Paterson pitcher turned pro, then lost his career to addiction. Faith helped him recover

Mike Jackson was a relief pitcher for four pro teams. Addiction left him homeless. Now he helps others get sober as a Straight and Narrow counselor. Michael Jackson of Paterson was once a major league relief pitcher who intimidated batters and awed fans with his powerful left-handed delivery. During a four-year career in the early…

Former Kentucky Teacher of the Year turns focus to addiction recovery

Dueñas was the 2019 Kentucky State Teacher of the Year LOUISVILLE, Ky. — For 13 years, teaching was a passion for Jessica Dueñas. She had worked in Jefferson and Oldham County school districts and in 2019, she was named the Kentucky State Teacher of the Year. “Obviously, the biggest honor I’ve ever had and because…

Man overcomes violent drug-filled past to help others like him on TikTok

Overcoming a past fuelled by drug addiction, crime, violence and prison sentences isn’t easy. But a Swindon man is using TikTok to try to help others like him beat their demons. Paul Simmons, 44, Walcot, appears to be a regular, happy, family man, living with his partner Zasha and two children Frankie, 8  and Lindon, 6, but…

Mom starts charity run to honor son lost to addiction

Two years ago, a mother and her son and daughter ran among nature at Anchor Park in Delray Beach. The trees, plants, and animals. And the peace. For Juliet Ciambrone, the run was more than these things. It was a moment shared with her son. “We had a wonderful experience that day,” she said.On Tuesday,…