Recovery walk supports those on journey from addiction
Addiction is a complex disease, but those who overcome the struggles that often come with recovery can learn to love themselves.
Ken C., 41, of Butler said the first 10 years of his 15-year recovery were fraught with relapses, but he is finally able to say he loves himself.
“I feel blessed to be who I am,” he said Saturday before dozens of people set off on the Butler County Recovery Walk and Picnic in Butler Memorial Park.
Hosted by the Butler County Human Services' Drug and Alcohol programs, the free event featured a cookout, music, activities and games to let people of all ages celebrate those in recovery and those seeking it.
Ken C. said he came from Mercer County, but he learned that there are people who care in Butler County.“There are more people that care about you and want you to do well,” he said.He said he had difficulties growing up, but he doesn't like to use that an as an excuse.After seeing a friend die from an overdose, he said he started trying to recover. He said he would be clean for a year, but relapse.That sequence repeated itself for 10 years until he learned that he could be happy without being intoxicated and his recovery gradually took hold.“Recovery is cumulative,” he said.Director laudedCounty Commissioner Kevin Boozel commended Donna Jenereski, director of the county's drug and alcohol programs, for how she runs the department and keeping the commissioners apprised of what the department needs to function.Help for people fighting addiction should be easily obtained, said Boozel, who worked for more than 20 years in social services.“There can be no wrong door,” he said.
He thanked people in recovery for coming and thanked those who support them for helping.“You're making Butler County a better place just by being here,” he said.Joel Benson, pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church in Butler, applauded the efforts of Jenereski and the commissioners before leading the gathering in the invocation.
