Following a brief ceremony on Friday, April 10, resident Evelyn Gausepohl officially graduated from Enotah Family Treatment Court inside the Union County Courthouse, where she received proud smiles from Judge Wil Maxwell and applause from family, friends and colleagues.
As she was called to the courtroom podium for the last time, Gausepohl was invited to turn and face the room rather than the judge to share that she had been sober for over two years and two months. During that time, she has turned her life completely around.
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“I’m the mother my kids deserve. Most of all, I am the person I deserve to be,” said an emotional Gausepohl, recognizing that although she had reached her goal of graduation, the real work of maintaining balance throughout the rest of her life had just begun.
Even so, she is ready to face it because of the help she received along the way to becoming the best version of herself. It stood to reason, then, that she thank those who made that difference.
First up was Judge Maxwell, whom Gausepohl was grateful for “genuinely caring” about the wellbeing of the troubled families he sees passing through his courtroom.
To the Court Appointed Special Advocates for children shedding happy tears, Gausepohl said she appreciated the fact that they not only fought hard for her children, but for her. She thanked others for treating her “like a human” and showing “kindness and compassion,” even at her lowest moments.
Gausepohl made sure, too, to express her gratitude to the Thompson family from Cumming, Georgia. The Thompsons took in her children while Gausepohl underwent treatment for her addiction.
For their special care, frequent updates and boundless support, Gausepohl was incredibly thankful. She also recognized her boss for understanding her situation, and her lawyer for “always fighting” for her and being her “voice.”
And then, Gausepohl received her own praise. Maxwell and others touted her as someone who understands how to lead by example, thereby inspiring other parents in the program to keep the faith and work through adversity.
Another trait Gausepohl was praised for was her bravery, being a person unafraid to stand up and make a difference in the Family Treatment Program itself by providing valuable feedback.
Between her husband, children, mother, mother-in-law and even a former teacher, Gausepohl received cheers, applause and a few gifts before all in attendance were invited to partake of refreshments.
Gausepohl was happy to pose for pictures and enjoy the celebration, but her favorite moment by far was getting the opportunity to take a photo with her children, with whom she was incredibly proud to be reunited.
