Community effort helps (09/19/2008)

To the editor:

It is against September and National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month.

Each year the Jay County Drug Prevention Coalition works with public leaders, organizations and the media in an effort to raise community awareness about issues surrounding addiction.

Research indicates that nearly 22.6 million Americans meet the criteria for substance abuse disorders. However, in the last year, only 4 million received treatment.

While there has been a decline in drug abuse over the last several years, there continue to be individuals suffering with addiction issues.

As a community, we must realize that addiction is a disease and as such, must be treated to successfully conquer it.

I frequently hear individuals talk about drug use and criticize the addict. There continues to be lack of awareness about this disease and many people share the misconception that if the addicted wanted it badly enough, they would just quit.

Unfortunately, it is often not that simple. We as a community must continue to address how these issues are impacting us, learn the truth about addiction, and support those who are working to triumph over the hold that drugs have on their lives.

As part of Recovery Month, it is the goal of the Jay County Drug Prevention Coalition to share information about treatment options available locally.

Individuals who have a problem with alcohol or drug addiction can receive treatment at Meridian Services or can participate in the local Alcoholics Anonymous meeting.

In addition, there is support available locally, through Alanon and Alateen, for individuals who have a loved one dealing with addiction. These meetings are listed weekly in the Community Calendar. As a society, we must all work together to triumph over the grip that drugs and alcohol have over many of our citizens and their loved ones.

Jennifer VanSkyock

Jay County Drug

Prevention Coalition

Amen

To the editor:

This is in reference to a letter of Sept. 8 regarding Jay County as a great place to live. Having been here since 1954, 54 years now, I say amen.

A community that has a $20 million foundation, a place like Arts Place, the Community Center, the Jay County Fair, the tractor show, our library, our hospital, the hound dog show, an airport like ours, festivals like Pennville, Bryant, Glass Days, our 4-H, Freedom Park, Haynes Park and many other places, deserves a thank you and a pat on the back.

So be it!

Sincerely,

Eugene M. Gillum, M.D.

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