By Sue Wambolt, Contributing Writer
Marlborough – In an effort to save lives through awareness and education, Marlborough moms Maureen Begg and Carol Pickford have begun an informal support group for those who are suffering from opiate addiction. The group, which is also for loved ones, first began meeting at Begg’s home in April. Recently is has relocated to the Fraternal Order of Eagles #3565, 56 Florence St., Marlborough. Meetings take place the first Tuesday of the month from 7-9 p.m.
On Tuesday, July 7, Mike Duggan will be guest speaker at the monthly support group. An ex-addict and a certified interventionist, Duggan is founder of Wicked Sober Incorporated. During the open forum gathering, Duggan will share tips and strategies on what types of signs to look for and what support services are available to families of those who have a member who is an addict. The meeting is free and open to the public.
According to the duo, the goal of the support group is to help to save lives through awareness and education and to do so in an environment free of shame. The message, they shared, is about hope.
Both Begg and Pickford have been affected by someone with an opiate addiction and both are determined to be a catalyst for change – to do what they can to help local opiate addicts and their loved ones.
“I was touched by the story of a 30-year-old local male who struggled with opiate addiction,” said Begg. “His addiction brought him close to death, but with proper intervention he is now in recovery. I started the group (with Carol) knowing the amount of people right here in our community struggling with this disease and hoping that I could do something to help.”
For Pickford, who lost a niece to opiate addiction after a 22-year battle, the motivation to help is personal.
“I have always had a place in my heart for those suffering with substance disorder and firmly believe addiction is not a choice but rather a disease and deserves the same attention as any other illness,” Pickford said. “Too many lives are being lost to this disease, and not enough is being done. I am hopeful that people will get on board because there is strength in numbers and together we can make changes that matter.”
For more information on Wicked Sober visit wickedsober.com.