Megan ScottMichael Elliott Mystery Series Box Set by Sandra Nikolai

Author:Sandra Nikolai [Nikolai, Sandra]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Vemcort Publishing

17

Something past its due date came to mind as I shook hands with Ed Finch. His sunken eyes and pallid skin reinforced that impression, as did an oversized suit that would have hung better on a metal clothes hanger. He motioned for Michael and me to sit in the vinyl chairs facing his desk while he lowered himself into a threadbare armchair across from us.

“I've been medical director at Onward Home for the past two decades.” Ed puckered his thin lips. “I can't boast a one hundred percent success rate, but we've come close. We give newfound hope to people who’ve lost sight of it.” He grinned, revealing smoke-stained teeth.

I gazed past him at the wall where framed diplomas hung. Two diplomas were from well-known Canadian universities. Other certificates were from institutions like the National Academy of Higher Education and the Distance Learning Quality Assurance Agency. I didn't recognize these names, but each certificate included an official-looking gold or red seal like the ones hanging on the walls in the outer corridor.

Ed went on. “Michael, I understand you’d like information about our programs for an article you’re writing on drug rehabilitation.”

“Yes,” Michael said. “Tell us how your system works. Who are your most common applicants?”

Ed tapped a pile of papers with his bony fingers. “Many of these applications are from drug users who feel isolated but are determined to kick the habit and make a new start. Therapists, physicians, and other consultants that work with Onward Home are tasked to review and assess each application.” He smiled with pride. “Since we’re financially limited and depend on government handouts, we can only accept a certain number of applicants for our programs. It's a difficult choice.”

“What happens to the applicants that you reject?” I asked him.

Ed raised his lean shoulders in a shrug. “They sometimes reapply at a later date. That is, if they survive their drug habit.” He paused. “Michael, you mentioned on the phone that you and Megan were also researching the fentanyl crisis.”

“Yes, that's how your company name came up,” Michael said, twisting the truth a little. “I’m hoping that my article will help to promote institutions like yours, which might encourage more government funding for your cause.”

“I like the sound of that.” Ed joined his fingers and grinned. “How can I help your research?”

“Give me examples of the types of people that you accept as candidates.”

“We have a wide range. It spans from homeless people to professionals who are trying to beat the drug habit.”

“I have a friend who completed a tour of duty months ago,” Michael said. “He was injured and is trying to get off a fentanyl habit. Would he qualify for your program?”

“Definitely,” Ed said. “Since the sponsored funds we receive are limited, we like to accept candidates who are already covered in part by government health programs. Military personnel would qualify in that respect.”

“Are your courses held in this office?” I asked him.

“Oh, no,” he said with a chuckle. “They’re only offered online.”

“How do

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