On June 18, 1998 Damien Massella,  died of a heroin overdose. The problem itself was not the heroin but the crippling disease of addiction. Addiction afflicts millions of Americans independent of race, economic status, age or anything else. Like cancer, addiction can manifests itself regardless of family history.

Unfortunately addiction has a harrowing association in our community. We look towards the inner cities with a sad and vengeful countenance thinking about the junkies who infiltrate our precious suburbs. Addicts have great difficulty controlling their behavior and addiction’s hold goes beyond the detox process once an addict’s physical body does not crave its drug. They need community support in order to face their addiction and to create and live productive lives.

Damien’s Recovery is a not for profit organization inspired by Damien’s real life struggle with addiction. With Damien’s experience as a high school student as proof the school system and community needs help acknowledging that addiction is a real issue especially for those in middle and high school. Damien’s four years in high school highlight the need for support, encouragement, and education regarding addiction.

Damien’s fate was sealed two years ago but his memory will live on as inspiration to others. He struggled with the added difficulty of daily opposition, resentment and misunderstanding thrust on top of his disease. But other young addicts do not have to carry out their lives in the same manner. Some day our communities will understand the nature of addiction and how it afflicts every single school. Every single school, not just those in less than affluent areas.

Damien’s Recovery offers scholarships to college bound students, independent of financial need, planning to engage in a course of study in one of the following areas: education, social work, counseling, outdoor education, or any other area involving young people. These positions in our society are a prime opportunity for adults to interact with young addicts in a positive way, providing support and encouragement indescribably helpful to their recovery. The scholarship can be used to pay for tuition, books, room and board, or for any other required expenses. If you feel you are a good candidate for a scholarship please fill out an application and send to address listed.

Thank you

Damien's Recovery