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Imagine a nation that understands and treats addiction just like any other chronic disease.  We know just as much about it as we know about any other health issue.  We are just as likely to solicit the advice of our family doctor as we are for any other type of issue about which we might be open to suggestion.  Stigmatized labels like, “alcoholic”, “drug addict” and “substance abuser” are relics of the past.  We have come to know that addiction is an equal opportunity disease, affecting roughly 10% of any adult population, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, education, religion and socio-economics. 

Just as with other chronic diseases, there is no fear of reprisal or harsh judgment, whether by employers, families or friends.  Those who suffer are met with the same level of compassion, hope and love as those afflicted with other diseases.  Families, in particular, come together rather than break apart. 

Given the chronic nature of the disease, we will recognize that recovery is a journey and that brief episodes of acute care aren’t enough to optimize the probability of long-term recovery.  We will celebrate survival.  We will march together with our heads held high.

If we can dream it, we can accomplish it. Join the movement.