GROUP OFFERING FAMILIES LIGHT IN DARK TIMES

We've all heard it. What happens at home, stays at home. Don't air
your dirty linen. Our family business is no one else's business.

So it's not surprising that when families are faced with crisis they
often batten down the hatches, close the doors, and pretend life is a
bowl of cherries.

That doesn't have to happen when it comes to Freedom Quest's Family
Support Group, a weekly meeting of parents who have children with
substance abuse issues.

Connie is a families worker with Freedom Quest.

She understands that it is often painful and embarrassing for parents
to come forward and say, "My child has an issue with alcohol or drugs."

"I think that is the biggest thing. People are afraid to let others
know that things are going on," explained Connie.

But that's exactly how healing and resolution begins - with open
conversation with those who have been through the same thing.

"They are not alone. There are many parents going through similar
circumstances."

Sometimes, just knowing one is not alone is enough to stave off
feelings of isolation and reach out for help.

That help, said Connie, can come in many forms.

Sometimes it's simply knowing that you aren't alone, listening to
other's tell their tales and hearing what remedies worked for them and
what didn't.

Other times, she said, it might be a matter of having information
available such as what resources are out there to help recovery along
its way.

Whatever the case, Connie said Freedom Quest's Family Support Group is
a good place to start.

"Information is the biggest resource. We have lots of resources and
information at our fingertips."

If you think Freedom Quest can help you and your family, call them at
304-2676 for more information. All information is extremely
confidential.

The program is ongoing and families can join at any time.