Marianna Scaff McKee
From: Longmeadow, MA
What do you do for a living?
Almost retired, with one day a week in the office of The Republican, a regional newspaper in Western Massachusetts, after 23 years as executive assistant to the executive editor in the newsroom. Prior to that I was an administrative assistant at Milton Bradley/Hasbro for 30 years.
How did you first connect with Herren Project?
In 2017, just a few weeks after we lost our CJ to an overdose, we received a card from Herren Project inviting us to consider the grief group facilitated by Rebecca. I emailed Rebecca and we talked. Charlie and I were on the next Zoom meeting. We have hardly missed a Tuesday night since. This experience has allowed us to move forward.
What is your interest in/connection to recovery?
I believe that no one should have to lose their life to addiction and overdose. Changing the stigma is one small thing I can do to promote recovery.
Who is someone who inspires you?
Truly, looking back on my son’s 18-year struggle with self-medication and the torment of school that he endured amazes me and inspires me to spread the word. He was a kind and brave individual with a horrible disease. I choose to promote his goodness.
What’s your favorite pastime or hobby?
Reading, New England sports teams plus the Buccaneers, acrylic painting, minimal flower gardening.
What are you most proud of?
Being the best mother I could be; always having my son’s back. And taking good care of his dog, Hank.
What does serving as a Herren Project Ambassador mean to you?
It means helping to spread the important and effective ways people can achieve recovery, one day at a time.
