision to turn their life around.
For several years I experienced the grueling heartache of watching my cousin Sara battle her addiction and sadly, she lost her battle this past January at the very young age of 23.
Over the years I remember seeing her in so many different states of mind as well as receiving countless
late night phone calls begging for help. Members of my family had tried to help her by bringing her to rehab facilities but in the end her addiction always won and she would leave the facility on her own within a day or two.
Under Washington State Law, it has been illegal to involuntarily commit someone who is a hazard to themselves to a rehab facility. Addicts have had to be willing to commit themselves.
That is until Ricky Garcia, a former drug addict and suicide survivor, pushed for a bill to be passed with the help of his best friend. Ricky's Law, passed in March of 2016, allows involuntarily commitment for addicts and those suffering with depression if they are at risk of harming themselves.
"It's a beautiful feeling," Garcia said regarding the passing of the bill, "because it's going to save lives, and that's what's most important."
If Ricky's Law had been in place when my cousin was suffering, I know that she would still be here with us today. Most addicts want to get better, they just don't have the strength or confidence to do it themselves. Involuntary commitment to a rehab facility will absolutely save the lives of those struggling.
Supporters of Ricky's Law celebrating the passing of the bill.
My uncle is in the white button up shirt directly behind the chair. :)
Since the passing of my cousin Sara, my family has been avidly following the trail of this bill in full support. I can speak on behalf of my entire family when I say that the happiness and relief that came from the passing of Ricky's Law was overwhelming.
It's a great feeling to know how many families potentially will be saved from the distress of a confused, sad, and helpless addict in their lives.
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