Commissioners recognize September as National Recovery Month

MEDINA — The Medina County commissioners proclaimed September as National Recovery Month with the aim of celebrating those who are living in recovery and raising awareness of substance use disorder during their meeting Tuesday. Commissioner Colleen Swedyk said the proclamation is part of a national observance intended to educate the public on how substance use treatment and mental health services can help people live healthy, rewarding lives. "The observance reinforces the positive message that behavioral health is essential to overall health," she said. "Prevention works. Treatment is effective, and people can and do recover." Medina County Mental Health and Recovery Board Executive Director Philip Titterington said he is proud of how far the county has come, with recovery housing expanding, medication-assisted treatment being readily available, and two Medina County Health Department harm-reduction vending machines serving the county. "Recovery Month celebrates the gains made by those in recovery just as we celebrate health improvements made by those who are managing other health conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, asthma and heart disease," Swedyk said. Titterington said when he sees the strength and resilience of those in recovery and the compassion of those who support them, he remembers why this work is so important. "We are saving lives, and although more work lies ahead, I remain hopeful about what we can continue to accomplish together," he said. "We are committed to continuing to support and help those who walk in recovery." Lodi Village Councilman John Demell said he has been in long-term recovery for around 13 years. "Recovery changes what's possible. It changes people's lives," he said. "It's more than just stopping substance use. It's about rebuilding lives, relationships, families, communities, purpose and connections." There are thousands of people in recovery in Medina County alone, Demell said. "For anybody that's still sick and suffering out there, there's a huge recovery community here in Medina County that is ready and willing to help, so don't be afraid to (seek) help," he said. "We obviously strive to reduce the stigma behind addiction." Contact reporter Madisyn Woodring at (330) 721-4049 or mwoodring@medina-gazette.com.