Gregory Tatro: A Heartfelt Reflection on Six Years
Six years have passed since the heartbreaking loss of my sister, Jenna, to substance use disorder. As I reflect on this anniversary, I am reminded of the countless families in Vermont and beyond who have endured similar pain and loss. The reality of this crisis is too often overlooked, overshadowed by stigma and misconceptions.
Every day, we lose the equivalent of a jumbo jet full of people to overdoses. If this were happening in any other context, the nation would come to a standstill. But because it is addiction, because of the stigma attached to it, we continue to turn a blind eye. We continue to accept the unacceptable because it is easier to label it as a problem of “those people.”
In the wake of Jenna’s passing, my family and I founded Jenna’s Promise, a beacon of hope for those battling substance use disorder. Our mission is not only to support individuals in their recovery journey but also to challenge the prevailing narrative around addiction. Stigmatizing those in recovery only perpetuates the cycle of loss and despair, robbing communities of their brightest stars.
Stigma acts as a barrier between what is and what could be. It is a fragile wall, waiting to be dismantled by the power of our collective voices. By shedding light on the realities of addiction, we can pave the way for meaningful change. Conversation, empathy, and understanding are crucial components of the healing process.
As we mark the sixth anniversary of Jenna’s passing on February 15th, we invite you to join us in amplifying the voices of those affected by substance use. Use the hashtag #SixYearsOfHope to share messages of support, encouragement, and solidarity. Whether through social media, community forums, or personal anecdotes, your voice has the power to make a difference.
Each of us has a role to play in breaking the silence surrounding addiction and recovery. By speaking out, we not only offer hope to those in need but also challenge societal norms that perpetuate stigma and discrimination. Together, we can create a more inclusive and compassionate world for all individuals, regardless of their struggles.
Your voice matters. Your story matters. By sharing your experiences and insights, you contribute to a larger conversation that transcends boundaries and unites us in our shared humanity. Let us stand together, across Vermont and beyond, to show that recovery is possible, that second chances are worth fighting for.
As we honor Jenna’s memory and the countless others impacted by addiction, let us reaffirm our commitment to building a future where everyone has access to support, dignity, and respect. Your words have the power to inspire change, to offer solace, and to ignite a spark of hope in the darkest of moments.
Thank you for using your voice, for standing alongside us in this journey of healing and transformation. Together, we can make a difference. Together, we can build a world where everyone has the opportunity to thrive and succeed.
With gratitude and hope,
Gregory Tatro, Jenna’s brother
Reflections on Loss and Resilience
As I look back on the past six years since my sister’s passing, I am struck by the resilience and strength of individuals battling addiction. Their stories inspire me to continue the fight against stigma and discrimination, to create a more inclusive and supportive community for all.
Through Jenna’s Promise, we have witnessed firsthand the transformative power of compassion and empathy in the recovery process. By sharing our personal experiences and struggles, we open the door for others to do the same, fostering a sense of connection and understanding that transcends barriers.
Joining Forces for Change
On February 15th, let us come together as a community to raise awareness, advocate for change, and support those in need of hope and healing. By using our voices collectively, we can amplify the message that recovery is possible, that every individual deserves a chance at a brighter future.
Together, we can break the silence, challenge the status quo, and build a more compassionate society for all. Let us stand united in our commitment to ending the stigma surrounding addiction and embracing a future filled with hope, dignity, and respect.
