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Real Talk about Addiction and Recovery: Eliminating the Whisper
The mission of the American Addiction Recovery Association (AARA) is simple but powerful: To save lives, restore families, and strengthen communities.
AARA is America’s exclusive organization which combines the voices of families and peers together to address the addiction epidemic. Working together, peers and family members will make a difference.
AARA will do for addiction what the Susan G. Komen Foundation has done for breast cancer: shatter stigma and show America that recovery is real.
The number one cause of death in the United States for Americans 18 - 45 is overdose. This is not acceptable. The numbers are at historic highs in terms of cases of active addiction and overdoses. On average, 200 Americans overdose each day which is equivalent to a 737-plane crashing every day.
AARA will work with governments at the federal, state, and local level to advocate for funding and legislation to address the addiction epidemic.
AARA will work with businesses, faith leaders, education leaders, law enforcement, and the medical community to change the culture and offer tools and resources so that those in need of support and help can receive it in a professional and effective manner.
AARA is your trusted leader in improving the lives of individuals and their families impacted by addiction, overdose, and mental health. We support efforts to empower people to live their lives to the fullest in recovery and without the shame and fear associated with stigma.
Real Talk about Addiction and Recovery: Eliminating the Whisper
Every Life Matters: Nurse Andy Gish on Overdose Response & Recovery
Board-Certified ER nurse and overdose prevention educator Andy Gish, RN, BSN, CEN joins us to unpack what real recovery looks like in the middle of the opioid crisis. From helping pass Georgia’s “Don’t Run, Call 911” Medical Amnesty Law to training communities on how to use naloxone and respond to overdoses, Andy has been on the front lines saving lives and changing systems.
We talk about how language and stigma can either push people further into the shadows or open the door to hope, healing, and long-term recovery. Andy breaks down harm reduction in plain language why “harm reduction is kindness,” how recovery and safer use can coexist, and why families, friends, and providers all have a role to play.
If you care about someone who uses substances, work in healthcare, or are walking your own recovery journey, this conversation will leave you with practical tools, fresh hope, and a reminder that where there’s life, there’s hope
#EndTheWhisper
www.EliminatetheWhisper.org