Those who know me even a little are well aware that I struggled for years with a crippling Substance Use Disorder. This started when I was 16 but really spiraled out of control after I graduated college and found heroin. I was in and out of treatment for just under the next decade and a half.
I finally got and stayed in recovery with the assistance of the lessons I learned at the amazing treatment centers I was privileged enough to attend — and with the help of one of the most stigmatized substances on earth (methadone). 12-step recovery helped me, but I truly needed an MAT program too, which I resisted due to stigma. Had I truly embraced the power of this recovery tool years ago, I’m certain my journey to wellness would’ve been shorter. And less painful. For me, my friends, and my family.
So when I realized just how many individuals don’t seek treatment due to stigma (and how many can’t afford treatment), I realized I could do two things.
First, I speak out publicly and loudly against stigma. Stigma for those with SUD. Stigma for those who choose MAT (I’m a huge fan of multiple pathways to recovery and support ANYTHING that helps people live a better and happier life!!). Stigma for those who are pregnant and new mothers and are terrified to seek treatment because of fear of social services and DCF/CPS fall out. Stigma for those who have been convicted of a non-violent, drug-related offense who now must not only rebuild a life in recovery but also overcome the judgment, stereotypes, and negative connotations resulting from their criminal record.
And secondly, I want to do anything I can to support organizations who share my same goals — to create a more equitable playing field for those seeking treatment and for those who are still in active addiction to be treated humanely. After all, these are our brothers, sisters, parents, friends, neighbors, children, and relatives. To cast them into the street with no healthcare, help, housing, access to food or water, clean needles or Narcan, or basic decency is unacceptable. This could have been, could be me. This could be you. The line that separates us is thin and addiction is an equal opportunity disease
When I learned of Sarah Laurel and her amazing organization Savage Sisters Recovery and the work they do in Kensington I was blown away.
Savage Sisters nonprofit provides trauma informed housing, nationwide education & outreach to individuals experiencing homelessness and substance use.
Sarah, in recovery herself, has amassed an amazing team and following and loves what she preaches. She loves the population she serves and is in the streets everyday providing supplies and love and support and helping individuals connect with services. And she is working to change policy and ensure that the stigma becomes a memory of yesterday.
After all, SUD is a disease. We know this. So how can we punish those who suffer from it the way we do?
I am running my first 50 mile ultramarathon is attempt to fight the stigma. All proceeds to $10k will go to Savage Sisters. Anything beyond that will go to a new fundraiser for F the Stigma.
