She has seen these women lose their children to the child welfare system, with prosecutors and judges alike overwhelmed by the "impulse to punish them for the sin of addiction." One of her students penned the statement "Addicts are like rats or bottom-feeders," expressing openly an attitude she believes many harbor but keep under wraps. In recovery since 1998, she may have been on the receiving end of such comments. Cathy greatly appreciates the second chance treatment has afforded her and intends to continue giving back through the Advocacy Leadership Program.