Submitted by Carol LeBeau, 10News Anchor.

These days, the news is full of stories about Holllywood celebrities in and out of rehab for all kinds of addictions. Some of these celebs treat their time in rehab like a badge of honor… a sort of rite of passage before achieving true “star” status. 

That’s too bad.  Because it’s sending a message to their young fans that flirting with possibly addictive behavior is okay. It’s not. Just ask the more than 14 million Americans in the real world fighting dependence or abuse of either alcohol or illicit drugs.  It’s no rehab party. For some, it’s a painful, day-to-day struggle to survive. Roughly half of those with serious mental disorders are also affected by substance abuse. And sadly, alcohol-related accidents are the leading cause of death among young people between the ages of 12 and 14.

The fact is, no one is untouched by the effects of alcohol, drug abuse or mental illness.  Many of us have felt, first-hand, the devastating impact of these problems in our own families, within our circle of friends, our neighborhoods,our workplaces and communities. I lost my mother to suicide many years ago and have several loved ones who have been down the road to recovery.

That’s why I thought I’d alert you to a special event coming up Saturday, April 5.  You can join with thousands of San Diegans as they “challenge addiction” at the 6th Annual Walk For Recovery. It’s a great way to celebrate life and sobriety on a pleasant 3-mile walk through the lush grounds of the historic and beautiful Balboa Park. There will be live entertainment along the route, bands, bagpipers, steel drums, even a Chinese dragon dance… plenty to keep you motivated!

Your $25 registration fee will help support more than a dozen local, non-profit agencies working to fight and treat substance abuse issues. Without the support of family, friends, the community and the many agencies working to help them, many addicts would be lost in the downward spiral of their addiction.

So plan to start your day bright and early on the west side of Balboa Park near Quince Street and Balboa Drive. You can register starting at 7 am. Honorary Chair and Starter, Greg Cox will kick of the “Walk For Recovery” at 8. Then make a morning of it at the post-walk expo and entertainment venue. 

For more information, call Greg Block at 619-236-8397 or go to http://www.benedettopr.com/.  Have a great walk and thanks for your support!

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