Assemblyman Tom McKevitt would like to share with you the importance of educating one's self about the abuses of alcohol and how addiction can be overcome to save our lives and the lives of the people we love.

April is Alcohol Awareness Month where we all need to take a step back to reevaluate our lives and the lives of the people around us. Today, about 18 million adults in America have a drinking problem and within that 18 million we can attribute more deaths and disabilities from substance abuse than from any other cause.

Alcohol abuse is a serous addiction with severe consequences including, fetal alcohol syndrome for women who drink while they are pregnant, illnesses ranging from heart disease to cancer, and an estimated loss of $276 billion per year in lost health care, crime, vehicle accidents and lost productivity.

With proper treatment, alcoholism, like many other addictions, can be overcome. There are treatment centers that can help people with addictions learn how to adjust to life in a sober manner and get their lives back on track. These facilities help people with addictions to rebuild and save their lives.

"It is important that we as citizens and community members are aware of the problems that we face today. Alcoholism may be affecting your life and you should not be afraid to get the help that you need and deserve. If a member of your family is exhibiting any signs of alcohol abuse it is important that you get them the help that they need. Addiction is a disease, however with the proper treatment and support you can stop the addiction and live a healthy sober life," McKevitt said.

"Having a loved one who is actively serving in the military is a very harsh reality for children. They may find it difficult to understand what is going on and what their family member is doing away from home. For this reason programs such as Operation Purple Summer Camps have been established to help with the emotional and psychological aspects that children may endure," McKevitt stated.

The National Military Family Association is now accepting applications for the 2008 summer months. Operation Purple Summer Camp is a free summer camp that allows children who are going through similar experiences to meet with one another, share stories, and develop bonds. This is a very unique program that helps children learn new skills and provides the support that they need during deployment.

In order to be chosen for Operation Purple Summer Camp, you must first register before May 5. There is not a first-come, first-served basis; however, children whose parent(s) have been deployed or will be deployed have first priority. All applications will be evaluated and you should hear from the camp no later then May 12 to know if your child(ren) have been accepted.

"This is a great opportunity to give back to the children and provide a place where they can share their stories and make great friends. This program is designed to help children by providing them with the proper coping skills and tools needed to understand and accept what they are going through. Help your children share in this great experience and register them before May 5. For more information visit http://www.operationpurple.org/."