Each year, there are more than 20,000 alcohol-induced deaths in the U.S., including more than 12,000 from liver disease. In addition, roughly 50,000 people die each year from their use of illegal drugs. Many of those who suffer the most are people who cannot afford the treatment, spend time incarcerated, and re-offend and relapse later, with devastating results for themselves and their families.
In May, on my oldest daughter’s 6th birthday, I’ll run the Bayshore Marathon in Traverse City, MI. In an effort to raise awareness of this tragic and costly social problem, I’m asking for pledges to raise enough money to send one person through an addiction treatment center.
According to the Center for Disease Control and the American Society of Addiction Medicine, professional treatment in rehab centers or medical facilities is one of the best methods for breaking the cycle of addiction. Participants are much more likely to stay sober than those who do not receive this valuable treatment.
Dakoske/Phoenix treatment center in Traverse City, MI, has helped thousands of addicts (alcohol and illicit drugs) get clean since they were established more than 15 years ago. You can learn more about Dakoske/Phoenix at their website.
The average stay in the center is 21 days at a cost $160 per day. Many of the candidates for this program do not have the means to pay for their treatment. The local, state, and federal governments assist where they can. I’m asking you to help me send one candidate through the treatment center. That cost is $3,360.
Last year, as you recall, I ran the Nashville Marathon and raised more than $1,200 for the fight against Multiple Sclerosis. Please help me reach my goal this year to help battle addiction. Fill out the pledge form for whatever amount you can afford - $1, $5, $20, or more. Your gift is tax-deductible. You will not be asked to make any payments online today. Your pledge will be recorded, and in June you’ll receive a letter asking you to send your pledged amount to Dakoske/Phoenix treatment center. I’ll also include details of my run and some information on addiction treatment, as I know it’s something we’re all touched by.
If you have any questions about my Run for Recovery, please leave a comment here or leave a comment when filling out the pledge form.
- Dan