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Dirty-South Blues Harp forum: wail on! >
Heroin Costs World Famous Harp Player Everything
Heroin Costs World Famous Harp Player Everything
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Frank
4170 posts
Apr 21, 2014
6:14 AM
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Not sure if this was posted here ever...but at this time a year it is a great reminder of good against evil and how we all must stay diligent when waging war against the enemies that seek to destroy us :)
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Georgia Blues
122 posts
Apr 21, 2014
7:18 AM
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Thanks for posting Frank. And thanks to Jason for have the balls to share his battle.
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Alex
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GMaj7
398 posts
Apr 21, 2014
7:28 AM
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That story nails it. The transition from scripts to heroin is seamless. Good on Jason Ricci for coming clean while getting clean. That's good objective reporting right there.
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Greg Jones
16:23 Custom Harmonicas
greg@1623customharmonicas.com
1623customharmonicas.com
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root
16 posts
Apr 21, 2014
7:53 AM
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A couple guys from my home town moved to San Francisco in the '60s and got hooked. another friend went out to visit, and they told him " If you do heroin, only do it once, and never do it again, which you will". That always stayed with me.-Greg
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WinslowYerxa
563 posts
Apr 21, 2014
12:12 PM
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The good news is that Jason has been staying clean and also dealing successfully with his bipolar disorder. The bad news is that the legal troubles that resulted from his behavior while off the wagon continue to box in his musical career. Once he works through those problems, he should be able to take flight.
Jason is a highly creative, highly motivated and enterprising individual, in addition to being supremely gifted musically. at the same time, he's generous and sharing, and has a genuine desire to cultivate talent and spread knowledge.
I have enough faith in him to partner in producing two successive Harmonica Collective events. The first was a great success. The second, coming up May 28-31, promises to be equally great. (there's still time to sign up . . .)
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Winslow
Find out about the 2014 Spring Harmonica Collective!
SPONSORED BY
Find out about the 2014 Spring Harmonica Collective!
SPONSORED BY
Lone Wolf Blues Company
Rockin’ Ron’s Music For Less
BlowsMeAway Productions
Slim’s Custom Cases
HarpGear
Seydel & Soehne
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JustFuya
86 posts
Apr 21, 2014
1:28 PM
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I have no doubt JR has what it takes to persevere. Guts and 'real' friends.
Last Edited by JustFuya on Apr 21, 2014 4:11 PM
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NiteCrawler .
287 posts
Apr 21, 2014
2:04 PM
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@root I had a friend tell me the same thing after he did it yrs ago.Its a really big problem here at the jersey shore which has been for a while but alot worse in the last yr or two, ocean county is almost leading the state in od,s.Its seems like every other week young and older people,male and female are dying from it.As said in the report they start with the oxy,s and when they become unavailable or too expensive they opt for the deadly heroin,its a downright epidemic and a sad one at that.Three yrs ago a kid strung out on dope robbed our house and stole 37 yrs worth of my wifes jewelry that I had gotten for her through the yrs and took it to a we buy gold shop a couple of towns over.The we buy gold shops(certain ones) are worse than the addicts as far as I,m concerned because they,re about greed and profit opposed to addiction not caring if it will be the persons final mainline as long as they make they,re money.Here in the good ole state of jersey they are allowed to melt it down within 72 hrs and thats what happened to the jewelry as well as two other familys that we know(we didn,t know we were robbed until after the meltdown).I,m happy that Jason is seeking the help that he needs but it will no doubt like alcoholism its a lifetime struggle. I have a very close family member who is 17 yrs clean from it and when hitting hit rock bottom lived in a salvation army homeless shelter for a spell and then got the help she needed.The person fortunatly is very successful now and still goes meetings to share her story when she can.Unfortunately I think she is of the minority when it comes to success stories after 6 yrs of use.I wish you all the luck in the world Jason, your time will come again brother,the world is waiting for you.HarpSpeed,NiteCrawler
Last Edited by NiteCrawler . on Apr 21, 2014 3:52 PM
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Frank
4176 posts
Apr 21, 2014
2:34 PM
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double post
Last Edited by Frank on Apr 22, 2014 4:19 AM
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DukeBerryman
352 posts
Apr 21, 2014
3:29 PM
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Shame the man can't leave the state - would be good for him. And the South Side of Chicago is on the border with Indiana...
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Barley Nectar
359 posts
Apr 21, 2014
5:56 PM
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Hey Moon Cat, your lookin good dude. Hang in there...Goose
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atty1chgo
898 posts
Apr 21, 2014
6:51 PM
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The demons and "enemies" are within. I heard a lot of excuses in the video, but in the end, it is a personal battle, not the fault of others. The best of luck to him.
