George Vogel's Path: Transforming Lives through Addiction Treatment
It's the most treatable disease that there is, meaning that treatment, once treatment occurs and takes hold, so to speak, and recovery continues, the restoration of body parts that were damaged by the use of alcohol or drugs can, can heal, it reverses, yeah, it can, wow.
Imagine a job where you see the same faces return, time and again, not because they want to, but because they can't escape a cycle. George Vogel, the executive director of the Council on Chemical Abuse (COCA), found himself in this exact situation.
Starting out with the State Employment Office and later working with people on probation and parole, George noticed a common thread among those struggling to hold down jobs: nearly all had a history of drug and alcohol addiction. This realization sparked his passion for helping this overlooked segment of the population. In this episode of 'Your Bridge To Addiction Resources', George shares his journey from observing these patterns to actively making a difference.
He recounts how the Berks County Prison Warden, George Wagner, took a bold step by establishing a drug and alcohol rehabilitation program within the prison. This initiative aimed to break the cycle of re-entry into the prison system by addressing addiction head-on. Years down the line, these programs have shown significant results. George passionately believes that addiction is the most treatable disease there is.
He emphasizes that with the right intervention, people can transform their lives, reducing the likelihood of returning to prison. The episode is filled with stories of hope and resilience, highlighting the profound impact that treatment and recovery can have on individuals. George's narrative isn't just about statistics or programs; it's about real people finding their way back to a fulfilling life. He shares touching moments of seeing individuals smile again, grateful for the second chance that treatment has given them.
This episode is a testament to the power of compassion and dedicated support in overcoming addiction. Whether you're personally affected by addiction or looking to understand it better, George's insights offer valuable perspectives on the road to recovery.