Light Over Shadows Day created to raise awareness, curb stigma
A sign carries a message Saturday at Rotary Park on Light Over Shadows Day. (Elizabeth Pond/Durango Herald)
Manna Soup Kitchen, the La Plata County Health Department and a range of other organizations and individuals celebrated Light Over Shadows day Saturday with a community event in Rotary Park intended to raise awareness around substance use and mental health.
La Plata County Commissioners officially recognized the day in late April with a proclamation.
“The Board of County Commissioners of La Plata County, Colorado, hereby proclaims May 9, 2026, as ‘Light Over Shadows Day’ and encourages all residents to join in efforts to reduce stigma, support recovery, and uplift the voices of those affected by mental health and substance use challenges,“ the proclamation read.
The event included a mental health walk and speeches by people who have been impacted by substance use and mental health struggles.
Mikaela DiGiorgio, who works with the La Plata County Public Health Department, told her story of pain, drug addiction and loss – and eventual recovery.
“I truly feel that since I decided to value myself and accept who I am now, life has brought me the most beautiful things and wonderful things,” she said. “This is my story of struggle, hope and growth, and know that if anyone is struggling with addiction and … loss, I promise you, you are not too far gone.”
Andrew Urenda, a peer supporter with Manna Soup Kitchen, speaks about his experiences with addiction Saturday at Rotary Park on Light Over Shadows Day. (Elizabeth Pond/Durango Herald)
Andrew Urenda, a peer supporter at Manna who shared his own journey with substance abuse disorder, said the event, and Light Over Shadows Day, is all about destigmatization and support.
“Back when I was growing up, it was such a stigma to be addicted to drugs,” he said. And now it seems like … we’re together in this. The more support that we can get for folks that are experiencing substance use disorder, the better.”
He said he hopes his work as a peer supporter can help others heal.
“Ultimately, that’s what I went to prison for – being an addict,” Urenda said. “And if I had had the support back then, I might not have. … Through my career now as a peer supporter, I’m able to share my experience of strength and hope so that maybe I can help folks if they’re lost, and possibly show them that recovery is possible.” “Putt
Substance abuse disorders affect over 48.5 million Americans aged 12 and over, according to the National Center for Drug Abuse Statistics.
Data from the Colorado Health Institute show more than 1.1 million Coloradans – nearly a fifth of the state’s population – are affected by addiction each year.
epond@durangoherald.com
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