Rally for Recovery in Newport Friday

Despite nearly every family being touched by addiction in some way, whether it’s a loved one or friend who has or is battling substance abuse, or is in recovery, a stigma lingers.

Addicts shuffle in and out of the legal system with few clear paths to getting clean. And a scan of comment threads on the Internet reveals there is little sympathy for those whose troubles clearly stem from substance abuse. Doctors and people who work in the recovery movement know the facts: even people who want to get clean need support and resources to make it happen.

On Friday, Newport will be host to the Newport Rally for Recovery and it’s just one small step towards changing attitudes towards addiction. And it will take a positive approach to highlight that recovery is possible, despite the headwinds.

According to a release, the event brings together individuals in recovery from addiction and mental illness, their families, friends and advocates to celebrate recovery. This year, Rhode Island has suffered greatly with overdoses and deaths. It is time to celebrate those individuals who have worked hard to overcome their addiction and have gone on to lead healthy productive lives.

Visitors will enjoy free admission, free food, live music and various vendor booths. Starting at noon at Newport Hospital, there will be a free training session for Faith Based Recovery providers. At 2 p.m. the first annual recovery motorcycle rally will start at Newport Hospital and tour Aquidneck Island finishing at Historic Emmanuel Church at 42 Dearborn Street, Newport.

Among those in attendance will be: Craig Stenning, Director of Behavioral Health, Developmental Disabilities and Hospitals; RI Department of Corrections Director A.T. Wall; Health Department Director Michael Fine; and Newport Mayor Harry Winthrop.