Tifton’s Recovery Fest held this weekend leaves lasting impact

TIFTON, Ga. – The road to recovery can be challenging.

But, the 4th annual Recovery Fest proved no one has to face it alone.

This year’s event was all about community, bringing people together for a day of fun, support, and solidarity.

From ax throwing and bounce houses to free food and activities, there was something for everyone, whether you’re battling addiction yourself or supporting someone who is.

But, more importantly, the day was filled with shared stories of strength and encouragement, reminding everyone to keep fighting and stay on the right path.

“Well, recovery is beautiful. Man, it’s beautiful. Life is beautiful. I believe you know it’s a life. It deserves that. You deserve living. You know, I had made a mistake and got a hold to the wrong truths. And it made me feel about, you know, like, I was seeing differently. Like feeling like something bad was gonna happen to me. So, I decided to check myself into recovery. And, I’ve been here ever since, and I thank God for it,” said Leon Jefferson, resident, Tifton.

There were many testimonies with heartfelt stories about using drugs and how they are trying to continuously move forward in life.

A lot of the time saying they were inspired by the ones closest to them.

“And, I just found a way to try to get in recovery and try to get through it, because I’ve got a son that I’m trying to, you know, be in his life. And, he did change in my life, man, I really want to do it for him. So, he won’t go through the same path I went to. Having this event is very inspiring and I kind of feel so comfortable here. I don’t feel left out. I’m not holding anything in. You know, when you do drugs, you kind of, you isolate yourself how you say it. Yeah, yeah, yeah. You isolate yourself to where you feel like. Don’t let anybody feel your pain and understand you too. And, that’s what makes you want to do drugs. So, I tell you what, man, when you are around a bunch of good people and people that haven’t been through what you’ve been through, it brings it out, man. And, that’s what helps you get through recovery. So, I tell you one thing, man, just be around people. That’s inspiring and you will make it,” said Robert Thomas, resident, Tifton.

According to Gallup, 1 in 3 families have someone affected by addiction.

If you or someone you know needs help, reach out to substance and abuse services for support.

Gabe Hutton reporting.

Copyright 2024 CBS 44 South Georgia. All rights reserved.