BONNYVILLE - The Bonnyville Indian-Métis Rehabilitation Centre’s (BIMRC) first annual Walk for Wellbriety kicked off with a touching opening ceremony on Aug. 24.
It highlighted BIMRC’s evolving programs, their application of Indigenous practices and wisdom, and their visions for providing a supportive service that helps those in recovery transition into a stable and meaningful life beyond their program.
The Walk for Wellbriety offered attendees not only an opportunity to raise money for a cause while participating in a scenic hike, but to connect with the community and engage with staff and residents at the BIMRC.
BIMRC Executive Director Laura Saffoniuk said they hope the event not only raised awareness but also funds for a cultural outdoor space.
Indigenous Elder Alice Pipe was invited to lead a prayer. Pipe believes in the importance of ceremony, honouring the land, and showing up to educate the next generation.
“It’s very important to me to protect the young people and educate them. And often, we elders end up learning from the young people to. They bring stuff up that we would not experience without them.”
Pipe asked the crowd to join hands in a “family circle” to deliver the prayer, which she compared to a “family reunion” and spoke of how it strengthened the experience of praying for each other.
“This day is to acknowledge the importance of wellness, family, community, and connection – to embrace people in recovery, wellness in families, [and] celebrate healing and recovery,” said Saffoniuk.
She also spoke about the pervasiveness and stigma surrounding addiction, and the organization’s goal to change the outlook on addiction and spread awareness about recovery.
“Addiction is about pain, hurtful lived experiences, grief and loss, generational trauma, and wanting to escape the pain. Here at the BIMRC we are committed to helping anyone. Anyone who is wanting the help to recover and heal,” said Saffoniuk.
Stephen Wright, recovery coach and event organizer, spoke of his dedication to working towards a more connected and healthy future for the community.
“In my work, here at the centre, and in my daily life as a guest on these lands, I’m committed to actively engaging in the process of reconciliation, healing, [and] restoring connections within and between communities,” said Wright.
“It is with deep respect and reverence that I strive to honour the resilience, wisdom, and strength of the indigenous people of this territory, and I’m dedicated to work towards a future rooted in justice, equality, and respect.”
Bonnyville Mayor Elisa Brosseau shared how honoured she was to participate in such a meaningful event.
Brosseau commented on the painted quotes that had been posted along the nearby fence, and how, although they might have been there to inspire the residents at the BIMRC, she found them to hold sage advice for herself as a citizen, a mother, and mayor.
“I’m going to think of those words as I walk along here today,” said Brosseau.
