September is Alcohol and Drug Addiction Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness and funds to combat these serious issues.
In the narrative below, Chris Herren, founder The Herren Project, shares his personal struggle with addiction and how you can get involved to make a difference.
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I grew up in Fall River, Massachusetts and developed into one of the top high school basketball players in the United States. Scoring over 2,000 points in high school and being named a McDonald’s All-American, I came from a lineage of basketball players and the Herren name had a strong history with high expectations.
On the basketball court at age 18, I was being recruited by the best colleges and felt the pressure of the scoreboard each and every game. Playing in sold out gyms, I was programmed to be tough and win, but I didn’t understand the dangers of a red solo cup or partying with friends in the basement.
After being introduced to cocaine in college, it took hold of me throughout my college career. Drafted into the NBA, I realized my childhood dream of playing for the Boston Celtics only to continue struggling with addiction, first with pills and finally heroin. In June of 2008, I was found crashed into a cemetery fence after suffering an overdose; out of options and opportunities.
Blessed with a strong family and support system, friends stepped in with financial support and a strong hand to lead me to an extended treatment program. On August 1, 2008, I found recovery through the gift of treatment. I gained the hope and courage to navigate my recovery journey and be the father and husband I was meant to be.
Addiction impacts 1/3 of all American households, touching over 85 million lives. There are 22 million Americans suffering from addiction and one life is lost every 4 minutes. Families are struggling to assist love ones and don’t know where to turn.
In 2011, I founded The Herren Project to answer those calls, increase education and public awareness on the dangers of substance abuse and to assist one person, one family at a time through a combination of treatment navigation, educational initiatives, mentoring, and public awareness.
It is through prevention and education efforts that we can make an impact on the youth and ask them WHY they need a substance to change who they are. Why they just can’t be themselves on Friday and Saturday night. My message to kids nationwide is to be proud of who you are; BE YOU.
The journey can be long and tough, but the impact of assisting families navigate quality, affordable treatment options for their loved ones or watching a teen find their voice and feel good about BEING YOU is worth everything I have been through.
The Herren Project is proud and grateful to partner with ALEX AND ANI | CHARITY BY DESIGN through the Take the Wheel Charm Bangle. This new collaboration will enable us to provide guidance, hope, and navigation for many families as they look towards life’s journey.
I am grateful for this bangle as it is a reminder of how I navigate my journey knowing that with guidance and love anything is possible. Please join The Herren Project and ALEX AND ANI as we seek to make a difference.
