Most of us share a common goal: we want to make a difference in this world or impact someone’s life in a positive way. Even though that sounds like a daunting task and we scramble about where to even begin, we can be inspired by those who have gone before us. Read More →

It’s a truth universally acknowledged that any teenager desires to have fun. Everybody wants to have a good time, to enjoy themselves. But do you need a drug to get you there? Is it true that a party can’t be a party unless everybody there is on ecstasy? Let’s reconsider. Read More →

I just watched the movie My Name is Bill W, and I was really impacted by this brief representation of Bill W’s life. It was so hard to watch him get drunk over and over again and to apologize over and over again. One of the best scenes is when Bill W explains his thoughts to his wife, Lo (see video clip). He wonders outloud why he drinks---he argues that he wants to be normal and explains how he tries to stop--but he ends with the insane reality that despite all of that--he still really just wants Read More →

Former NBA star and stand-out Fresno State point guard Chris Herren talks about his drug addiction and recovery. “Truth is, I should be dead,” he says in the interview with CNN. “[I am alive] by the grace of God, 12 steps, and my recovery program. If it wasn't for people extending their hand and offering me treatment and staying in treatment, I probably wouldn't be here today.” Read More →

We’ve all heard the tragic news about Whitney Houston’s death. Sadly, she is being added to the list of countless others who have died from drug overdoses--Heath Ledger, Michael Jackson, North California teen Takeimi Rao… The sadness we sense at their loss, though, might cause us to reflect on some important reminders in our lives. Read More →

Remember the first time you walked in and heard your oldest child explaining something to her younger sibling—maybe like where Santa Claus really comes from? Did you get a twinge of pain when you realized your child was no longer running to you with her questions? But I’m guessing that pain didn’t last too long. In fact, it was probably quickly replaced with pride and joy that your little child was growing up (at least enough to be able to explain away Santa Claus). Sometimes authority-to-teen relationships are effective, but sometimes, teen-to-teen relationships are more effective. Right here in Napa Valley, California, teens aren’t waiting for adults to tell them about the dangers of drugs and alcohol. Rather, they’re warning their peers and friends to live healthy, successful lives.  And they’re being recognized for their efforts. In 2011, the County Alcohol and Drug Program Administrator’s Association of California (CADPAAC) named Napa County the recipient of their 2011 Alcohol and Drug Prevention Award. What are they doing to make a difference in their friends’ lives? Read More →

Duffy's is a family business for a family issue. And the stories prove it. Periodically, we like to share these stories with you on our blog. Today's story comes from a Dec 19th entry in our online guestbook:    Read More →

Being addicted to something isn’t always bad. In fact, sometimes addiction to a noble goal or cause can push us to accomplish what we never thought was possible before. The other day, someone sent me this YouTube video about Todd Crandell who spent 13 years in a drug and alcohol addiction spiral. But in 1993, Todd chose a new addiction—the Ironman Triathlon. Read More →