A few years ago, while visiting New York City, a stranger gave my friends and me free tickets to the Museum of Modern Art. All he said was: “Pay it forward.” These three simple words resonate within me daily. And, although I try to pay to it forward on a small scale, this year I’ve decided to take the next step in my effort to help others.
I’ve been working at St. Joseph’s for three years now. My main job is to provide updates about clients' progress to insurances, and to advocate for coverage of services. Working in the addiction treatment and recovery field I know first-hand how denial of services can pause someone’s efforts with sobriety, and that addiction is a family disease that affects large groups of people, not only the person suffering.
Outside of work I have always been an outdoor enthusiast. Three years ago, I started running up Mt.Baker in Saranac Lake. With a few exceptions, I have not stopped running there, and elsewhere, since then. Running has become my passion, a way to clear my head, a way to deal with myself, others, and the world. Running gives me the chance to explore trails and roads in the Tri Lakes and to meet people who enjoy running as much as I do.
This year, I decided to connect my passion for running and the outdoors with my desire to help others while honoring the request of the stranger from years ago to pay it forward. In 2019, my family and I will run/walk 2019 miles in an effort to raise $2,019. All proceeds will directly benefit individuals seeking addiction treatment and recovery services at St. Joseph’s who cannot afford them due to income or insurance limitations or restrictions.
In addition, we hope to put on at least two events including a Mental Health Awareness Hike up Mt.Baker during Memorial Day weekend, and a Color Run for Recovery in July. I’ll share more information regarding these events once the plans are solidified.
Please join us this year and help us reach our goal. There are many different ways in which you can help. You can become a sponsor, sign up as a vendor for our event, donate items/certificates for silent auction, offer helping hand with our events, or show your support by joining us for a run or walk.
All proceeds from Miles for Recovery 2019 will directly benefit clients of St.Joseph's ATRC.
