What was your biggest takeaway as a patient at Valley Hope that has informed your recovery journey?
That life is a journey. As much trauma and struggles you have brought with you. You CAN leave them at the door. You CAN get better. You DESERVE to get better. There are people from all around the globe that are right where you are now and people that have been there and moved on. Its a choice only you can make. Develop a mantra, develop a success plan. Live it day by day. You do not have to do it alone.
What staff member most influenced your treatment stay?
RayB, Grizz and Dee were my counselors and each was special and guided me through recovery. That said, everyone there from the cafeteria folks that specially made peach cobbler for me to the janitorial folks. Everyone was kind and supportive.
What is life like today in recovery?
My life today is clear and productive. I have the love and support of my family and friends. I attend AA meetings regularly and find them very useful and comforting. They also serve as reminders of where I was and where I am now. As an individual, people comment on the difference in my demeanor and of course I look SOO much healthier. Life is always going to present us with challenges - that is a given. Its your choice how to meet those challenges. One day at a time sounds cheesy, but it’s real. It can be yours too!
What piece of advice would you share with others seeking recovery?
Wake up sober, do the work, go to sleep sober...a mantra shared by all. Face your demons, and let them go. You are worth it.
People would say things like “be in the moment” and “one day at a time” and that never made any sense to me. I can honestly say that I’ve learned how to do those things today.
In the first six months of sobriety I have restored my relationships with my family and friends, fallen in love with my sober partner, thrived in my career and gotten plugged back in with communities I enjoyed before my addiction.
My passion for reading has turned into a wonderful opportunity of reading for a network that helps others. I am now two years into my volunteer work and absolutely love it!
Recovery thrives in community. Whether you’re seeking help, supporting a loved one, or celebrating life in recovery, we’d love to connect with you. Follow our social media channels, attend an event, or simply reach out—we’re here for you 24/7 at (800) 544-5101.