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sydeman
109 posts
Apr 21, 2014
7:28 PM
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The end of the second part..
Recovery Is A Long Road
Addictions counselor Mark Graeser says people are becoming addicted to heroin after shooting it up just three times.
“They’ve chosen a path because at some point they did choose to experiment. They chose to use something recreationally- they chose to abuse a substance – but that choice quickly evaporates and its no longer a choice for them,” Graeser says.
Health professionals say on average it takes an addicts eight attempts at treatment before they really recover and stay clean.
This is Ricci’s second attempt.
Now six months sober, he works at the Recovery and Engagement Center in Bloomington and says that Indiana has actually been a good place for him to get his life back together.
“I’ve accepted it as sort of an insulin to a diabetic,” says Ricci. “I can say truthfully, if I do those things everyday for the rest of my life I will never get high. But I can’t tell you that I will never get high again,” he says.
Ricci will be able to leave the state again in May, but he’ll likely stay a little while longer.
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Moon Cat
379 posts
Apr 21, 2014
7:37 PM
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I figured this would find it's way here eventually. Unfortunately it has gotten more attention at least immediately, then the Harmonica Collective threads have, but dope and the recovery or the lac there of, have always made great sensational headlines. This video is actually a two part deal…this is the first. Much of the video, as any discerning, media familiar, individual will realize is "spun". That being said ,over all, I think they did a good job. I was bummed on the New Orleans/geographic blaming and additional "woman" blaming that came off in the vid, Im not exactly a specific and direct speaking individual when subject matter is at hand and I tend to speak "train of thought" and in convoluted and tangential manner (long before drugs) so Im amazed it came out this good! I assure anyone reading or watching that the blaming of New Orleans and Charlotte (The girl) are "out of context" and NOT consistent with the many other interviews I have done on this subject both in video and print prior to and after this one. The truth as most of you know is, I was an addict prior to NOLA, was in recovery before, don't know and don't care if genetics were at play, I made choices and have had to pay for them. I have quite simply had a problem with any and all substances I have ever put in my body from day one. It (Recovery) is of course a life long process and a daily (for me) reprieve that remains contingent upon a series of things I must do every day to better insure myself against another relapse. After nearly 12 years of sobriety (Aug 26 1998-2010) I learned the hard way that this can happen to anyone and that relapse is a process not an event. I don't blame New Orleans, Charlotte Belz, My Dad, a city, the road, the band or even Bi-polar disorder for any of it. I blame my relapse on ego, lac of humility, arrogance, searching for external sources of happiness: Physical, sexual, financial and beyond rather than looking within or to something greater for relief and answers. Thats what I work on today, every day, one day at a time. I participated in the video for one reason and that is that: if only one person makes the decision not to get high, or one already addicted person hears my story, hears how far I fell and believes that maybe they too can get clean then it was worth it. Thats all. It's not attractive, it's not romantic, sometimes it was fun, sometimes it was exciting but it was all very real and very scary and is every day a living nightmare that I often wish I could erase from my brain. I brought all these things on myself. At first it was curiosity ( Bird, Miles,Hendrix,Joplin etc) later it was an actual physical need. Noone knows when they start wether it's a joint or a needle, if they will be the type that feels better just holding it in their hands, if they will be the type that can't stop once they have started (no matter how much discipline/will power they have displayed in other areas of their lives), if once stopped at last, if they will obsess on it in their minds even though the damage from the last use to others and themselves was devastating and irreversible…It's a crap shoot, a roll of the dice. Of course harder drugs like heroin and crack make those chances higher but I was hooked from my first drink of a stolen beer at age 13. It can happen to anyone and the meetings I go to, again now, remind me of this every day, black, white, rich, poor, lawyers and janitors alike share the same stories every night without having ever met each other.
I have had some amazing friends to help me along the way! Winslow Yerxa, Adam Gussow, Nick Moss, Walter Trout, Pat Ramsey and many many more that are not relevant to the harmonica forum here, have been with me and there for me while I was in and out of active addiction. I'm lucky to be alive, to be free again for the moment and most of all to be loved for who I am as a person (not a player) by so many incredible listeners who so cared and loved me in their own ways throughout all of this. I have lost many dear friends to addiction and I mourn them everyday.
