Butler County woman to be featured in new A&E show about addiction

An area woman who overcame a lengthy opioid addiction that started after a surgery will be featured in a new A&E network series, "Addiction Unplugged" that premieres on Saturday.

Amy Parker, 37, of West Chester, works as a peer recovery supporter at BrightView and also trains others to serve in similar roles to improve the lives of others.

According to the A&E Network, Parker has fully regained her health and her life and has been in recovery for seven years. She has been repeatedly noted by national media including the large upcoming role in “Addiction Unplugged.”

A viewing party has been planned for noon to 2 p.m. Saturday at Gracie’s, 1131 Central Ave., No. 102, in Middletown. Space is limited, so people are encouraged to call Gracie’s for reservations.

“The episodes feature first-hand accounts from the perspectives of the addicts in recovery, their loved ones whose lives have been ripped apart, the mentors and a handful of cutting-edge treatment centers that have far exceeded national success rates,” according to a release from A&E Network.

“I met Amy a while back as we both worked in the addiction treatment and recovery space,” said Shawn Ryan, chief medical officer and BrightView co-founder. “I found her impressive and inspirational and knew that she would be an asset to our patients. She has lived to tell her story. This offers hope to people when they often need it most.”

BrightView treats the whole person to promote long-term recovery, according to officials.

“Once I was in long-term sobriety and felt healthy, I realized that I had things to add to the national conversation about recovery. I also knew that I could help people,” Parker said. “I am thrilled that A&E included me in this program. It is a way to reach people on their own terms.”

Parker grew up in Trenton, and now lives in West Chester. She also faced various criminal charges for theft, burglary and robbery in Middletown Municipal Court because of her drug addiction. However, she was never charged with a felony.

“I put a ton of myself out there to encourage people to get help as well as help people understand treatment options,” Parker said. “I try to educate family members from the perspective of an addict.”

Her message to addicts in recovery was not to lose hope and that there are various ways to recovery. She also said she helps families better understand the expectations of treatment and recovery.

Parker was featured on CBS in December and is also working on a book about her life.


HOW TO GO

WHAT: A viewing party for a new series "Addiction Unplugged" on the A&E Network

WHEN: Noon to 2 p.m. Saturday

WHERE: Gracie's, 1131 Central Ave., #102, in Middletown.

MORE INFORMATION: Space is limited, please call Gracie's for reservations at 513-456-2475;

www.graciesmiddletown.com

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