Published: December 02, 2006 11:32 pm         

Mothers Against Meth, other groups work to combat epidemic

TERRE HAUTE — Susan Gehring is joining with mothers of methamphetamine users in an attempt to help combat the meth epidemic in the Wabash Valley.

Gehring has started a branch of the group “Mothers Against Methamphetamine” in an effort to educate people about meth, how to intervene in addictions, provide support and let parents know how to detect drug use in their kids.

“I think we’re just going to get to know one another. Discuss what’s working, what’s not,” she said.

Gehring, a nurse of 28 years, says she’s been directly affected by the powerful narcotic and has seen what meth can do to users and families.

“It’s a helpless feeling,” she said. “I’ve bawled; I’ve squalled; I’ve sat. I wondered if there was anything called ‘MAMa.’”

Gehring, 55, of Terre Haute performed an Internet search on “Mothers Against Methamphetamine” and discovered the organization existed nationally. It was founded in 2002 and has two chapters in Indiana, she said.

“I typed it in, and there it was,” she added. “I thought I’d hit Terre Haute. I can’t do this by myself. I’m looking for other mothers to help take the reins with this.

“… It’s a choice to start [using drugs], and it’s a choice to end it. You not only have to have the power to do it, you have to have the power to stop it.”

Laura Followell can be reached at (812) 231-4253 or laura.followell@tribstar.com.