Why I am walking
Born and raised in Sussex County, there are so many memories of growing up and raising my kids here. I care deeply about my community and am hoping my family, friends and colleagues will show their support to help raise funds to assist those in Sussex County struggling with addiction and in need of treatment and recovery supports.
I have renamed my team to be Team Eddie, in memory of a young man gone too soon. Eddie Flanagan was the 29 year old beloved son of friends that I went to high school with, Jim and Connie Flanagan. Eddie was a gentle soul who enjoyed spending time with family and friends. He was a caring and loving person who went out of his way to help everyone and anyone he could, especially those who had no one else. As described by his sister Tara, “Eddie was the most caring, loving and devoted son, brother and uncle that anyone could have ever asked for. He had a light that came from within that would brighten the whole room. He cared for everyone and would do anything to help anyone. Eddie loved his family and friends more than life. He is loved and will be missed more than we could ever express.”
People with substance use disorders are our sons, daughters, mothers, fathers, brothers, sisters, husbands, wives, cousins, loved ones, neighbors and friends. Individuals may struggle for years to regain control of their lives. The Center for Prevention and Counseling, the non-profit agency I have been working for 19 years, started this walk with family and friends in memory of two young men from Sussex County who lost their struggle with addiction. This is our 5th walk with a purpose to raise money to help those struggling. One hundred percent of your donation will go directly to The Center to help those in need of services to aid them in their struggle with addiction as they find their path to recovery. Contribute to this cause and come join us on August 3rd by walking in person or virtually! Thank you for your support, Becky Carlson