When it comes to the history of drug abuse and alcohol addiction, one of the most influential and inspiring figures is First Lady Betty Ford (1918-2011). The wife of Gerald Ford (the 38th President of the United States), Mrs. Ford exercised her authority as First Lady to the benefit of nationwide health and confidence. After her husband assumed office, Ford was diagnosed with breast cancer and revealed her condition to the public. As a result, thousands of women suffering from the same problem were inspired to seek proper medical treatment. However, many people today still remember Ford for being a prime example of overcoming addiction. Let’s take a closer look at the accomplishment of this amazing lady in the field of rehabilitation and recovery.
Influence as First Lady
Following her announcement of her breast cancer diagnosis, Ford also spearheaded further studies in women’s medicine and treatment and was an incredible campaign partner for her husband. In fact, due to her husband’s problem with laryngitis, Ford delivered his concession speech after Jimmy Carter replaced President Ford (who had lost the previous election). While some politicians argued that Mrs. Ford’s views were too spontaneous (shifting from conservative to liberal and back again), she was still an immensely popular public figure.
Addiction and Treatment
During the early 1960s, Betty Ford was taking prescription opioids to alleviate pain from a pinched nerve, but she had successfully ended her chemical dependency on these medications once her husband became president. Once she left the White House, however, Ford started to suffer from alcoholism and started taking opioids again.
Angered over her return to abusing these substances, she decided to take control over her life once more. At one point, Mrs. Ford stayed at her home and underwent a carefully monitored detox before enrolling herself in drug and alcohol rehab programs at the Long Beach Naval Hospital. As part of her residential treatment, Ford underwent emotional therapy, cohabitated with other women, and cleaned the facility’s restrooms. After her released, the former First Lady once again announced her ordeal to the public.
Inspired by the success of her rehab program, Mrs. Ford decided she should help other people overcome their problems with alcoholism, drug addiction, and substance abuse. In 1982, at the conclusion of her recovery, she developed the Betty Ford Center, dedicated to helping people (mostly women) battle addiction and substance abuse.
Always remember that alcohol and drugs do not have control over your life. You do. Are you suffering from a substance abuse disorder or addiction? Do you have a friend or family member suffering from one or more of these debilitating illnesses? If you do, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our counselors and healthcare experts are ready to walk you through every step of the detox and withdrawal process and rehabilitation and guide you towards living a happier, healthier, and freer lifestyle. While the road to recovery might not be an easy road to travel, we promise to help you every step of the way. Take the first step to stay fit, healthy, and safe.
The time for you to take back control of your life is now. If you are interested in one of our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how to overcome your drug addiction and substance abuse troubles today.
