Sometimes it’s hard to tell if my ghosts are calling me “stupid man” or “superman.”
Living with last year’s letter in The Chief, “I am so sorry, Squamish” has been both tough and tumble. I was told many phoned in to The Chief newspaper to say it was a positive read on facing addiction.
Even before last year’s letter, I stayed at a recovery centre for 2.5 months.
While I was there, the BC Sport Hall of Fame had asked me to be a part of the Aboriginal exhibit and so I sent in all my medals only to have to return them later.
This was tough for me. This road has been long to face up to why I have always felt something missing and seeing how addiction is a light on what needs love, care and attention, not a shaming.
Nor wondering if I am a good enough person.
Guess I cared enough [about myself] to do some things over the past year such as self-admittance into Vancouver detox, 2.5 months at a sober house and also a month at a wellness centre.
Truth is though that the Sea to Sky community is to thank for supporting me in all areas. The Squamish mental health and addictions team along with Helping Hands, Whistler Community Services and Chopra Centre staff all get a sacred bow of thanks from this dude. There are angels out there.
Also, if you have an addictions problem, my advice is first Vancouver detox and being willing to finally be what you do.
After only 12 days on the bike in August and 1,000 kilometres done, I did the Gran Fondo in 3:41:07 and am super happy with my result. I rode from Squamish to Whistler with my heart and felt strong while pushing other groups and getting a nod of respect from many out there. Mad respect back to all who rode. Although I am signed up now to compete in the Whistler WAM 100 mile race Sept. 20, I am taking the preparation in stride and seeing what is possible. After riding back to Squamish from the Fondo finish, I managed a double repeat run of the Stawamus Chief the next day and so will see how things are in a week of more running build up.
Here is a cheers to all you out there doing what you do to be what you do.
Jason Loutitt
Squamish
Editor’s note: The Chief was told by the BC Sports Hall of Fame that they received far more applications for the Indigenous Sport Gallery than they could accommodate and that is why some, such as Jason’s, were turned down and returned, for now.
”We remain inspired by Jason’s triumphs and look forward to seeing his continued success in B.C. and around the world,” said Jason Beck, the curator of the BC Sports Hall of Fame in an emailed statement to The Chief.