Last Edited by Moon Cat on Apr 21, 2014 8:04 PM
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Moon Cat
380 posts
Apr 21, 2014
7:53 PM
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The craziest thing is that the medical community (shrinks/therapists and doctors) insist that addiction is a side effect of Bi-polar disorder and that through the right medication and cognitive behavioral therapy that these symptoms will subside…All the while on the other side: Much of the "12 step fellowship" insists that the Bi-Polar disorder is a symptom of untreated alcholism/addicition and that through a "Higher Power" I can relieve any and all symptoms of that. This is perhaps the most frustrating part of any dual diagnosis! This is what dosen't get talked about and the warring between the two different schools leaves the patient/recovering individual confused. Like: lip pursing VS tongue blocking, like soul VS technique, I have been trying to find the truth in the middle/combination. Below is a video from my most beloved and most missed friend. I met him when he was only 15, I was living with Billy Gibson in Memphis. Sean was Billy's Guitarist. Sean Died April 15th 2008 from BOTH bi-polar disorder and addiction and it is impossible and pointless to choose/blame one. I miss him very much, his friendship, our talks and his music. There is a void in me ever since his loss that has never been OK. I don't want anyone to have to feel that because of me and hope none ever will. Nothing is promised, it's one day at a time, sometimes one hour at a time or finer. Thank you to everyone that has supported me, forgiven me, tried to understand how I did the most illogical things or ever tried to suspend judgement of those behaviors during or after. I feel so much love from the world today and this blues/harmonica community has been a huge part of that. It is and always has been my PRIVLlDGE to be a very human part of the harmonica world. Giving it away to keep it, Thank you!-Jason Ricci
Last Edited by Moon Cat on Apr 21, 2014 7:58 PM
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JustFuya
92 posts
Apr 21, 2014
7:54 PM
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I think it says a lot when his true buddies are willing to travel and gather for a visit. I'd like to think that they do so not because of what he's done or accomplished, but because he is what he is: a decent fallible human being with amazing talent; one who has had more collisions on his path than most of us have driven bye.
If I had one piece of advice it would be this: Don't run from the hugs. And less importantly, never end your sentence with a preposition unless it is a misspelled 'by' and you double it.
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jbone
1595 posts
Apr 21, 2014
8:18 PM
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Jason, it takes real courage to disclose at the level you have. You are spot on with what you say and what is at the core of addiction. I am fortunate to have not had a relapse in all the time I've been clean and sober. It's been close a time or two! But the daily maintenance aspect of recovery has saved my bacon when coupled with work with others and in the 12 steps.
I wish you the best life has to offer and you are not alone on the road. May it lead to peace, happiness, and a great set of tools to live life!
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http://www.reverbnation.com/jawboneandjolene
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100000386839482
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wa7La7yYYeE
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Slimharp
312 posts
Apr 21, 2014
8:26 PM
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Keep up the good work Jason, you are worth it. I went out after 21 years, thank God I made it back. Going on 2 years now. Lithium Carb, decent diet and sleep work wonders. ODAAT or finer. Thank you for your experience, strength, and hope. It works, if I allow it to.
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Gnarly
989 posts
Apr 21, 2014
8:40 PM
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Glad yer still with us Mooncat and good luck with the upcoming Collective event!
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WinslowYerxa
566 posts
Apr 21, 2014
9:36 PM
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JustFuYa sez: "I think it says a lot when his true buddies are willing to travel and gather for a visit. I'd like to think that they do so not because of what he's done or accomplished, but because he is what he is: a decent fallible human being with amazing talent; one who has had more collisions on his path than most of us have driven"
That's a nice sentiment. But if you're referring to the Harmonica Collective, that's NOT what it's about. At all.
Jason and I do this because we believe in giving harmonica players the tools to play well. This isn't about a big hug for Jason. This is about some of the best players and subject experts on the planet giving harmonica players something of value by transmitting their knowledge, understanding, and counsel.
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Winslow
Find out about the 2014 Spring Harmonica Collective!
SPONSORED BY
Find out about the 2014 Spring Harmonica Collective!
SPONSORED BY
Lone Wolf Blues Company
Rockin’ Ron’s Music For Less
BlowsMeAway Productions
Slim’s Custom Cases
HarpGear
Seydel & Soehne
Last Edited by WinslowYerxa on Apr 21, 2014 9:39 PM
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CapnKen
55 posts
Apr 21, 2014
9:58 PM
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JR hang in there man. Hit the reset button, you've done it before.I know it can't be easy to allow your personal life to become public knowledge but I respect that about you as much as i do your ability with the harp. ( which is incredible).
At some point we find ourselves caring as much or more for the individual than the musician. I think we should all buy one of his cd's and help a brother out. I know im going to.
Your looking good, much healthier. Best of luck to you.
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LINK
"Blues with a vigor and determination hitherto unknown to the people of this area." Mudflap Nichols
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JustFuya
94 posts
Apr 21, 2014
11:21 PM
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WinslowYerxa:
I stand by what I said. I was just sharing feelings based on my personal experience with abuse AND Indiana. I saved a life in that beautiful region of plentiful water and daily clouds. It's a nice place to visit for about 2 weeks in a year; before the bugs and the humidity and after they have left. One week each.
