Ruby Lechak wanted one thing: to be the perfect wife to her husband Andrew, and the perfect mother to her four daughters. She was attentive, loving, caring and maintained the household.
But with great responsibility, came great pressure. After a few years, she caved. Ruby began to do drugs and quickly became addicted to cocaine. Her personality drastically changed for the worse. To fund her habit, Ruby resorted to theft. The mother of four was eventually charged and convicted of home invasion.
For the last three years, her family has dealt with her absence. It hasn't been easy, but Andrew remains a devoted husband and father. The family has moved closer to the prison, Andrew is working two jobs to make ends meet, and although it's difficult, the girls are working toward forgiving their mother.
Meanwhile, Ruby is sober, has good behavior in prison, and is a part of an inmate program to become a better mother. ABC Nightline is shining a light on the Lechak family's predicament and other mothers in prison.
Many of the mothers in prison are there because they hurt their abusers or because they struggled with addiction. Many regret their choices and are seeking a better path.
On this special day, Ruby, as a reward for her good behavior, gets to visit her daughters. They can hug and hang out together, instead of speaking for just a few minutes.
While these women must be held accountable for their actions, Ruby's story reveals how forgiveness and empathy are intrinsic to rehabilitation.
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