Finding Light Through Art: Theresa Clower's Healing Journey
If people aren't aware of what the issues are and who is dying from this, and that they're regular people and that they're not other than or throw away people, as we've heard many times, then people start to shift their attitudes.
When grief strikes, how do you find a way to heal? In this episode of Recovery Nuggets, David Clemen chats with Theresa Clower, the heart and soul behind INTO LIGHT PROJECT. Theresa shares the deeply personal story of losing her son, Devin, to substance use disorder in 2018. Faced with overwhelming grief, she turned to art, despite never having drawn a portrait before.
What started as a way to process her own pain blossomed into INTO LIGHT PROJECT, a non-profit that uses art to honor those lost to addiction and raise awareness about substance use disorder. Theresa talks about the transformative power of looking into the eyes of the people she draws, capturing their essence and humanity. She emphasizes that these portraits show how alike we all are, breaking down barriers and stereotypes around addiction.
Throughout their conversation, David and Theresa touch on the vital role of education and media in changing perceptions about substance use disorder. They discuss the opioid epidemic's disproportionate impact on people of color and the urgent need for diversity in recovery communities. Theresa believes that everyone has a part to play in supporting those affected by addiction and that community support can be a game-changer in the recovery process.
This episode is not just about art; it's about finding light in the darkest times and the incredible strength of community and support. Tune in for an inspiring and heartfelt discussion that underscores the importance of empathy, education, and unity in the fight against addiction.