September 14, 2017 - Several hundred individuals came out to celebrate Recovery Day at the 4th Annual Rockin' Recovery event held at Marina Park Festival area yesterday evening. The event, which featured five local recovery speakers and live entertainment, was planned in partnership with the Thunder Bay Drug Strategy, the Drug Awareness Committee, and community members.

"All of our events give an opportunity for individuals in recovery, their families, friends and allies, to come forward and share publicly about the gifts recovery has brought to their lives," said Cynthia Olsen, Thunder Bay Drug Strategy Coordinator.

Recovery Day was first celebrated in the cities of Vancouver and Victoria on Sept. 30, 2012, as a public display of the freedom from addiction. Since then, the movement has spread throughout Canada, encompassing communities large and small, from East to West. Thunder Bay is among over 30 other communities in Canada who celebrate Recovery Day this month.

Acting Mayor, Councillor Joe Virdiramo, attended the event and proclaimed September as Recovery Month in Thunder Bay. Nearly thirty local organizations participated with information booths about the services, supports and activities that are available locally. Local artisans were also onsite promoting their wares.  

"We come together in the month of September to build awareness, challenge societal stigma and celebrate the role that recovery plays in improving the lives of millions of Canadians, including those right here in our own community," said Olsen.

There are close to five million people in recovery in Canada. Including those individuals friends, families, and allies, about 80 - 90 per cent of the population is affected. Most people have encountered some form of public stigma associated with addiction during their lives, and opinions on recovery may keep people from seeking help. Recovery Day events engage the community, provide education, raise awareness and help reduce the stigma surrounding addiction. 

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Contact:    Cynthia Olsen, Thunder Bay Drug Strategy Coordinator, 625-2942