RALEIGH COUNTY, WV (WOAY) – A crowd holding candles in solidarity was the scene at Word Park in Beckley.
One Flame Can Light the Way supports those who lost a loved one to addiction or mental illness — and offers hope to those still struggling. The event returned after more than a decade.
“My saving grace was a mom and dad that continued to pray for me,” said Amazing Grace Worship Center’s Matt Bailey. “For 22 years they never gave up on me, and God never gave up on me, even when I’d given up on myself.”
According to Bright Life Mental Health & Recovery’s Beckie Smith, in the early 2010s people were shamed and embarrassed about their addiction. So they hid it from their families — which caused more problems.
“The stigma back then was a lot different than it is now, said Smith, who in the past partnered with One Voice and founded Mothers Against Prescription Drug Abuse. “The awareness we have out there; just showing people
the communities have changed, people have come together. It’s been a long time coming and I’m glad it’s back.”
For Smith, this event is personal. Her son is in active addiction, and she says it’s been 18 years that he’s been on the streets.
“He’s still out there. I don’t know where he’s at, she said. “If I can help one person and let them know there is help, there are resources available here and we still love them no matter what. I just pray that one day he can find recovery too.”
Having this community’s support and letting others know they are not alone is everything.
“People come together and support one another and say, ‘hey, let’s help this person,’ not hide them and just cast them aside,” said Smith. “I think that’s been the biggest difference in the last 12 years.”
Bright Life Mental Health & Recovery’s Heather Williams says there is always a person right beside you willing to reach out and help.
“Save a life, man; it’s so important,” said Williams. “It doesn’t matter if it’s a stranger on the street, if it’s your neighbor or if it’s a loved one — save that life; every single life is precious.”
TO LEARN MORE
https://brightlifemhs.com
