After sitting staring at the phone that would not dial itself, I finally got the courage to try to call again to talk to Greg's counselor before he leaves the New Directions addictions program in Asheville. We know he is only a couple of more weeks before being shipped back to Tabor, until who knows what is next and we were pretty worried he'd land back into not much of anything, no opportunities, gang banger haven, arrgh. Greg asked if Mr. Shade would speak to us and learned he needed to sign a release even though we had POA, so he did, and I am grateful for the advice here to follow through and call.
Mr. Shade was a surprising nice guy to talk to. I could tell he was uncomfortable that I called and didn’t know what to expect. Greg had warned him that if he signed the form I would indeed call. I think he was surprised that I actually did. So I asked how Greg was doing in the recovery program. I asked if he saw any other issues, physical, mental, emotional and as I have seen with my eyes, Greg is doing great, he said those exact words. I can’t express how comforting it was for me to hear confirmation that he is doing well.
We discussed what opportunities could be available after this program is over and what things are in the way of getting them. We talked about how I may be able to help research resources, offer correspondence courses if there is a gap in training due to the time he has to serve and so many other things. I told him how much safer I felt with Greg in this facility but of Greg’s understanding that there is no program at Craggy to explore that will serve his growth and keep him motivated. He asked me if I would like Greg to stay there, I never thought it was an option. I felt he listened when I said Greg will do well if he is kept busy and feels productive and he chuckled and said that while Greg was in his office when he turned his back Greg reorganized his book case (OCD) but he wasn’t mad, said it was needed and he was grateful.
He ended with two real important things. He said he wished I had called earlier before the staff meeting so he could have had all this information to share with the case manager and the team. He ASKED ME to call next Tuesday afternoon because he now WANTS to explore best options for Greg’s time inside. Secondly, he said he has NEVER had another parent call him to explore other ways to support their son to be successful in the system. He told me how very lucky Greg is to have us. I also let him know that I feel very lucky to have a son that is willing to make the best of his time and take responsibility for his bad decisions and learn everything he can about the lessons he now is presented with in the next many years.
I would not have considered I could call, I have felt so very powerless. You ladies have given me strength, experience and insight for which I am and know I will continue to be grateful. Thanks to you ladies that talked about contacting counselors, case manager and etc. at the prison. I’ll let you know what happens.
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Thank you for sharing your story
Greg called today to tell me that his case manager and counselor are recommending an extension at the facility and we should know next Tuesday. I made a difference. OMG I can't believe it, my tears are from hope today.