Powerful testimonies and friendly reunions as CARS marks 40 years

This month, we celebrated 40 years of CrossReach Abstinence Recovery Service (CARS) | Rainbow House. 

In a moving ceremony at Scotstoun Parish Church, service users old and new came together to reflect on the work done at the service through the theme of the day which was "What Rainbow Means to you.”

After a bite to eat, with plenty of food generously donated, gusets sat down to hear some powerful testimonies from speakers.

We first heard from Shug McRoberts, who gave an inspiring talk on his journey from service user to senior development worker at Whiteinch Move-On service. 

Shug’s moving and at times humorous account was a great way to start the afternoon.

We then heard from Dr Trina Ritchie, lead clinician and senior medical officer at GGC Alcohol and Drug Recovery Services.

Dr Trina explained her experience dealing with people in recovery and noted the positive impact services like CARS make in helping those with addiction recover.

Her informative account was followed by Vic Walker, director of adult care who previously worked as managing co-ordinator at CARS.

Vic shared what Rainbow House meant to him, highlighting what a special place it had in his heart with some powerful words.

Guests were involved in much of the afternoon, cheering on those who spoke and showing their support.

In one of the most emotional moments of the afternoon, we heard from Theresa Leatham, the mother of two service users who have been supported by CARS.

Theresa shared a poem she wrote during the early months of her son's recovery journey which captured the impact addiction can have on loved ones.