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A family prepares to throw balloons in honor of their loved one. Balloon release is an annual tradition of recovery. (Kat Badger | For the daily reporter)
HANCOCK COUNTY – Rick Truscott wrapped his hand around the cord and slowly raised the microphone to talk about his brother, Greg Truscott
Greg, 50, of Greenfield, died unexpectedly on October 21, 2019, the victim of an addiction he could not overcome.
“No one chooses to be addicted or alcoholic,” Rick Truscott said. “My brother was a good man and did a lot of good things, but he had the demons inside.”
Greg Truscott was one of five county residents who were honored on Saturday, Sept. 25 in the seventh annual recovery. More than 100 people came to the Palace of Justice Square on fall morning to show their support for recovery programs and remember the lives lost through addiction.
In addition to recognizing Greg Truscott, attendees also celebrated the life of Trevor Cupp, who died on February 27 this year; Michael Pavich, who died on November 3, 2020; Matthew Thomas, who died on October 19, 2019; and Jasmine Wethington, who died on February 18, 2017.
“I’ve also had my own problems, but I’m 16 years old sober,” Rick Truscott told the crowd, which made them applaud their sobriety.
He reminded everyone that three things are associated with addiction: prison, institutions, and death. Those who struggle with addiction should avoid the latter.
“We can all use people’s passage to promote recovery,” Rick Truscott said.
Linda Ostewig, director of The Landing Place, which offers programs and support to those struggling with addiction and other issues, organized the event.
He had a hard week and lost his mother on Tuesday, but then worked to establish recovery. Ostewig was delighted to see such a large crowd despite a rain in the morning that she feared it might drive some away.
“I love the fact that people are thrilled to be here because I think it shows that they get the message that recovery is real,” he said.
Officials want those with addiction problems to understand that they can live in recovery and have a full and happy life. Ostewig noted that while he was dealing with the loss of his mother earlier in the week, he was aware that he was not the only one who had problems with the loss.
“These people who drop balloons have also lost people,” Ostewig said.
Greenfield Mayor Chuck Fewell, who is a former police officer who first-hand dealt with the effects of substance abuse, kicked off the opening ceremony. He said the event is important every year not only to mourn the lost, but to celebrate those who are moving towards a drug-free life.
“We’ve lost too many people to this dreaded disease that has no limits,” Fewell said. “This is a disease we need to keep fighting, and we will fight it.”
Fewell thanked those who have championed programs, such as Attorney Brent Eaton and County Drug Court Supervisor Judge Scott Sirk of Hancock County Circuit Court, for their continued support.
“We all know we can’t afford to stop waging this battle,” he said.
Despite all efforts, the number of deaths associated with addiction is growing. Indiana reported a 33% increase in lethal overdoses from 2019 to 2020, according to data released in late July by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The Hancock County coroner reported data showing 11 people died from accidental overdose in 2019. The number rose to 14 in 2020.
The county is about to eclipse that total in 2021.
Ostewig reminded everyone that she and others will continue to fight for those who need help.
“We’ll keep talking,” he said, punching the air.
Ostewig said it was important to remind attendees who spread that people with addiction problems “are not moral failures.” He said fighting the stigma of addiction is half the battle.
He closed his comments on a light note and reminded everyone that after the walk there would be plenty of food on hand and the opportunity to punish some people at the dunk depot.
“The prosecutor will be in a tank,” he said with a laugh, and jokingly reminded people that Eaton had probably loaded a few and throwing balls at the target was a good way to solve the score.
Austin Douglas of Internet Mix 105 aired the event early Saturday morning and sat in the dunk depot before the ride.
Sitting in the seat, wet from glasses, he said it was quite cold with a blowing autumn breeze, but he said he didn’t care too much because it was worth recognizing people who have passed or are struggling with drug addiction. .
“We’re all related to community involvement,” he said.
So were the numerous representatives of recovery programs and other entities who set up stands in the Plaza de la Palacio de Justicia to share information about the resources they provide.
Paul Galbraith, director of Celebrate Recovery from Brandywine Community Church, shared information on how people can help those looking to live a better life with drugs and alcohol.
“What makes me happy at heart is seeing all the recovery help we have in our community,” he said. “From childhood to adulthood, we have people in this county who want to help others.”
After the opening ceremonies and the release of balloons into the morning sky to support the lives of those who have passed by, the vast majority of the crowd took to the promenade, gathering again in the Plaza del Palau de Justice to continue supporting the event.
[ad_2]Source: http://www.greenfieldreporter.com/2021/09/28/recovery-is-real-annual-walk-promotes-a-message-of-hope-for-those-suffering-from-addiction/ [ad_2]
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