Jessica Trickett, a chemical dependency counselor with Amethyst Inc., recently spoke to 8th grade students at McDowell about her personal and professional experience with prescription drug abuse. In talking with the students she dispelled myths about the problem, educated students about the dangers, and shared her personal story. Trickett is in recovery from addiction to prescription pain killers.
Students reacted positively to her message with some sharing of their own. They especially responded to her personal story. One student commented that it was good to have her because some kids start using drugs during middle school. Others hoped that her presentation would keep students from trying drugs.
The presentation was made possible from a donation to the Logan Elm Education Foundation by the Ohio Pharmacists’ Association. The association was honoring Circleville business owner and pharmacist, Larry Shieber for receiving the Cardinal Health Generation RX Champions’ Award. He had worked previously with McDowell students on a project related to prescription drug abuse and wanted to continue to keep students informed about the issue.
