He flunked out of Arizona State and started using marijuana and cocaine. For a time he owned a deli in Woodbridge, N.J., but he had to sell it because of his gambling debts. He lost touch with family members, stopped playing sports, and gained 50 pounds. He joined Gamblers Anonymous after his girlfriend walked out on him. Yet Ray was luckier than some young chronic gamblers.
Money is used as a tool to keep playing.
When they're gambling, all their problems disappear. They don't deal with work problems, money problems. The key is escape. Loomey and others are pushing for more education in public schools, so that gambling awareness will be taught in health classes alongside other addictions. He is hopeful that the New Jersey legislature will approve a K-12 curriculum this winter.