Recovery Month Testimonials

By Kristin Blank

Two consumers spoke about their personal experiences with addiction to highlight this year’s Recovery Month theme, “Real People, Real Recovery.”

Candy Finnigan works as a drug and alcohol interventionist. A former alcoholic with more than 20 years of sobriety, she spoke about the importance of involving the entire family in recovery. “I've found that one addict affects 50 people,” she said. “Because this is a family disease, I start at the top.”

Echoing her sentiments was Nathaniel Anderson, a 24-year-old who started using alcohol and other drugs at age 13. Eventually, he became addicted to OxyContin, until he entered treatment. He has been in recovery since 2004.

For Mr. Anderson, it was the support he received from his family that allowed him to get well. He wanted to set a good example for his younger siblings and make his parents proud. “I show up for my family today,” he said. “I am a respected member of my community, my school, and my family.”

Recovery Month recognizes the accomplishments of people in recovery, the contributions of treatment providers, and advances in substance abuse treatment. This year’s theme, “Real People, Real Recovery,” highlights the people who have a renewed outlook on life thanks to treatment and long-term recovery.

Visit the Recovery Month Web site.