The life I saved is a lifelong friend and a Cal Poly educated mechanical engineer. He called me for instructions on how to kill himself. He was working in a flute factory in Elkhart at minimum wage. I almost sent him a CAD drawing of a chair and noose. Instead I sent him an invitation to CA with cloudless skies. He is still kicking after 15 years. I booted him out within 2 weeks but at least he was homeless in better weather. Now he is comfortable in San Diego.
I know your gathering is more than a group hug. I wish I could be there! Other than this forum I have never been in a group of harp players in my life. I've always been drawn to accompaniment rather than fellow harp players. I've reaped a ton of information from this site but I know there is nothing like being there and doing it.
I wish you the best. Because I can't attend, it will not be perfect for me. I know it will be perfect for all those who are able to make it to Indy. The event falls within one of those 2 perfect weeks.
Cheers!
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Gipsy
58 posts
Apr 21, 2014
11:48 PM
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Jason, I can't clIm to know you, but I would like to wish you all the best as you make your way down the rocky road of recovery. It won't be easy, but by acknowledging the problem and sharing it with friends you've taken a first massive step down that path. There will be many temptations, and you may have the odd stumble along the way but remember the mantra ' never give up giving up ', repeat it to yourself over and over again, and get back on the road when you can.
As an example of what can happen think of Eric Clapton, who I would suggest has had his best and most productive years since getting clean.
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nacoran
7694 posts
Apr 22, 2014
3:02 AM
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Comorbid is the word they use to describe overlapping conditions. It's got medical roots, but it sure is a depressing term. I have, over the years, fought depression, anxiety and OCD, and sometimes the medications, complicated by a learning disability. At it's worst, I was living in my car, in what seems like a lifetime ago. I know people who have it worse. One of my very best friends, a guy I've known since middle school, has been in in patient recovery twice for alcohol this year. We always knew he drank too much but somehow he was always the rock of the group. An ex-girlfriend mine called me around Christmas and didn't make any sense- she'd gone off her meds, a kid I do work with at my mom's house was just inpatient and now is diagnosed bipolar.
It's a crazy world. All we can do is try to get the right support around us. I've got a history of mental illness in my family, and I like to think it doesn't run my life anymore, but it sure takes a lot of energy sometimes. All the best Jason.
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Nate
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The Iceman
1598 posts
Apr 22, 2014
6:10 AM
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Jason bravely posts " I blame my relapse on ego, lac of humility, arrogance, searching for external sources of happiness: Physical, sexual, financial and beyond rather than looking within or to something greater for relief and answers. Thats what I work on today, every day, one day at a time."
The issue I had personally with Jason oh so many years ago was, having grown up street smart in Detroit, I clearly sensed all the danger brewing negatively within at the time that most were applauding Jason's abilities.
However, I am totally behind Jason's current path. Knowing many who experienced the same demons over the years, this type of struggle is perhaps the hardest personal challenge, as it NEVER ENDS.
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The Iceman
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Brendan Power
430 posts
Apr 22, 2014
11:43 PM
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Like others on the list, I really admire Jason as much for his searing honesty and openness as for his fabulous harmonica chops. You're an inspiration on both counts, Moon Cat!
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groyster1
2588 posts
Apr 23, 2014
8:27 AM
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Jason is one of the many reasons I am so glad I found this forum...he brings so much to the table....he certainly has the support here,which is very deserving
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The Black Pit
9 posts
Apr 23, 2014
11:16 PM
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Kicking dope isn't easy, but it can be done. I know, because I've been clean for 20 years. Methadone and counseling turned me from a lying, thieving scumbag addict that hung out in the worst parts of the South Bronx and Washington Heights (when I wasn't locked up), to a stable, generally happy MFer that's enjoying life. It CAN be done Jason, don't let anyone tell you otherwise. Stay strong brother, I'm pulling for you.
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bloozefish
169 posts
Apr 24, 2014
9:27 AM
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regarding the 12-Step vs. medical/psychiatric views....
Bipolar Disorder is a physical/chemical disorder of the brain, and will require medications along w/ therapy to control. However, as they tell you in the 'rooms,' addiction is physical, mental, and spiritual, and IMO 12-stepping is the best treatment.
I have been diagnosed quite awhile back with clinical depression, and am an alcoholic. When I got sober 8 years & 9 months ago, the question came up. The old-timers said that if a medical doc prescribes meds, one should take them, even in and after recovery. Dual diagnosis means dual treatment, and I don't think they conflict.
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