I am planning to host the first annual Benzo Recovery Summit some time late this summer, or early fall. It’s a dream I have had for a while. Not sure I can pull it off, but I am going to do my best to make it a reality.

My vision for the summit is this: Benzo survivors can meet each other and share their stories. We will meet to brainstorm how to change the current prescribing laws, and how to get more media attention to the cause. Also, how to help others and their families who are still in wd.  I see a time for educating doctors too. Not as adversaries, but as comrades in arms in the war against the damage these drugs do to people. I also see a time to have an open dialogue with the CEOS of the pharma companies that make benzos to ask them to help this cause.  This is NOT a bitch session, a pity party, or a war on the doctors or drug companies.

The summit will be a time to share and care. I am hoping to get it hosted at Stanford, and will do my best to get media coverage so more people get educated about the dangers of these drugs and the long, hard road back to recovery that some of us have to travel.

I can’t do this alone. If anyone wants to join forces with me to brainstorm, make phone calls, plan, etc. please contact me and let me know. I have invited Bliss Johns to attend. She is unable to do so in person due to her heavy counseling career, but she has agreed to take the time off to appear  live via satellite. I’ve invited Matt and I will invite Jack as well. I’ll do my best to find places for people to stay that are affordable. I realize that many are too sick to travel.

I may ask if Stevie Nicks will join us, or any other celeb who is now benzo free.

At this phase it is just a dream. But it’s a good dream. Anyone up for helping to make it a reality?