'Stronger together' in recovery

SANDUSKY — An uplifting gathering rallying support for recovery returns on Saturday for its 10th installment. The Sandusky Artisans Recovery Community Center's annual Recovery Walk takes place Saturday in downtown Sandusky. Here's a timeline of events: • 8 a.m. — Participants can begin to meet in front of the center, 138 E. Market St. • 9 a.m. — The walk begins. People will head to Jackson Street Pier, which is less than a mile away. At the pier, there will be community resources, giveaways and more. • 9:30 a.m. — Guest speakers will address the crowd. People are encouraged to bring a blanket or chair for sitting purposes. Individuals in recovery or those supporting people who strive to live a drug/alcohol-free life along with area stakeholders can register by visiting sanduskyartisansrecovery.com, calling 419-621-9377 or stopping by the center. 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. "This is a great way for our community to be able to see people in recovery and people that support recovery and get the community's support," said Mary Supina, the co-founder of Sandusky Artisans. Her comments circle back to this year's theme, of "stronger together." With community, "This is possible," said Mary, who founded Artisans with her husband, Joey, in 1996. Both are in long-term recovery. The nonprofit 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. Those affiliated with the Artisans also educate the public about what recovery means. Mary stressed how the Recovery Walk represents a good opportunity for people to learn. "The Recovery Walk is important because getting and staying clean and sober and managing one's mental health challenge can be daunting and overwhelming not only to the person but to their families as well," she said. "We all come together to celebrate those who have transformed their lives and can be a beacon for others who are searching or struggling with their recovery," she added. "It is a way to connect to be visible and celebrate the transformation that has taken place in lives because of recovery." The Recovery Walk also offers hope to people, showing them, "There are many pathways and resources for those in recovery from substance use disorder and mental health in our community," Mary said. "Sandusky Artisans Recovery Community Center believes it is important for community members to be aware of all the wonderful resources available in our community as well as see that there are positive, powerful examples of recovery in our community and they should be celebrated," Mary said.