2/18/2013 9:02 AM
I don't want anyone to think I am making light of what is a serious addiction. It is real and unfortunately, working for a casino operation, I hear horror stories everyday. I have heard way too many stories of people losing their houses, wives, families and are still looking to win it back. It was just shocking that it is someone I grew up with. I can gamble and walk away. In fact, I have a hard time sitting down in the first place and risking my hard earned money but to others it is the rush of the risk that keeps them going. In Maureen's case it sounds a great deal like numbness from losing a powerful husband and to other powerful friends that were major influences on her life, namely Helen Copley, a news paper giant and Joan Croc of McDonald's fame. They basically shaped her life and along with her husband, all three died within a short period of time. Add a brain tumor to the empty feeling of loss and you have a recipe for tough times. She made personal choices but I do feel for her and her family.