Some peoples’ lives serve as an example and others as a warning. While the “warning” ones are more difficult to live with, they often produce strength in the others who have lived with them – strength to determine to not ever be like them.
If you have ever wondered who works in a drug and alcohol treatment center and why they would choose that sort of a job, you might like this news story from the Independent which told a bit about the life of Connie Holmes. Her father was addicted to drugs and alcohol and she decided at a young age that this was not going to be her life.
“My dad was a chronic alcoholic and a smoker and he was addicted to pain medication,” she said. “When I was pretty young, I decided I was not going to use those things. That was the best way to not have that happen to me.”
Not only that, but Connie also chose to help others who are affected by either their own or their family members’ addictions. Since 1983 she has worked in various capacities at the Central Nebraska Council on Alcoholism and Addictions. From secretary to executive director was a long road, but it was one built on experience. She describes the experiences as “painful at times, but it’s rewarding when you see someone turning their life around.” She cares for people and helps them to find the resources that they need to get them through, whether it’s reading materials or agencies to contact.
The Hall County Chief Deputy Sheriff Chris Rea describes Connie thus: “She’s committed to the communities CNCAA covers. I met her when I joined the board and I was thoroughly impressed. Her commitment is second to none. In my 27 years in law enforcement, her commitment ranks right up there.” He adds, “And she’s a super nice lady, personally as well as professionally,” he said. “I just can’t say enough good things about her.”
Co-workers describe her as loving children, believing in what she is doing, and being a person whom they can count on to get things done.
With tears in her eyes, Connie said, “I hope we can make a difference in people’s lives. That’s what it’s about for me.” She added, “We’re a resource to help. There’s no shame, no guilt. We want people to find help. Too many people suffer for too long.”
The “addiction cycle” can be broken, as Connie will testify.
