09/04/2026
Today was an especially meaningful day in our 81st Judicial District Mental Health Court as we celebrated a “Phase Up” for two of our participants. 🎉
These are the days that remind me why this work matters so deeply. As a judge, I have the privilege and responsibility of seeing people at some of the most difficult points in their lives and then watching them work, grow, persevere, and begin to see a different future for themselves.
Mental Health Court is not about lowering expectations. It is about believing that accountability and opportunity can exist together. It is about setting goals, doing the hard work, taking responsibility, and having the courage to keep going when progress is not easy.
Today, we celebrated hard work paying off. We celebrated goals achieved and progress made. Most importantly, we celebrated two people who are choosing to keep moving forward.
I am incredibly proud of these participants and deeply grateful for the team, families, treatment providers, and community partners who walk alongside them. Every phase represents progress. Every milestone represents perseverance. Every success is a reminder that change is possible.
As a judge, these moments are among the most rewarding parts of serving our community. There is something incredibly powerful about watching a person regain hope, rebuild their confidence, and take ownership of the life they want to create.
Today was a celebration, but it is not the finish line. There are more goals ahead, more progress to make, and more opportunities to succeed.
Two participants. One important milestone. One more step closer to success. And a whole lot of hard work worth celebrating. ⚖️ 💚
(Photo shared with permission)
