Drug and alcohol addiction affects everyone.

To shed some light on personal experiences of what addiction does to a person and a family, the Carbon County Opiate Task Force is bringing a three-week series called "Hope and Reality." The program is aimed at families and friends who have been impacted by addiction.Jamie Drake, executive director for the Carbon-Monroe-Pike Drug and Alcohol Commission, announced that the program will take place April 13, 20 and 27 at the Lehighton Area High School auditorium."Every night we're trying to do a true story of what really happens, then offer suggestions and resources on how to help people," she said.Doors will open at 6 p.m. and refreshments and resources will be available until 6:30 each session.The event will start at 6:30 p.m. and will run until 8 p.m.On April 13, a parent will speak about his experience and the loss of his son, followed by professionals providing resources that are available.On April 20, a parent will speak about her own recovery and her son's addiction.On April 27, there will be speakers who tell their stories of hope, as well as a question-and-answer session.Drake said that the program is open to anyone.For food planning services, people wishing to attend the refreshment portion of the event are asked to RSVP to 610-377-5177, ext. 2105 by noon on the day of the event; otherwise no registration is needed.