Pubdate: Wed, 24 Sep 2003 Source: Maui News, The (HI) Contact: 2003 The Maui News Website: http://www.mauinews.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/2259 Author: Christina Fisher Related: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v03/n1433/a08.html Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/rehab.htm (Treatment) Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/meth.htm (Methamphetamine) Note: To read about the "ice epidemic" in Hawaii, go to http://www.mapinc.org/areas/Hawaii. WEB SITE OPEN TO STORIES FROM RECOVERED ADDICTS Dina Wilson's Sept. 20 letter expressing her frustration with the saturation of negative stories about the "ice" epidemic in Hawaii shines a spotlight on the stigma still associated with drug addiction. Ms. Wilson's comment about a landlord evicting a recovering tenant with a solid 12-year rental history emphasizes the importance of raising the consciousness surrounding these issues in our local communities. The statewide newspaper blitz on ice addiction offers a very detailed picture of the devastation associated with this disease. Some readers will form opinions based on particular issues like criminality, the harmful effects on the children, the environment, the cultural impact, or the cost factor. They may feel compassion or anger, depending on their reality and how it impacts their lives. Dina Wilson is correct. Why not seize this momentum. Encourage others to share their success stories. Next month a newsletter will be launched on the mauicares.org Web site with a special column dedicated to "The Voices of Recovery," focusing on those who have journeyed from addiction to recovery. We encourage you to visit the Web site mauicares.org for other resources and solutions. If you are inspired to take immediate action, join dozens of Maui individuals and participate in the synchronized statewide sign-waving event on Sept. 25, from 4 to 6 p.m. on Kaahumanu Avenue in Kahului. For more ways to get involved, e-mail Christina Fisher Chair, IceBreakers Haiku - --- MAP posted-by: Doc-Hawk