About
Welcome to "Healing Mind, Body, & Soul: Recovering from the Trauma of Addiction" seminar, where healing, hope, and transformation converge. Our mission is to address the profound impact of addiction on individuals and communities, while fostering empathy, understanding, and resilience.
Featuring TEDx Keynote Speaker
Guy Felicella: A Story of Resilience
Harm Reduction & Recover Advocate
Guy Felicella's life has been a journey of overcoming adversity. Growing up in a middle-class home in British Columbia, Guy faced trauma, undiagnosed ADHD, and difficulties at home and school, leading him into addiction at a young age. For 30 years, he cycled through gangs, addiction, treatment, and jail.
Despite nearly two decades of homelessness in Vancouver's Downtown Eastside, surviving the HIV/AIDS crisis, life-threatening infections, and multiple overdoses, Guy's determination and the support of others propelled him towards recovery. Today, with over a decade of sobriety, Guy is a passionate advocate for those still suffering from addiction and mental health challenges.
Hosted by
Pam Rader: A Journey of Empowerment
Loving Your Addict Support Group
Pam's own journey of resilience and transformation serves as a powerful testament to the human spirit's capacity for growth and renewal. Faced with adversity, including surviving abusive relationships and witnessing her son's battle with opioid addiction, Pam refused to be defined by her circumstances. Instead, she embarked on a path of self-discovery, empowerment, and ultimately, healing.
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As the host and author, Pam shares her personal journey to inspire hope, foster empathy, and drive meaningful change in our communities.
With Author
Luke Wiltshire: From Despair to Transformation
Kelowna Gospel Mission Addictions Case Worker
Confronted with life's brutal trials—childhood trauma, addiction, violence, loss, and survival on the streets—Luke’s soul refused to be overshadowed by past darkness. Enduring kidnapping, torture, and the battle against substance dependence, his path was one few could tread without faltering. Yet, from despair, a profound transformation was ignited. Through relentless perseverance, recovery, and education, he forged a new purpose in service to others.
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As one of the compilation book authors, Luke shares his remarkable journey to inspire resilience, hope, and empowerment.
Meet and Greet the Authors
Connect directly with some of the inspiring authors of "Healing Mind, Body, & Soul: Recovering from the Trauma of Addiction." Engage in intimate conversations and gain deeper insights into their personal stories of healing, recovery, and resilience.
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During this event, you'll have the opportunity to find hope for your own recovery journey or for family members of those suffering from addiction. Whether you're seeking guidance, support, or simply connection, join us for an enriching experience as we come together to share, learn, and grow in community.
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Additionally, discover practical ways to better help your community in this time of crisis. Gain insights and strategies for supporting individuals struggling with addiction and mental health challenges, and learn how to advocate for compassionate, community-based approaches to recovery.
Important Topics Covered
Our seminar delves into a range of important topics, including:
• Harm reduction
• Drug policies
• Prohibition
• The stigma that surrounds mental health and addiction
• Homelessness
• Trauma
• Healing and recovery
• How to make a difference
Through engaging presentations, intimate discussions, and interactive sessions, we aim to provide comprehensive insights and strategies for addressing these critical issues.
Why It Matters
"Healing Mind, Body, & Soul" is more than just an event; it's a catalyst for change. By addressing the stigma surrounding addiction and mental health, advocating for harm reduction policies, and promoting compassionate, community-based approaches to recovery, we aim to spark meaningful conversations and drive systemic change.
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Together, we can break down barriers, challenge misconceptions, and create a future where healing and recovery are accessible to all. Join us on this journey of empathy, understanding, and transformation.
Space Available for Recovery Organizations
We invite recovery organizations to join us and showcase their invaluable resources and services. Space will be provided for organizations to set up information tables or representation, allowing them to connect directly with attendees and share information about their organization's mission, programs, and support services. This is an excellent opportunity for organizations to raise awareness, build connections, and provide support to individuals and families affected by addiction. If your organization is interested in participating, please contact us for more information on reserving a space.