The Shatterproof Walk to End Addiction has been bringing communities together since 2017, giving families space to remember loved ones lost to substance use disorder and to cheer on those living in recovery. Organized by Shatterproof, a national nonprofit, the walks raise awareness and money for prevention, advocacy and treatment access for the more than 48 million Americans living with substance use disorder.
Rob, who represented Narcotics Anonymous at this year’s walk, came with a simple but powerful mission: to help change the stigma around addiction. He doesn’t waste words, and he doesn’t need to. His answers cut straight to the heart of recovery. There is hope, there is strength in community, and every person fighting addiction is worth the fight. For Rob, recovery isn’t reserved for a lucky few. It’s available to anyone ready to reach for it.
Could you state your name for me, please?
Rob.
Who do you represent today?
Narcotics Anonymous.
What brought you to Shatterproof Walk today and what does being here mean to you?
What brought me here is to give to the cause of changing the stigma of addiction.
What do you wish more people understood about addiction?
That there is hope through recovery.
What has this journey taught you about strength, healing and recovery?
That I am worth it.
What does it mean to see so many people come together around this cause?
Strength in numbers. It means there is hope for anyone.
What would you say to someone who is struggling with addiction or supporting someone who is?
That recovery is available to anyone.
One word that represents hope to you.
Recovery.
What gives you strength on a difficult day?
Strength in numbers.
Finish this sentence: Today I’m walking…
For recovery.
Anyone looking for support can find Narcotics Anonymous meetings at na.org/meetingsearch.