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Recovery is a staircase, taking one step at a time.

That was the sentiment from a cyclist who once battled alcoholism and has since remained a sobering example for almost 21 years.

As 'Erik' said before mounting his bike, to admit having a problem and seeking treatment is not such a bad thing.

"If you're having trouble with alcohol or drugs, there is help out there and you can live a really good, healthy life," he said. "I wake up every day and make the conscious decision that I'm not going to drink, and I don't."

While this September marks two decades of National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month, the Iowa Veterans Home and the Substance Abuse Treatment Unit of Central Iowa sponsored its Second Annual Ride For Recovery Sunday at Riverview Park in Marshalltown.

In keeping with this year's theme, "Together We Learn, Together We Heal", guest speaker Paul Daniel, psychologist with Center Associates, was on hand to praise and encourage participants before leading the two-wheeled pack of 30 on a 10-mile ride along Linn Creek Recreation Trail.

"Across the nation today, there are a lot of people gathering for the purpose of recovery," he said. "All of us are recovering from something, but we are constantly on that move to be better and hopefully get to a point where we can fulfill what we have been destined and called to do."

Created last year to commend local citizens, the event drew bike riders ranging from those battling addiction to friends and local officials who came out to pedal their support.

"This ride is a great family event and a wonderful chance for people to celebrate their own recovery," said Rep. Mark Smith, D-Marshalltown.

"It was a beautiful day for us to also celebrate the recovery of our neighbors and family members."

Daniel added that while the area is not without its share of problems, Marshalltown is full of community members willing to help others and "because of that, it is a wonderful place and I'm so glad to be a part of it."

SATUCI provides outpatient treatment, prevention, and education services to the citizens of Marshall, Tama, Poweshiek, and Hardin Counties. For more information, call representative Shannon Chyma at 641-752-5421.

For individuals or families needing addiction advice and treatment information, call the 24-hour Nationwide Addiction Assistance Helpline at 1-800-559-9503.

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Contact Tammy R. Lawson at 641-753-6611 or tlawson@timesrepublican.com