A relapse

The call came just after 2 a.m.

Colleen answered to a calm voice telling her Billy had been found in his car, off the road in a ditch. He was alive and on his way to the hospital.  She moved quickly, calling Billy’s mom to come stay with the kids—just to be there while they slept and to get them ready in the morning. Then she headed out the door.

At the hospital, the news came in pieces—cuts, a few fractures, nothing life-threatening. He would be okay. Then, more quietly: drugs were involved.  Colleen stood still. He had lapsed. Billy lay bruised and sleeping. For a moment, everything else faded. Then it all came rushing back—appointments, school, work, bills.

Her next call was to Maureen, a friend she and Billy had known since high school. Maureen urged her to call their health insurance plan—they could explain what was covered and give her in-network treatment options.  Colleen stepped into the hallway, phone in hand, and found the number on the back of the card.