PHOTOS: Powerful stories told at Recovery Walk

SANDUSKY — About 450 people attended the 13th-annual Recovery Walk on Saturday in downtown Sandusky. This year's theme, Our Stories Have Power, recognized the courage of people who share their experiences of recovery, hope, healing and perseverance. "Our stories have the power to give someone hope, reduce stigma and remind people that recovery is possible," according to an event statement. "Every person's journey is different, but each story can help build a stronger and more understanding community." The family-friendly event brought together individuals in recovery, families, friends, community partners, service providers and supporters from Erie County and surrounding communities. Sandusky Artisans Recovery Community Center hosts the annual event. Since its founding in 1996, Artisans — at the forefront of providing outlets for community members coping with addiction and mental health issues — sponsors meetings and offers guidance along with other resources to provide support for those suffering. Most, if not all, of Artisans' services are free. Some services offered include sponsors, meetings, guidance and other resources in supporting those suffering from withdrawal. Each year, the Recovery Walk represents one of the area's largest public outreach initiatives to raise awareness for a nationwide drug epidemic hitting home. It also aims to provide local treatment solutions. But why a walk, which started at Artisans' office on East Market Street and concluded at Jackson Street Pier? "The walk is intended to demonstrate that recovery is alive and well in Erie County and that people seeking recovery do not have to face the journey alone," said Mary Supina, who co-founded Artisans with her husband, Joey Supina. People can learn more about Artisans' services by calling 419-621-9377 or visiting sanduskyartisansrecovery.org. "Recovery is possible. Our community has resources. And our stories have power," Mary said.