What it was like?

I went through a lot of traumatic events in rapid succession, and didn’t know how to cope. I quickly fell in love with drugs. I hated myself, my life, and the world. It was a miserable existence. I only cared about getting high and avoiding reality. I couldn’t hold a job, I was chronically homeless, in and out of jail, and often prayed I would die. I truly believed the world would be better off without me.

What happened?

I didn’t get “better” over night. It was a lot of hard work, trial and error, and a bit of luck too. I think my turning point was when I accidentally mixed drugs and overdosed on my daughter’s birthday. I didn’t quit that day, but that’s when I started making changes and setting goals; that’s when I started reaching out and asking for help from the sober community. Most importantly, I never gave up.

What it is like now?

My life now is great. It’s far from perfect, but it is so much better than it’s ever been. I’ve earned a Bachelors Degree in Sociology, and am currently working toward a Masters in Social Work. I work in recidivism reduction, helping other people find and utilize the tools they need to be successful. I have rebuilt trust with my children, and have great relationships with all of them. I am married to an amazing man who is also In Recovery, and we have a little dog that is our world. I live in a nice house, drive a nice car, and am proud to say that I’ve had the same phone and phone number for years (if you know, you know). I live my recovery every day, because I value it, and don’t ever want to go back to how it was. It didn’t happen over night, and it’s not always been easy, but it’s been worth it.

Recent Sober Sinces

Mariahna Camacho, 18
Sober since 10 / 21 / 2023

robert martino, 35
Sober since 03 / 06 / 2023

Lisa, 44
Sober since 05 / 13 / 2016