Hello everyone. I am a sister of Joel and Jackie's, and believe me I used to think that was NOTHING to be proud of.
I have enjoyed reading the information on this site and felt that I needed to send a little note of my own.
As some of you may or may not know, Joel is not involved with "The Program" anymore, and has not been for quite a few years. I am proud that he finally found the will and strength to leave and to start a normal life. I completely understand about some of the grudges that are being held against Joel, but as we all know, he fell victim to the Newton's as did many of you. Trust me, I have just as much resentment and disgust towards "The Program" as any of you, afterall it took away my brother AND sister from me! and transformed them into something that was unexplainable and downright embarrassing.
But....for anyone who still has a loved one involved with the Newton's.....I can tell you that there is hope. I always prayed that Joel would eventually come back to our family, and he has. He is a wonderful and loving brother and father....and I thank God that he is straight and alive!
Yes...I could hold grudges against him for the past...but where is that going to get me? Brotherless for another 10 years...NO THANKS!
It was not easy to forgive and forget all of the events that occurred BEFORE and AFTER his program days, but I did...and because of that..I have a brother whom I adore.
As for Jackie, all I can do is pray for my two nephews, whom I have never met before!
I sincerely wish all of you the best of luck...and may Dr.Fig Newton rot in his blue chair!!!
LOVE YA!
Claudia Messaros C******