One-Size-Fits-All Rehab

Dear Editor,
    I wanted to let you know how much I appreciated your article [“Rehabilitation or Torture?” News, May 23]. I live in Dallas, and I have a son who is in the Substance Abuse Felony Punishment Facility for Special Needs unit in Huntsville. He suffers from a head injury and I am so very concerned about his ability to handle the stress of this program. My letters to his judge have fallen on deaf ears, but I hope this report will open up the lines of communication.
    I would like not to think that our judges and lawmakers actually know what is going on.
    I feel like I can represent both sides here. My son was assaulted 13 years ago by a young man who was intoxicated at the time. This man almost killed my son. He suffered a massive subdural and epidural hematoma and suffers mental illness as the result of his injury. Over the years, he remains depressed and has turned to alcohol and drugs himself.
    I certainly see the need for a substance abuse facility, but I don't think Gateway is the answer for all. It might work on some young kid who just needs a "boot camp" environment; but it is not for everyone – especially someone like my son.
    Thank you, again, and for the work you are doing to bring this to the attention of the public.