So often keynote speakers are celebrities with rehearsed speeches who have stopped by Dallas for a worthy and deserving cause. Thank heaven, we seem to get only the best of the speakers including the likes of J.D. Martinez, Wes Moore, Mary Maxwell, Brad Lamm, Nicholas Sparks and John Laroquette to mention just a few.
But leave it to buddies Robin Bagwell and Jan Osborn to tap local resources who have literally walked the torturous path that a family must endure in the recovery process from addiction for their “Caron Cares: A Day of Discovery and Recovery.” The September 28th event co-chairs reached out to Lee Ann White and her son Michael Fowler for the Caron Cares conference at the Omni Dallas.
Why Lee Ann and Michael? Oh, you must have focused too long on the headlines of Lee Ann’s involvement with everything from non-stop philanthropy to 10 Best Dressed or Michael’s work hand-holding those in need.
But their personal story of living through the ups, downs and grand emergence is stunningly amazing. Yes, Arkansas-born Lee Ann with her diamond blue eyes, never-ending energy and sharp-as-a-laser-beam-brain can handle the subjects of politics, business and sociology like the best of Sunday morning talk show hosts.
And, despite having successful parents, Michael has beautifully balanced his own identity with the rest of his family to become a marvelous man, who has mastered the art of comforting others.
But their journey to 2012 is a tapestry to be studied and learned from. That’s why Robin and Jan were determined to have them as the breakfast speakers with Nancy and Jack Zogg serving as honorary chairs.
According to the gals, “Michael will explain how growing up in a loving family with means and opportunities did not shield him from the disease of addiction. He will share how his family’s love and support provided him an opportunity to live in recovery while helping others with his story of strength, hope and courage.”
On the other hand, Lee Ann will tell of “her journey of support and tough love through Michael’s recovery.”
Following Lee Ann and Michael, the conference participants will be able to attend one of two lectures and then lunch, at which keynote speakers mother/daughter co-authors Constance Curry and Kristina “Kristi” Wandzilak will share their parent/child journey through addiction and “most importantly recovery.”
This whole subject is difficult to face to say the very least. Until you’ve experienced or witnessed firsthand the agony, struggle and dynamics of a family going through this process, you cannot imagine how important these personal revelations are.
And for those who have been lucky enough to have been spared such ordeals, these shared tales may just help provide insight on how addictions can seep into even the most ideal family.
It may only be June, but you just might want to get your reservation in now or check out sponsorship availability.
Photos provided by Caron Cares
yvonne says
From the horses mouth! very refreshing approach.. i love this.. and what courage it takes… blessings to all for telling their stories…
Robin bagwell says
Sure to be a great day of discovery and recovery! Thanks for the write up Jean.