“This is freedom.” Hundreds gather in Branson to celebrate addiction recovery

BRANSON, MO. (KY3) – Survivors of substance use disorders and mental health issues gathered in Branson on Saturday for a festival celebrating addiction recovery.

Hundreds of people gathered Temple of HopeHome to more than 30 local institutions, resources, organizations, and dishes for everyone to enjoy.

Jessica Owens, who attended the event, said she has been sober for nine months and has never felt better.

“This is freedom, truly freedom,” Owens said. “I wake up every morning and actually start living life.”

Owens said Saturday was all about being part of a welcoming community that has gone through similar struggles with addiction.

“I think it’s great that I can quote the words of all these people,” he said. “It’s all positive, informative, and I love sharing it.”

Tammy McLaughlin helps manage Stone County Rescue Center. McLaughlin said he has been sober for almost 11 years.

“Recovery is possible,” McLaughlin said.

McLaughlin went on to help start the nonprofit to help others in her community find hope and know they are not alone.

“We offer AA, NA, SMART Recovery,” he said. “It’s 100 percent peer-run, so we all have lived experience.”

Barbara Stewart is the co-founder of the rescue organization. Celebrate RecoveryHe manned one of the stands on Saturday.

“They know they’re not alone,” Stewart said. “There are a lot of people who can walk alongside them.”

This is the fourth year for the attraction, and event coordinators told KY3 they hope each year gets bigger and better.

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