Betty Ford

The chemical dependency counseling community has seen some great people and one of those is Betty Ford. 

"Betty Ford touched thousands of people’s lives in the most positive and empowering ways.  Her openness in discussing breast cancer and addictive disease made it more than okay for women and men to ask for help.  The Betty Ford Center honors her vision every day.  We keep her memory alive for every family seeking to change their legacy.

Since her passing last July 8, Betty Ford has been eulogized by thousands of people around the world. The conversations Betty began about treatable illnesses continue to this day.  Betty described herself as “… an ordinary woman living in extraordinary times.”

This “ordinary woman” was petite, accessible, funny and determined.  Betty was so proud of the Center and was often on campus meeting with patients.  When she was in the Coachella Valley, she presented a monthly lecture to the patients and endeared herself with remarks like, “I know how to justify addiction.  My prescription bottle said not to operate heavy equipment, and I wasn’t even driving, so there was my green light to do what I wished.”  To the patients and staff – she was simply Betty.

Although the administrative and clinical policies at the Center were important to her, Mrs. Ford’s heart was first and foremost with the patients.  She lived within minutes of the campus and made many after-hours trips to visit with and calm frightened patients who were considering leaving against medical advice.  She also came to the first 25 anniversary celebrations, always available for conversation and reminiscences with former patients and their family members.

As much as she belonged to her family and to the world for her contributions, she belonged to the patients whose lives became whole again after their stay at the Center.  She was often approached by alumni who tried to thank her, and she would gently say, “You did this.  You made the decision to leave that old life, and you deserve everything you have today.”

I join thousands of alumni, current and former Betty Ford Center employees and countless others in fondly acknowledging this “ordinary woman” who left an extraordinary legacy.

You may view the tribute book and add your own reflection if you wish."

Source: http://www.bettyfordcenter.org/recovery/featured-home/remembering-betty-ford.php

Today you can be the seeds of change by taking a look into the chemical dependency counseling field. Centaur University offers one of the fastest certification programs to help you become a chemical dependency counselor and start making a difference!