In response to a growing need for addiction treatment, Community Medical Services has opened a new Colorado clinic in Aurora. The clinic, located on Del Mar Parkway, is part of their efforts to improve access to resources in underserved communities.
Walking into CMS was the best decision Richard Tafoya ever made.
The 38-year-old father, and soon to be grandfather, started using at 14.
“Meth, heroin, cocaine, fentanyl. It’s going to lead you to two places, resting in peace or resting in prison,” he recounted, emphasizing the fear of judgment that often prevents addicts from seeking help. “You have to hit rock bottom to want to change.”
His turning point came in 2016 when he faced prison time for meth distribution.
“I lost time with my son, which was devastating,” he shared. “In prison he said, ‘Dad, I want you to be the father that I deserve.’ So, I’m here to be that father he deserves.”
Another Community Medical Services clinic opened on Exposition in Aurora two years ago. They’ve served over 1,600 people.