Mothers Against Methamphetamine is working harder than ever to fight the scourge of this drug in our area.  They've worked with a few local organizations to bring in a great speaker who has personal experience in the matter, David Parnell.

According to his website, David Parnell is a public speaker, author, consultant, and advocate for drug endangered children. He has literally spoken to tens of thousands of people in over thirty states and in three countries during the past five years about the dangers of methamphetamine. He also has provided his services to legal and medical professionals, politicians, and clergy when they are looking for ways to combat methamphetamine or advance recovery options.

David spent twenty-three years abusing drugs, seven years of which he was addicted to methamphetamine. Methamphetamine is highly addictive stimulant, which severely affects the brain. Under its influence, he even attempted suicide by shooting himself. He shot himself under the chin with an SKS assault rifle, blowing his face apart. Though he survived, he sustained severe injuries. To this day he still occasionally undergoes reconstructive surgery.

David came out of the grasp of methamphetamine after a hard and prolonged struggle. As of June 23, 2010, he has 7 years and 4 months clean and sober. Now, he focuses on drug prevention by educating and warning people about the dangers of addictive substances, particularly methamphetamine, in part by using his own life as an example. He has received an overwhelming positive response for his efforts.

David presents his lectures in schools, churches, community group gatherings, jails, and rehabs. His audiences include various sections of the society from students to people recovering from substance abuse. His personal story acts as both caution and inspiration to others. It cautions others to stay away from addictive substances and inspires people to get free from the spell of such substances. It also makes people realize how drug use affects everyone and leads them to get involved in the fight against drugs like methamphetamine.  I got to speak with Claudia Kays, the Executive Director of MAMA, about David's speaking engagements in our area and the upcoming auction.

The Mothers Against Methamphetamine is working with the Mental Health Association of Saline County and the Pettis County Health Center, along with the State Fair Community College to bring in Mr Parnell.  This is a free event for the community, but some material may not be suited for younger children.

He’ll be speaking on October 14 at 6:30 p.m. at the Thompson Conference Center, in the Heckart Science building on the SFCC Campus.  He’ll also be speaking on October 16 at 6:30 p.m. at the Marshall High School Little Theater.  CEU Credits are available.  They'll also be having a big benefit auction coming up on Saturday the 18th at 5:00 p.m. down at the VFW in Downtown Sedali, don't miss it! Call 660-202-9619 for more information, and see them at their new office, 505 South Kentucky, Suite B.

Soberly yours,
Behka

More From KIX 105.7