Shellie Gudgeon, a member of Victoria city council, showed courage when she spoke in public Sunday about her struggle with alcoholism. More than that,
she underscored the importance of bringing addictions out into the open so they can be treated, rather than being hidden behind a veil of shame.
Gudgeon was one of the speakers at Recovery Day, an event organized by a group of recovering addicts to celebrate being clean and to help eliminate the stigma that too often accompanies addictions.
Alcoholism is a disease, as are other addictions, but "I am diabetic" is a statement likely to engender sympathy and understanding, while "I'm an alcoholic" is more likely to result in discrimination and condemnation that adds to the feelings of shame and worthlessness many addicts already struggle with.
They need to be supported, not shunned. They need to know they won't be branded losers.
While Gudgeon did not go through treatment or any sort of program - she says she "privately and quietly" chose the path to sobriety - it's a battle not easily fought alone. When a person as prominent as a city councillor shares her story, it offers hope - someone else has been in that dark place and found a way out. If a hero is someone who sets an example of achievement, who inspires others, Gudgeon - though she might be uncomfortable with the label - is a hero.
She isn't the only one - she stood with other heroes in Centennial Square on Sunday, those who organized the Recovery Day event and those who shared their stories, and in doing so help dispel the stigma of a disease that can be treated.
