Shonna Frye, a Peer Recovery Coach at the Wabash Valley Recovery Center, joined David and Shelby Thursday morning on WTWO Today to share her story of recovery, and to discuss an event that’s coming up this week to raise awareness to the issue of addiction. You can see the full interview on the top of this page.

TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) — The Wabash Valley Recovery Center in Terre Haute is hosting it’s “Blackout Addiction Glow Run” on Friday.

The event will feature speakers, live music, food, resources, a job fair and 5K race.

Race registration starts at 5:00 p.m. for pre-registered and day of attendees. Opening ceremonies begin at 6:00 p.m., followed by a Butterfly release in honor of those lost to overdose and addiction.

“We are also doing something new this year with an LED screen showing photos of those lost to overdose and addiction, as well as those who are now in recovery from substance use,” explains Shonna Frye, a Peer Recovery Coach at the Wabash Valley Recovery Center.

“The race, which is 5K, will begin promptly at 8:30 p.m.. Runners and walkers will be sprayed throughout the race with glow paint. I will remind you to bring a change of clothes and/or a towel because it can and does get messy!”

Battling meth addiction for 20+ years, sober for 15

Frye is no stranger to recovery programs. She faced her own battles with addiction and came out on the other side to inspire others to make a life-changing decision to get help.

“I was arrested federally in 2008 for conspiracy to distribute meth. I spent 4 years in federal prison and did a very extensive drug program while there that taught me many skills and tools. I learned alot about myself and why I had done the things that I did. I was a 20+ year meth addict.”

Today, she is 15 years sober and helping others struggling to get their addiction under control.

“I have gotten my certificate to be a Certified Addictions Peer Recovery Coach. I also completed the New Citizens program at Hamilton Center, which led me to being employed by Wabash Valley Recovery Center,” Frye said. “I have done jail mentoring and am currently the driver for the transportation program that gives free rides to those in recovery.”

CLICK HERE to learn more about the Wabash Valley Recovery Center.

Community needs more addiction resources

While Frye is thankful for her sobriety, she says the community needs more resources to help those recovering.

“While the resources have increased significantly over the past 4 or so years, I believe we still need more. I know that we for sure need more funding for things such as stable housing and sober living residence entry fees, as well as sober living residences in general,” Frye said. “We could also form more accessible mental health care.”

Frye has a message for those currently suffering from addiction, “Help is available and we know what you’re going through. We at Wabash Valley Recovery Center have the lived experience factor, enabling us to relate from a personal perspective. All of our services are free and confidential. We have certified specialists on staff. We want to remind you that you don’t have to do it alone and you shouldn’t have to.”