Seventy-seven Successfully Complete Substance Abuse Treatment
at WestCare California
May 26, 2004

Tears and testimonials filled Fresno’s Westside Seventh-Day Adventist Church during WestCare California’s commencement ceremony on Sunday, May 16, 2004. Beaming family members, friends and WestCare representatives looked on as Vice President Shawn Jenkins and Board Chairman Tanner Tingey presented diplomas to 77 men, women and adolescents who have recently completed substance abuse treatment programs at WestCare’s facilities in Bakersfield and Fresno.

Many of the graduates shared triumphant stories with audience members. One tearful young mother thanked WestCare staff for helping her grieve her son’s death.

Despite having suffered a stroke while in treatment, another woman proudly walked across the stage to receive a diploma as her children looked on. “I’m back,” she told them.

“Treatment works, recovery happens. WestCare is the best care,” exclaimed a joyous graduate.

After spending 28 years in prison but now drug and crime-free, the day’s events were especially significant for one man: his elderly mother was in the audience. “Recovery rocks!” he exclaimed after Jenkins and Tingey congratulated him on his accomplishment.

Keynote speaker Commissioner Nancy Cisneros of Fresno County Superior Court received numerous acknowledgements from graduates for playing a key role at the county’s drug court. Many of WestCare’s clients are referred from the court system.

“As a volunteer, I don’t think there is any greater reward than celebrating with all of the people we’ve helped choose recovery,” said Doris Michaux, former Fresno County human services department administrator and WestCare board member of 12 years.