Local Journalist Offers a Unique Perspective on Addiction

At Governor Christie’s press conference held at Catholic Charities in October announcing the NJ Addiction Task Force, scores of journalists asked questions regarding the new initiative.

However, one reporter listened quietly and left the press conference without asking any questions of the Governor. The story he eventually wrote would be unlike any others offering coverage and analysis of this new statewide effort to prevent and treat addiction.

L.A. Parker, columnist for The Trentonian, started his commentary this way*:

“Many decades before Gov. Chris Christie assembled his Facing Addiction Task Force, announced Thursday during a press conference at Catholic Charities in Trenton, counselors at this 100-year old organization had pulled many from the depths of despair.

“While Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous, rehabilitation centers and thousands of recovery meeting places play a substantial role in arresting addiction, Catholic Charities saved my life.

When my addiction consumed me decades ago, a weekly group meeting at Catholic Charities, plus, individual counseling, offered rescue, salvation, and a restart.”

Read L.A. Parker’s entire commentary here.  

Pictured above: L.A. Parker recently met with Marlene Lao-Collins, Executive Director of Catholic Charities, to discuss his recovery journey.
*Excerpt reprinted courtesy of L.A. Parker and The Trentonian, October 12, 2014