This article was originally published in the Summer 2024 issue of Living Recovery. To view the full issue, click here.
Peer-to-peer recovery offers a powerful source of hope for individuals battling addiction. This approach connects people in recovery with others who have successfully navigated similar struggles, fostering a sense of understanding and mutual support. By sharing their experiences, challenges, and triumphs, peers create a supportive community where individuals feel less isolated and more motivated to pursue recovery.
In April, six Addiction Recovery Care (ARC) employees were honored by Operation UNITE as Hope Ambassadors at the 2024 Rx and Illicit Drug Summit. They included Shannon Hall, Aisian Lucas, Brandon Conlin, Christina Sargent, Sam Dowden and Kevin Lyttle. Through the Hope Ambassadors program, their stories serve as powerful reminders of resilience and possibility, inspiring others to embark on their own paths toward healing. Their recognition not only honors their contributions but also amplifies the message of hope for individuals and families facing addiction.
“Everyday I want to share the struggles that I went through, to show people how God and recovery can change things drastically,” said Aisian Lucas. “I share my desperation from addiction, but then show that God changed my life, recovery made it all possible, and helping others gives me the courage and the passion to press forward.”
“All of my experiences shaped me to help others. Being recognized as a Hope Ambassador is an honor, and confirmation,” said Brandon Conlin. “The real honor though, is when my story, my experience, or just my willingness to listen to someone considering or entering recovery makes an impact in their life. Seeing someone else find their Hope is the best feeling in the world.”
