- Alcohol
- Drugs
- Faith
- Mental Health
Start by describing the situation that changed your life or a loved one’s life
I was going through a messy divorce and a horrible custody battle for my three younger children. In the middle of that, I had a debilitating motor vehicle accident. I found I was severely allergic to opiates and anti-inflammatory drugs. The guy I had been dating suggested I try cocaine. I agreed, not knowing he was a regular user.
Based on your situation or story, was there a turning point that prompted the need for change or help?
I found myself sleeping on the streets of Miami.
How did you or your HERO get help?
I resigned to die on the streets of Miami from sunstroke. I didn’t eat or move for a few days, lying across the street from a cemetery. I was convinced this was the day my life would slip away and I was apologizing to God for the mess I had became and the pain I had caused and the waste of his temple. Then someone tapped me on the shoulder and told me of a healing mass that night a few blocks away. I got up, sure that I was being led out of the misery that my life had become. I begged for some money for food, I ate, and I sat in front of the church, not really believing. I was thinking it was all a delusion, and then they started lining up for the mass. Within a month, I was in treatment.
Based on your experience, what lessons did you learn? Do you have any advice to give?
I learned that I was not alone in what I did to myself or what I did to others while I was using. I was also not alone in how I felt about myself. I learned that I needed to be as willing to work for my recovery as I was willing to work for my drugs. I learned there was hope that I could recover and have a life. I learned that I am lovable. I have worth and I can love myself and forgive myself. I learned that my higher power never abandoned me. I learned that I never have to use again and I am still learning how to live clean, no matter what. I can only suggest that you give yourself a break, trust in the process and take others’ suggestions. It may not be easy but it is so very worth it.
If you or your loved one is in recovery, describe what life is like today.
Well, I pay my own bills and I have my own place. I went through a number of challenges, including a relationship break-up, moving, loss of jobs, injuries, surgery without painkillers, loss of a parent, having my moped stolen, spending holidays alone and having my place broken into. Through it all, I have never wound up homeless. I quit smoking cigarettes a year ago. I am able to give back in my community. I get to do service in all the places that fed me, clothed me and even bathed me. I love doing service. I am trusted today and I have integrity. I laugh in the midst of chaos. I have a life today. I have an awesome part-time job working for a paralyzed guy, and he trusts me with his debit card and his home. I have two cats and I was responsible enough to neuter and spay them and get them their shots. I once dreamt of just being able to eat a peanut butter and jelly sandwiches or of having a hot shower. I get manicures and pedicures. I care about what I eat, wear and say. I sleep in a soft bed. Today, my life is good.
Is there anything else you’d like to share?
I’d like to share that I have a relationship with two of my five adult children and my only two grandchildren. When I was using, I never thought I’d see any of them again. I remain grateful for the relationships that I do have and put the rest in the hands of my higher power.