Celebrating Recovery in Asheville: A Heartfelt Graduation Ceremony
Asheville, N.C. has a lot to celebrate these days, especially with the inspiring news surrounding the *Buncombe County Sheriff’s Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) program*. Now in its fifth year, this initiative is making a significant impact by helping detainees embark on their journey toward long-term recovery from opioid addiction.
On September 13, a heartfelt graduation ceremony took place at Pack Square Park, where four courageous women crossed an important milestone in their recovery journey. With J. Quentin Miller, the Buncombe County Sheriff, leading the ceremony, these graduates received the coveted challenge coins—a symbol of their triumph over obstacles on their path to sobriety.
The Power of Support and Community
“This program is pivotal to a successful transition after someone is released from jail,” Sheriff Miller explained. He emphasized the necessity of such initiatives, noting that, “I have the largest facility for people who have mental health and substance use challenges. It’s called the Buncombe County jail; I have the most beds.” With this understanding, the MAT program has been designed to provide the support and resources necessary for individuals to rebuild their lives.
Take Amy Gilbert, for instance, whose journey began with an arrest for fentanyl possession back in 2024. Reflecting on her experience, Amy described the initial whirlwind of emotions: “It’s scary; it’s kind of like a whirlwind. You’re not sure which way is up, which way is down. It’s really scary.” Yet, thanks to the help she received through the MAT program, she stands before us today as a proud graduate and now serves as the president of the Oxford House, a group residence tailored for individuals in recovery.
Her message resonates strongly: “You can make it… it’s a struggle and it’s a fight…it’s an everyday fight, but it’s worth it. So worth it when you come out on the other end; you’ll want to help other people get there too.” Words like these shine a light on the potential for change and healing.
The Power of Resilience
Another graduate, Ashley Wilson, shared her own harrowing journey leading her to this moment. Having found herself in and out of jail three times, Ashley finally embraced the support system provided by the MAT program. “I lost my kids; my mom was murdered. I’ve been through a lot, so I would use drugs to cope with that,” she reflected. However, through the love and understanding she encountered within the program, Ashley has turned her life around and is determined to share her story.
Then there’s Ashley Barrett, who’s also transformed dramatically since her time in the MAT program. She expressed joy about where her life has taken her post-recovery: “My life is amazing now. It feels good to get up and go to work and not need something to do that.” Furthermore, she shared the *joy of communicating with her son*, emphasizing the importance of these connections made possible through her recovery.
A Community Unified for Change
The Buncombe County Sheriff’s Department has collaborated with the *Sunrise Community For Recovery and Wellness Center* to provide essential support and resources. Funded by a grant from the *North Carolina Department of Public Safety*, the MAT program continues to break down stigma surrounding drug addiction and pave the way for healing within the community.
As these brave women step forward into their next phase of recovery, they continue to follow their medical treatments and therapies while working to change the perception of addiction and build brighter futures for themselves and others.
Asheville is not just witnessing a ceremony but is also embracing a movement towards **heal**ing and **hope**—reminding us all that recovery is possible. Each graduate’s story serves as a beacon for those still struggling, proving that with **dedication** and the right **support**, a transformative path lies ahead.
