LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION memorializing Governor David A. Paterson to
proclaim May 4, 2009, as Your Story Matters Day in the State of New York

WHEREAS, There are 2.5 million New Yorkers who suffer from alcohol, drug
or gambling addiction, thousands of whom are living stories of long-term
recovery and can share their experiences; and
WHEREAS, Recovery from the chronic disease of addiction is not merely
abstinence, but includes a lifestyle of health and wellness that
supports a productive life in the community; and
WHEREAS, Your Story Matters Day is a time for individuals in recovery
who have struggled and worked hard to continue their journey of recovery
to celebrate their revitalization by proudly telling their story of who
they are today; and
WHEREAS, These powerful stories will help reduce the stigma so wrongly
associated with addiction and offer hope to individuals who are dealing
with alcohol, drug or gambling addiction; and
WHEREAS, To help with this endeavor, the New York State Office of
Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services has launched the Your Story
Matters campaign, which offers individuals in recovery and their loved
ones the opportunity to tell their stories through the website,
www.iamrecovery.com; and
WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to encourage those
in recovery to join this growing community and help show the world that
recovery from addiction is possible; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
memorialize Governor David A. Paterson to proclaim May 4, 2009, as Your
Story Matters Day in the State of New York; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to The Honorable David A. Paterson, Governor of the State of New
York.