For those of you familiar with CJ and our family, you know how hard CJ tried to kick his addiction. He was not a quitter, he fought his battle with drugs to the end. Sadly, he lost his battle on March 18th, 2012. He was an amazing young man who helped countless people during his short 26 years. His heart was as big as his "go big or go home" attitude. CJ started something in his recovery program t
hat unfortunately he was not able to complete. He thought it would be very helpful to have recovering addicts speak to families lost in the world of addiction. We were a family like that 5 years ago. CJ was very aware of the devastation addiction caused our family and he wanted to make a difference. We have been involved in family groups for years, and it is very helpful to know there is help and assistance out there for families, friends, and loved ones of individuals struggling with drugs or alcohol. In trying to make something good come out of this tragedy, along with keeping CJ’s giving spirit alive, we have formed the CJ Lomas Recovery Foundation. We have also formed a Family and Friends Support Group where family members and significant others can interact and share with others who may be experiencing some of the same concerns or be in similar situations. This is done in a non-judgmental, non-shaming, non-labeling, and supportive atmosphere. We can learn from each other’s mistakes, as well as from our successes, and turn our weaknesses into strengths. Family members, friends, and healthy relationships can be some of the most important elements in someone’s recovery. Individuals struggling with drug/alcohol addiction need these positive influences. However, these positive influences such as family members and other concerned persons often do not know where to turn when they themselves need support when dealing with the recovering loved ones. There may be frustrations and questions that need answered: how to cope with stress, how not to enable, how to forgive, how to love, dealing with anger, acceptance, healing, change, grief and loss, how to share feelings, as well as a multitude of other problems and concerns that need to be addressed. These issues may be related to addictive behaviors, expressing and sharing feelings, trust issues, setting boundaries, among others. Our goal in forming this group is to educate parents, family members, and significant others as to where to draw the line between enabling and the proper support of a loved one struggling with drugs or alcohol. We are very fortunate to have the support of two highly qualified and licensed AODA counselors. They have been gracious enough to commit to attending our meetings so we will always have a counselor present for professional advice. The Family and Friends Support Group meets every other Tuesday evening from 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm. If you are interested in attending or know of someone who may benefit from these meetings, please contact us at [email protected] or visit our website cjlomasrecoveryfoundation.org for more information. Thank you so much & God Bless You
“Keep Smiling”
Charlie, Patti & Christopher Lomas
