'This is recovery right here'

Sep. 14—Second annual Walk for Recovery held Saturday

Throughout Mill Pond-Horace Park Saturday morning were signs — signs with sobering statistics about drug addiction.

However, there were also signs of hope.

One sign read showed that more than 770 individuals were supported by Recovery is Happening and another read, "We are living proof that people with substance use disorders can and do recover."

That was the overall theme of the second annual Walk for Recovery in Austin, an event that celebrates and supports drug and alcohol addiction recovery.

There were activities, food and fellowship and there were booths with community resources and a remembrance table marking those who are no longer here today.

The walk itself, which wrapped around Mill Pond, focused the event on why they were all gathered.

"We all want our voices to be heard and offer hope to individuals that still might be struggling, but also to celebrate those of us who are living in recovery and show people that it's possible," said Recovery is Happening Executive Director Jenna Klassen.

Steve Schmidt was one of those that took part of the day. A methamphetamine and alcohol addict for over 20 years, Schmidt told his own story of recovery to those participating.

It's a story with lows, but also plenty of highs — highs marked by a thinking of here and now..

"I Just work every day for today," Schmidt said. "I try to focus on what I can do better today."

Schmidt told the crowd that as of Saturday, he was eight years, four months and five days clean. A stark indication of the work he and others put in toward remaining clean.

"Every time I think about using, I think about that last day using and I don't ever want to go back," he said. "I didn't see a tomorrow.

Today, Schmidt said he remains clean by surrounding himself with those who are supportive and being active in the recovery community.

He advocated for his own one day at a time approach to recovery.

"I am grateful for today. Tomorrow is never promised," he said. "Be happy. Be grateful."

But Klassen said that the day and the event wasn't just about those in recovery. It also shows others in the community, who maybe haven't had contact with addiction, the kind of support that is needed.

She hopes that through efforts like Saturday's walk, others will step up to offer even more support to those in recovery.

"Realize that people are struggling and need a little bit of hope and a little bit of kindness," she said. "I think there are still stigmas out there so let's reduce that and get out here and have a conversation and hear their story."

Klassen and others taking part in the walk were inspired by the participation and the willingness to support.

"We have such an amazing staff that work so hard at just getting out there and giving people voices," Klassen said. "Just being here and seeing all of these people together and encouraging one another — It's amazing. This is recovery right here."

As people continued to enjoy each other's company and be a part of their successes, Brandon Moseng, a peer recovery specialist at the Recovery is Happening, reminded people that hope and help is there if needed.

"Always know there is somebody there," he said. "If you are struggling, always reach out."