Submitted Photo Grahame Ross, right, stands with his wife, Sara, and three boys, from left, Zach, Nick and Liam. Ross celebrated 10 years of sobriety on April 16.
I was under 10 years old the first time I drank. I was 12 the first time I tried marijuana. I was 15 the first time I tried methamphetamine.
By the age of 19, I was using meth regularly. By 21, I was using it every day. By 25, I knew I had a problem, but I couldn't shake it.
In November of 1996, when I was 26, I was busted for possession - pot and meth - after almost crashing head-on with an off-duty sheriff. I remember the ride out to Yerington thinking, "This isn't me. I'm better than this."
In 1997, truly by the grace of God and the help of the justice system, I started down the path to recovery.
I spent 30 days in rehab and then lived in Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous meetings. I was mentally unstable, and when I felt like I was going to jump out of my skin, I found a meeting or called my sponsor.
I had to get away from ALL of my old friends. I got on my knees and asked God for help. I went to sober functions put on by NA and AA. I got phone numbers from others in sobriety so when I was down or feeling squirrely I could call someone.
Today, I have a beautiful wife who means the world to me and whom I love dearly. We are raising three boys who challenge us daily, but I love them with all my heart. My family is my will to live.
I have a good job that allows my wife to stay home to be there for the boys. Most of the time I feel exhausted from work, the fire department where I'm a volunteer firefighter and family. I'm tired, but I'm very blessed.
Believe in a power greater than yourself. Face your fears and accept responsibility for your actions.
Open your heart and mind to others who are willing to help. Embrace the positive side of life. You CAN overcome addition to methamphetamine.
My name is Grahame Ross, and I am a drug addict. All I have is today, and so far, I'm still sober!