A Community Converges to Honor Lives Affected by Addiction
Hundreds of individuals gathered in Phoenix on November 15 for the J & M Walk to Fight AZ, a heartfelt initiative aimed at raising awareness about the tragedy of addiction and the impact of drug overdoses on families. The event serves as an emotional tribute to those lost, creating a somber yet strengthening experience for attendees who share a common bond through their grief.
Personal Stories Fuel a Movement for Change
Among the leading voices of this movement is Peggy Hernandez, a case manager at Crossroads Inc., a local treatment center. Hernandez, a 20-year sober veteran, draws from her profound experiences of loss, having tragically lost two sons and a son-in-law to substance abuse. "I have to be strong because... my grandkids count on me," she shares, illustrating the incredible resilience that emerges from such heartache.
Building a Supportive Community
What began as a familial desire to honor lost loved ones has blossomed into a larger movement to provide support for families grappling with the effects of addiction. Hernandez and her daughter-in-law, Valerie Jimenez, expressed their mission: to create not just a memorial, but a haven for those who feel isolated in their sorrow. "It's just more of supporting families and what they're going through," Jimenez explains. This sense of unity transforms individual grief into collective strength, reinforcing the message that no one has to navigate addiction alone.
Engagement Activities Highlighting Awareness
This year's walk features a range of activities, including a car show, free food, and essential resources for addiction support. Attendees will also see a memorial garden adorned with the names of approximately 490 individuals lost to addiction—creating a poignant visual reminder of the lives affected by this crisis.
Looking Towards the Future
As community members joined together at Playa Margarita Park, they carried with them stories of struggle and hope, marking a significant step in reducing the stigma surrounding addiction. The ongoing discourse aims to foster a compassionate atmosphere for those still battling addiction and for families left grieving. This powerful event not only honors the memories of those lost but also stands as a beacon of hope for recovery and community healing.
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