Walk of Hope and Remembrance

ALL TOGETHER NOW –

Sept. 27, 2024 – “I am a person in long-term recovery. It is important for me to speak openly about that because it helps to reduce the stigma. I am very passionate about educating young people,” she said. “I started using drugs and alcohol when I was a sophomore in high school and I developed a pretty severe Substance Abuse Disorder (SAD) in my 20s.” “I am trying do my small part to bring awareness to the dangers of it and the importance of finding other choices. We can discover more ways to find fun and a sense of belonging through moving our bodies, through being involved in our communities and through finding things we love to do that are substance free,” she said.

The Recovery Remembrance Walk, hosted by Lake Region Recovery Center (LRRC) and Crooked River Counseling, is held in honor of Dr. Peter Leighton, who worked in the recovery field and died from brain cancer.

After people participated in the walk, everybody reconvened in the field behind the counseling center.

Hamlin was one of about a half-dozen speakers invited to the event. “I am celebrating 993 days substance free,” Hamlin said told the large crowd.

Her statement was met with applause and whistles.