Mike Nestoruk R.I.P.

Mike Nestoruk, a severely disabled 41-year-old-man, represents everything that is wrong with our society's attitude towards people with addictions. Homeless, and dependent on a wheelchair to get around, as he had only one leg, Mike was recently found murdered in an elementary school. Mike was also well known in his local community as having struggled to overcome addiction.

Like so many people with addictions, Mike had suffered countless losses. Yet he worked hard to regain his life, to reconnect with his two children, from whom he was estranged, and to support others with disabilities to cope with addiction and poverty through his work with the BCPA.

I hope that Mike has finally found the peace he sought through his addiction, and send my condolences to his family, friends, and all who will miss him.

Until we begin to recognize the humanity of people with addictions, people like Mike will continue to suffer. There is help available, but you must advocate for yourself to get the treatment you need.