Story By MARY BAILEY
Over 300 people participated in the annual Recovery Walk Saturday morning hosted by R.O.S.S. Marshall County.
Church groups, community organizations, individuals who have overcome addition and those who support them all gathered together for one reason, they are stronger together, which has become a motto at R.O.S.S.
“We would like to thank the Albertville City Police and Marshall County for all the support they continue to show us,” said Michael Baker, Director of R.O.S.S. Marshall County. “The city of Albertville has been amazing helping us to stay safe as we do this walk, also in leading people to us for their recovery. It is very humbling how much this community supports R.O.S.S.”
Scott McCook Jr. is one of many in the community that appreciates R.O.S.S. and all it has done for him and others.
McCook, now 37, has been incarcerated and in institutions since he was twelve years old.
“I was homeless as an I.V. drug user. I was a straight A student when I wasn’t kicked out or sent off,” he said of his past. “The walk for recovery was so powerful to be gathered with the multitude that attended. So many of us together from different walks of life with same goal in mind. To overcome what society fails to acknowledge, a disease of addiction. It’s important to remember that we can’t recover alone. The most important person in our community is the person with the less clean time. Being joined together and fellowshipping reduces the feelings of uncertainty. It’s very vital being around like-minded people for encouragement. Having a R.O.S.S. Center is very vital for people who struggling because they do not judge, and they love people through their struggling of their addiction. They provide housing, counseling, meetings, food and just about anything else they’re a loving family who actually care about each other’s well-being.”
McCook is currently with Jesus Recovery House Ministries as a coordinator.
“I’m also a member of AA and stay in contact with many R.O.S.S. employees,” McCook said of his new life without drugs. “Working the twelve steps of AA and attending Blessed Hope Church has taught me how to live life on life’s terms and establish a relationship with a higher power who I choose, which is Jesus Christ. Since coming into Jesus Recovery House, I’ve received grace from the courts, responsibility, accountability, and a relationship with my family. I’ve also learned to love myself.”
For more information about R.O.S.S. Marshall County, visit rossmc4us@gmail.com or call (256) 281-9008.
