PRESS CHRISTMAS FOR ALL: Mom overcomes alcoholism for daughter
“Heather” was six months into her recovery from drug addiction when she learned she was pregnant.
She immediately quit smoking and drinking, but on the advice of medical providers, she continued taking the prescription medication she used to treat her substance use disorder. As a result, her newborn daughter had to detox from the medication after she was born.
“Watching her go through this really made me feel horrible,” Heather said. “I was really hard on myself, which added to the postpartum depression I was going through.”
With no family in the Coeur d’Alene area and a contentious relationship with her baby’s father, Heather struggled to adjust to being a new mom. She spiraled into depression and began drinking again.
One night, Heather drove drunk with her daughter in the car. She was arrested and charged with driving under the influence. Her daughter was placed in a foster home.
It seemed like Heather’s life was over. But that night turned into a new start for her.
Heather pleaded guilty to the charge and entered Kootenai County’s DUI Court, a voluntary post-conviction program for people who have an alcohol or substance abuse problem.
The program was created to give offenders an opportunity to enter recovery and address their addiction. Heather did just that.
Not only did she stay sober and commit herself to completing the DUI Court program, she regained custody of her daughter.
Heather said one of her greatest achievements was being sober for her daughter’s first birthday. She continues to attend weekly Alcoholics Anonymous meetings.
“I feel like a new person,” she said. “I am really looking forward to raising my daughter sober. I’m grateful for the DUI Court team for walking me through this journey and I am thankful for all of my blessings from God.”
During her recovery, Heather struggled with transportation to court dates and other obligations. She didn’t have access to a reliable vehicle.
But after a recommendation from DUI Court, Christmas for all paid for repairs to Heather’s car, making it possible for her to attend court, get to work and safely transport her daughter to and from day care.
Each year, Press readers donate generously to Press Christmas for All. Every penny raised is distributed to Kootenai County residents. All overhead costs are covered by The Hagadone Corp.
The gift recipients are our neighbors including families with young children, the elderly, people with disabilities, veterans, the homeless and those with mental illnesses. Many who seek assistance from Christmas for All are working but unable to make ends meet, especially with the dramatic increase in the cost of living in Kootenai County.
Beneficiaries of Press Christmas for All keep their dignity while the community provides a hand-up to help get them back on their feet. They are asked to pitch in a little bit toward their award to remind them of their capacity and resourcefulness. The “co-pay” is small and calculated on a sliding scale of income, but ensures these neighbors actively participate in their award.
Press Christmas for All is managed by The Hagadone Corp., with assistance from CharityReimagined.Org. Christmas for All is a legally recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit.
Here are four ways to donate:
• Mail a check to Press Christmas for All, 215 N. Second St., Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814
• Call The Press and make a secure credit card donation over the phone: 208-664-8176
• Visit cdapress.com. Click on Christmas for All and make a secure, online donation.
• Drop off your check at The Press weekdays between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.: 215 N. Second St. in downtown Coeur d'Alene.
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