Video: Road to recovery; annual walk celebrates those overcoming addiction

TUPELO, Miss. (WCBI)- Substance addiction continues to be a major problem in Northeast Mississippi. On Saturday hundreds gathered in Tupelo to celebrate those recovering from addiction.

They carried signs signifying victory over substance addiction, and then at the entrance of Fair Park they marched in the third annual North Mississippi Recovery Walk. Keith Henry of Addiction Recovery Resources was the organizer of the event. He says it’s a walk to raise awareness in our community about the reality of recovery.

“We want to show that as a community that Tupelo and North Mississippi support recovery,” said Henry.

“Alcohol and drug abuse is something that effects every single family, every city, every community and we all have to do our part to raise awareness and give assistance and get help for recovery to those who need it,” said Mayor Jason Shelton.

The Opioid crisis has been a major topic of discussion around the country. Even President Trump has weighed in on the problem and unfortunately northeast Mississippi is not immune.

“Of course we seeing more and more cases of substance abuse disorders related to opiates. We are seeing more deaths related to opiates,” said Henry.

“Here in Tupelo we’ve tried to be proactive, work with our partners in recovery but also particularly our Fire Department EMT’s and first responders carrying the medications that are needed to save lives. So we’re trying to be proactive as a community,” said Mayor Shelton.

There was plenty of good food at Saturday’s recovery rally. Megan Dye helped serve refreshments. She has has her own recovery story.

“I had a problem years ago. Right now I’m on drug court and I’ve completely changed my life around. I’m a completely different person. It’s stuff like this that kind of kept me going and kept me supported,” said Dye.

Substance recovery is a family affair. Angie Garrett has been clean for ten years after a long bout with substance addiction. She says there is a genetic element.

“So my kids were just born with the possibility of being an addict and so my son struggled too. But the good news is we also pass down our recovery,” said Garrett.

While there are many ways to crack an addiction, some choose the spiritual route. Colby Cuevas is the recovery pastor of Thrive Church, which is part of the Orchard family of churches in Tupelo. He is also a recovered substance abuser.

“A downward spiral, very similar to everyone else. I found myself in a drug treatment center. Through the treatment center and through two preachers coming to the rehab I was at, shared the gospel, and that gospel opened my eyes and allowed me to see for the first time,” said Cuevas.

Cuevas says anyone is welcome to seek help at his ministry.