San Angelo: Join ADACCV for 12th Annual Let It Go Recovery Rally and Run

SAN ANGELO, TX - Over the last few years, an everyday occurrence right here in San Angelo includes headlines that tell of tragic events and/or arrests due to alcohol and/or drug abuse/possession. Oftentimes, the events end in serious injury, incarceration, or even death. Years ago, the stereotype was that people who “used” were a lower-class citizen, and it was a “choice” the weak-minded made to escape responsibility. Nowadays, however, addiction is diagnosed as a disease and knows no specific socioeconomic status, age, or denomination.

Fortunately, for those afflicted, they have an opportunity to turn their lives around and get help.

The Alcohol & Drug Abuse Council for the Concho Valley (ADACCV), located at 3553 W. Houston Harte Expressway, is a non-profit agency in San Angelo that has been promoting wellness and recovery for over 50 years. It has assisted countless individuals to live their lives free from the grip and dangers of alcohol and drugs.

On Saturday, September 24, the organization will host its 12th Annual "Let It Go Recovery Rally and Run" at the Paseo de Santa Angela, 20 E. Avenue D. It is one of many events throughout the nation to recognize National Recovery Month, Texas Recovery Month, and celebrate recovery from alcoholism and addiction. 

The Fight Against Addiction

Event coordinator Paulette Schell said, "Addiction is an issue that impacts all of us. It's important in our community that we have the power to do something about it. Events such as this one raise awareness, giving hope to individuals and families affected by the disease."

Schell said the organization served over 400 individuals from the Concho Valley and the state of Texas in its in-patient treatment program; and there are hundreds more in outpatient services. These patients’ recovery and success have a positive ripple effect in the San Angelo community. By and large, addiction impacts crime, affects stability of the City’s workforce, stability of families, and is a public health issue, said Schell.

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She continued, "We have children who go to school whose lives at home are just chaotic because of drugs. This impacts their ability to learn, which impacts our teachers and our future. These are kids who are growing up in 'the life,' and it doesn't have to be that way. Research actually says there is a much greater propensity for a genetic predisposition when the parents are using, as it is the life they learn. A lot of times parents will have the misguided thought they will teach their kids how to drink responsibly; but what they don't understand is that the adolescent brain isn't prepared for receiving those drugs or alcohol. Their brains are still forming. We're not teaching good habits, just possibly flipping a switch and doing harm."

Schell also said, for some people, they may take their first drink and say, “I'm not going to do that again,” whereas for the person who is genetically predisposed, again, it's like flipping a switch. 

“The earlier a young person uses or drinks, the more likely [he or she will] become an addict," said Schell. "The good news is we know what works."

 Schell said ADACCV has prevention programs in San Angelo schools, which are evidence based, and work. 

“We know that treatment is effective and that sobriety and living a life free of drugs and alcohol is possible—not easy but possible,” Schell stated. “We're really very fortunate that we have these programs locally to help those seeking a different life. Our agency works well with, and is connected to, other agencies that can help the person who seeks a change by networking."

Proceeds for this event will benefit the agency's new treatment center.

Schell explained, "Right now, we are in the middle of our capital campaign and are going to break ground at the end of the year."  

She stressed that the Journey Recovery Center will help a person who has hit rock bottom and is ready to change, but who is afraid of the detox process.

“It's (addiction) a very tricky disease, and we understand that those who have come in for help are only a fraction of those affected by the disease,” Schell said. “Unfortunately, sometimes they have to get to the point where life is unmanageable."

A Rally Against Addiction

The Let It GO! Recovery Rally & Run will kick off with a 1M/5K walk/run race and will be held Saturday, September 24, at 8:30 a.m. - 12 p.m. The first 100 race registrants will receive a free t-shirt, and race medals will be awarded immediately after the race.

Following the race, keynote speaker Sandy Barnes will share her story of addiction and recovery. After the speaker, ADACCV will release hundreds of colorful balloons that represent persons “letting go” of their addiction to drugs and alcohol. Sponsorships are greatly appreciated and will be taken up until Friday, September 16.

ADACCV is inviting San Angelo and the Concho Valley to join the fight against addiction and alcoholism and to celebrate recovery. Tickets and more information can be found at www.adaccv.org. Also, be sure to check out the organization’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/adaccv.