An Inspiring Story on Inauguration Day

 

While all of our eyes may be focused on today’s Inauguration taking place in our nation’s capital, I wanted to take a moment to share an inspiring story of a newly elected Washington state legislator.

Tara Simmons, a former nurse who struggled with substance use disorder and served 20 months in prison for drug-related crimes before attending law school and graduating with honors in 2017, was recently elected to the state legislature in Washington state. She is a former nurse who struggled with substance use disorder and served 20 months in prison for drug-related crimes before attending law school and graduating with honors in 2017. Simmons was initially denied entrance to the bar due to her felonies, but fought that in the Washington Supreme Court and won unanimously.

What we can all learn from Simmons’ story is that we should not let stigma or barriers people may place upon us get in our way. At the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey (PDFNJ) we promote living a healthy lifestyle and substance-free lives for today’s youth, but we also advocate for ending the stigma associated with substance use disorder.

I believe Tara Simmons’ message to everyone, but especially our youth, is that there is always hope and opportunity. In light of these turbulent times, I think this is an important lesson to share.

Continued wishes to stay safe and well. And on this historic day, wishing that our country is filled with peace and prosperity.

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