JACLYN'S STORY

What are the signs of heroin use?

Jaclyn’s older brother, Robby, brought light and energy to every room he entered. He loved sports, lived for adventure. He wanted to be in the military, and he cherished his family. He was the life of the family and Jaclyn’s best friend.

In October 2011, Robby died from a Heroin overdose.

It all started after Robby had his wisdom teeth removed. His brain remembered the feeling the prescription painkillers provided. Not to worry, right? Hey, a doctor prescribed them. But that memory of the opiate high proved to be the demon that would lead Robby to Heroin addiction as he grew older.

Robby would battle addiction for the rest of his short life.

Jaclyn and her twin brother knew their older brother Robby had a problem. His moods were different. Robby's bright personality had gone dark. Robby slept a lot. He fought with their parents. His behaviors had changed.

Looking back, Jaclyn wishes she had told her parents about Robby's addiction sooner. It would be hard to break the news to her parents that their son is a Heroin addict. Worse yet, she feared if she told, it would betray the trust between her and Robby, a trust that was sacred.

Eventually, things got worse and Jaclyn did share her concerns with her parents. Once she did, it focused the family’s energies on trying to help Robby through this battle. She would do anything to have gotten him help sooner. Maybe things would be different. Jaclyn knew her brother didn’t want to be an addict. She has learned that addiction is a disease, and Robby couldn’t fight it alone. Jaclyn shares her experience to help others.

Tell your parents. Tell your friends. It may be the ultimate act of love and friendship.

If you know someone using Heroin get them help, because as you will learn from Jaclyn, you cannot fight addiction alone.

Just tell someone.