Four minutes left on the clock, down 15 points and a win probability of 1.1%
Fans had already started leaving the stadium, everyone thought the game was over.
The Bills didn’t just come back, they persevered.
Recovery from opioid use disorder can be compared to the Buffalo Bills defeating the Ravens: both require persistence, strategy, and teamwork to overcome seemingly overwhelming challenges.
Never, Ever, Ever Give Up
Just as the Bills were facing setbacks, fumbles and tough opponents, people in recovery face relapses, cravings, and stigma. Winning isn’t guaranteed, but perseverance is key. A bad quarter doesn’t define a team, just like a relapse doesn’t mean recovery has failed. The teams may look different in recovery, being made up of individuals, their families, counselors, nurses, providers, and peers, all working together to achieve the best possible outcome. We cheer for our friends and families facing the daily challenges of recovery and support them like we support our Buffalo Bills. But even on days that they have setbacks, they are still our team, just like they are still our loved ones recovering, we don’t give up on our team after one loss and we don’t abandon our loved ones in their recovery journey.
Team Effort for the Win
Ultimately, the Bills’ win is not defined by a single play but by resilience across all four quarters, much like recovery, which is not measured by perfection but by the commitment to keep moving forward despite obstacles.
Trust the Process…With Hope
If you know someone suffering from addiction, the most powerful thing you can do is walk beside them on their journey to recovery.
- Offer your support with compassion and patience and listen without judgment.
- Encourage them to seek professional help, and remind them they are not alone.
- Simple acts like checking in regularly, helping them find resources, driving them to appointments, or attending support meetings can make a world of difference.
Recovery is not a straight path, but with encouragement, understanding, and steady support, you can help them see that healing and hope are possible. Need some support? Reach out to Spectrum Health and the Lombardi-trophy-worthy MAT Team who can talk to you about harm reduction and treatment.
Kristina Moore, RN
