It’s been nearly two months since Norma Ramirez gave a testimonial at Recovery Out Loud in Great Bend and she is still hearing from individuals, churches and other entities.
“I’ve had a lot of calls since giving my testimonial. Actually, the most recent phone call came in today (Oct. 15) from a church,” said Ramirez, 41, Great Bend. “They want me to share my story of recovery.”
This type of response is only one reason Ramirez is glad she started her road to recovery earlier this year and later shared with the Recovery Out Loud audience. There have been a number of other life-changing results.
Ramirez’ journey began when Amy Ferguson, program coordinator of Rise Up Central Kansas, drove her to City on a Hill, a rehabilitation facility in Dighton. She has been clean for close to eight months now.
“And on April 6 this year, I gave my life to God. I now have everything I ever wanted,” Ramirez said. “I have a house, a job and relationships with my five kids and 12 grandchildren.”
After she learned about Recovery Out Loud, which is sponsored by Rise Up, she decided she was ready to tell her story – out loud.
“This was my first time doing anything like this,” Ramirez commented. “I thought a testimonial from the heart would be a good way to grow in my recovery.”
Ramirez acknowledged she has a history of not being present for her family.
“They were there, but I wasn’t. My kids didn’t believe I would get clean. Even after three months, they still didn’t believe. Now they are so proud of me. I wouldn’t trade my precious moments with family for anything.
“The changes in my life are the result of teamwork,” she added. “On my side I have God, Rise Up and Recovery Out Loud.”
Ramirez, who has been seeing a local therapist, strongly encourages others to seek guidance from Rise Up or other community resource “because of how much this has changed my life. Get help before it’s too late.”
She leads a Spanish-speaking recovery meeting and is willing to hear from others who want more information or to set up a time to speak to a group. Her number is 620-617-0537.
Amy Ferguson/Rise Up
Amy Ferguson referred to Ramirez as “inspirational and a true success story.”
Approximately 100 people heard her testimonial, which was just one of 22 presentations to the Recovery Out Loud audience.
While planning for this annual event, Ferguson keeps not just individuals in mind but also their families.
“This is a family-oriented event, with kids’ games and Timbi Talks, a program designed for youngsters who have a parent struggling with addiction. We really encourage family participation.”
Recovery Out Loud was a two-day event this year for the first time, with a Color Fun Walk/Run, the Narcan March, interactive games, healthy snacks and information about local resources that support recovery and wellness.
“We are so grateful to all the individuals and agencies that supported this event,” Ferguson said. “It is always great to see neighbors supporting and uplifting people in recovery.”
Rise Up is a task force under the Central Kansas Partnership umbrella. For more information, contact Ferguson by calling 620-639-0125 or emailing riseupcentralks@gmail.com.
