Navy Veteran Greg Sanchez's life was at rock bottom. His drinking was out of control. He was hospitalized 6 times in one year for alcohol poisoning. He was "couch-surfing" and living on the streets. Arrested, incarcerated and facing serious felony criminal charges, Greg asked himself. "What is it that I am living for?" That was in 2018.
After a great deal ofsoul-searching in jail, Greg answered that question. "You have to say that life is worth living," Greg said. "I did." He believed his life was worth living.
Today, Greg has almost 4 years of sobriety and is married to a wonderful lady. He will be graduating with a bachelors degree in history from the University of California, Riverside, this year and plans to pursue a Masters Degree in Public Administration.
"For those of you listening, I can tell you that I understand what every phase of alcoholism looks like," Greg said. "There are enormous amounts of resources available to help you. There are allies, people who will not judge you, and I am one of them. You just need to ask for help."
Greg is a successful graduate of the Riverside County Veterans Treatment Court. He recently addressed Secretary of Veteran's Affairs McDonaugh on veterans issues. Judge Johnson: "I trust this man. I have seen him in a jail jumpsuit. And I have seen him devote his life to helping veterans and other alcoholics. He is epitome of both rehabilitation and why we need veterans treatment courts.
Any questions for Judge Johnson or Greg, please email them to mejohnsonauthor@gmail.com. Thank you.