Contributing Writer – Diane Anderson
It’s hard to express what a privilege it is to be an advocate for people in recovery. One of my cherished gifts in recovery has been finding my voice, and using it to fight for others in recovery. It has become my purpose.
Last February was my first time traveling to Albany, to our state capital, for Advocacy Day/Stand Up for Recovery Day. It was an experience I will never forget. First, it was snowing heavily—white-out conditions—but that was not going to deter me! The bus arrived, and I was determined to be on it alongside my fellow peers.
I wasn’t prepared for the overwhelming energy I felt in an auditorium filled with people like me, advocating and uniting for recovery rights. After hearing many inspiring speakers, we lined up behind a local high school drum band, which led the way to the steps of the Capitol. That march—the sounds of the drums, standing shoulder to shoulder with my fellow advocates—was so emotional, so empowering, and so important.
Once inside, we broke into groups to meet with our appointed senators. In the chambers of Senator Palumbo, I spoke with his assistant, Chris Stazio. I shared my story: my struggles, the shame I used to carry because of the stigma society places on addiction. I told him how I was forced to leave inpatient treatment on my fifth day because insurance wouldn’t cover any more. I shared how I self-paid for my treatment—$16,100—because I was desperate to heal and give my children their mother back.
The room fell silent. He had tears in his eyes. In that moment, I wasn’t just a statistic. I was a woman, a mother, a person, looking into his eyes and making a human connection. There is so much power in that. I knew then that this woman I’ve fought so hard to become would continue to use her voice for the people who come after me.
My entire career exists because of the advocates who came before me, those who fought for the rights of people in recovery to be treated with the same priority and dignity as anyone else living with a disease. My gratitude for them is enormous. They paved this path, and I will proudly continue walking it—with determination and perseverance—for those still struggling.
I can’t wait for February 4, 2025—Stand Up for Recovery Day! No matter what, I’ll be on that bus.
Leave a Reply