The walk, in observance of National Recovery Month, started at Prospect Reef and ended at Sandy Lane Centre. Photo: Reuben Stoby/VINO

Approximately 40 persons supported the Sandy Lane Centre's walk in observance of National Recovery Month 2012. Photo: Reuben Stoby/VINO

Members of the 1st Tortola Guides "Brownies" during the walk this morning. Photo: Reuben Stoby/VINO

The walk this morning September 29, 2012, kicked off around 6:30 A.M. at Prospect Reef and ended at the Sandy Lane Centre.

Participants included a large number from the 1^st and 4^th Tortola Guides, Cadet Corps, BVI Red Cross Society, BVI Ports Authority, Community Mental Health Centre and Social Development Department.

The Centre said September is designated National Recovery Month but this is the first time that Sandy Lane Centre has participated in activities in its observance. The aim, it said, is to join all voices together to promote substance abuse and mental health awareness, “letting the folks know that it is real and there are people out there suffering from substance abuse and mental illness. But at the same time it is possible for us as a community to overcome. And so we just want everybody to lend their voices and support those persons who are in recovery and those who are still struggling.”

The participants were also addressed by Mr. Avery Williams aka Macho Man, who was rehabilitated from drug addiction. Mr. Williams shared his touching story and advised persons to never use illegal drugs. 'It is a beast," he said.

The Sandy Lane Centre was established under the Ministry of Health and Social Development in 1995 to provide treatment and related services to persons who suffer from addictions to alcohol and other substances; to lend support to the families of persons who suffer from addiction; and to provide education and increased awareness on addiction and treatment.