Recently, Year10 students at Port Macquarie High School were privileged to attend a seminar where they were addressed by members of the RODE 2 RECOVERY group who are on a 1000km cycle trek to address students about the dangers of drugs and alcohol.
The RODE 2 RECOVERY ride is supported by the Salvation Army, who run rehabilitation programs for people who have to deal with addictions. The group of 20 men who visited the school have admitted they have a dependency on drugs or alcohol and, as part of their treatment, are speaking to high school students about their own experiences. The hope is that it will prevent more young people falling into a trap that can lead to a life of crime, domestic violence, gaol, poor health, loss of jobs and a career, depression, mental illness and even suicide.
Students were confronted with the stark reality of lives ruined by addiction. Justin spoke of his problem with mainly heroin but also other drugs and his time in gaol; Jake told the audience of his addiction to marijuana, losing his job and selling drugs and the fear of being shot by other addicts; Mark reflected on a life being destroyed by alcohol to the point that he went to bed not wanting to wake up the next day; and young Ted, only 20 years old, turned to alcohol and then drugs as a way of coping with being told he was useless and stupid.
The Salvation Army chaplain Jim Burton made it clear to everyone that they can say “No” whenever placed in harm’s way. The students were totally captivated by the visit and were able to take away a powerful message that will stay with them for some time. A wrist band with the message “Education Awareness Prevention” was given to everyone present.
