by:  Cris Corzine-McCloskey

When I was incarcerated, I used to think about how far I would have had to go back in time to change my course so I wouldn’t have ended up in prison. I figured out my problems first started in childhood when I was molested because, by my early teens, I started finding solace in the attention of boys and smoking pot. By age 16, I was sexually active with a severe drinking problem. I was also using hallucinogenics and cocaine. By 17, I was a train-wreck, and I rode that rail until I landed in prison.

Fortunately, my story had a happy ending. I got radically saved, healed of my addictions, and am now on the front-line, fighting against the things that tried to destroy me. Yet I often wonder what my life would have been like had my mom and stepdad known when I first started drinking and drugging. I think that’s why I’m so passionate about early interventions and helping family members affected by addiction.

When someone’s child is using drugs, it’s easy to become judgmental and blame the parents, but it’s not that simple. Most parents either don’t know their child is in trouble or if they do, they don’t know how to help them. Plus, addiction turns people into bullies, liars, and sneaks, so families are left confused and frightened. It doesn’t get any easier to deal with when it’s the addict is an adult. I believe the only thing that may be worse than being an addict is loving one.

That’s why Caring Counseling Ministries has teamed up with RecoverUS Centers to offer the community an opportunity to get some hope, help, and encouragement. On September 28th, we have invited nationally known speaker and recovery advocate, Nick Morgan, to speak to the parents who want to be educated about current drug trends and family members of those struggling with addictions.

Joining him will be Michelle Bertinetti who will have her Hidden in Plain Sight display set up. In her exhibition, she sets up a mock teen bedroom and shows parents how they can spot hiding places where kids are putting drugs and drug paraphernalia. If you think you can spot the signs, you are in for a big surprise.

Our goal is to have a frank talk about how to spot the warning signs that someone is using and what to do about it if you know they are. We will talk about how to stop enabling when it’s time for tough love, and what treatment options are available. This is a free event, and it will be held at the Caring Counseling Ministries Annex Building at 11264 Route 37, Marion, IL on September 28th at 10:30 am.

While this event is mainly designed to help families looking for help and answers, we will also be available to talk to anyone who is struggling with addiction and ready to get some help.

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