A Trace Element
by
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If I ever needed my Marlboro Light 100s, this was the moment. I head outside to curbside to collect myself. I take a long drag. What do I know about cocaine? Not much. How could this possibly happen to someone like me, pretty much a lightweight, never drink more than two or three beers, never liked marijuana when I tried it in college 25 years ago.
Knowing I would be subject to random drug testing was the easiest part of entering an airline career. I didn’t have to give up anything. I hadn’t thought twice about my random test last week. When my number is up, I pee in the cup and head for home. I have been drug tested three or four times before and it was no big deal–a minor inconvenience at the end of a trip for which flight attendants receive $10 in pay. I tossed my copies of the paperwork on the bedroom dresser that night and forgot about it. I may have mentioned in passing to Roger that I had a drug test. It is time to march! In a fog, I drag myself to the gate and check in for my last flight home. Do all these people know what is wrong here? I turn around to see two crewmembers I've been traveling with for the past two days, Pete Wolbart and Michelle Bertapelle. Until we arrived in Miami, it was a relaxing and enjoyable trip. Pete is a cool guy, proud father of two. All month I’ve enjoyed hearing stories of his two boys. His three-year-old Kevin had dialed up 911 one morning. Pete's wife was surprised when the police showed up at the door. Pete had showed me pictures and plans for the backyard playhouse he would build this summer. Both Pete and Michelle are easy to work with. They are competent at the job and I’ve known them both for five or six years. I feel comfortable with them. I’d trust my life in their hands in the event of an emergency. I don’t know them outside work but it’s been an enjoyable two days. Michelle and Pete had checked on board the airplane, looking for me. They were worried about my mysterious and sudden departure. "I’m being sent home. My random drug test from last week came back positive for cocaine." We stand there in a state of disbelief. Across the gate area, the ticket agent at the jet bridge door waves impatiently. It is departure time and he is ready to close the door. I hurry on board, walk all the way to row 26 and slide across two empty seats to the window. White-faced, I can’t hide the grim, sinking feeling in my gut. I feel like I’ve been punched in the stomach. I don’t feel much like "Something Special in the Air." Since Michelle and Pete already had been on board, the working crew knows something is amiss. I’m wearing the same crisp white shirt, blue uniform and gold wings, pulling the familiar crew luggage. We’ve never met before, but there is an immediate sense of concern for a distressed coworker. They finish their safety demonstration and stop at my row. When they ask, I tell. I have nothing to hide.
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About the Book
This true story about drug testing in the airline industry shows how an innocent person falls prey to corporate insensitivity and government rules. A random drug test shows traces of cocaine. But there is a grave mistake, putting at risk a man’s reputation, career and dreams. The ensuing fight to uncover the truth and clear the flight attendant’s name weaves drama, emotion and humor together in a story that shocks and informs. A Trace Element moves the reader from tears to outrage while questioning the science of the drug testing designed to ensure a so-called drug-free workplace. An elusive search for justice is fraught with misinformation and complications. Where does the buck stop, who can you trust and how do you protect yourself? A Trace Element is personal and compassionate memoir, a testament to truth and courage. This is a must-read for anyone who is subject to drug testing.
About the Author
John Ritter is a graduate of St. Cloud State University, St. Cloud, Minn., with a degree in mass communications and political science. A former magazine editor and newspaper writer in Minnesota, he is the recipient of several prestigious journalism awards. He joined a major airline as a flight attendant in1990 and travels around the world. He lives on a farm in middle Tennessee with his partner of 12 years and a menagerie of horses, dogs and cats.