Three and a half years ago, I was a shadow of the person I am today - lost, struggling with a substance use disorder, and feeling utterly alone. My life had spiraled out of control, and my children barely recognized me. I didn’t love myself, and I didn’t care for anyone else either. I was caught in a cycle of addiction, and even when I looked in the mirror, I couldn’t muster any love for the reflection staring back at me.
My turning point came when I was referred to Brighton Recovery Center for Women through Mental Health Court. I didn’t have much of a choice; I had tried other programs before, but they were never quite right for me. The judge said I needed long-term treatment, and Brighton Center was my last hope. I remember the first few days vividly. Fear and loneliness wrapped around me like a heavy cloak. I desperately wanted to leave, but I found a small reason to stay every day. I needed something to cling to. Then came the letters from the other women in the house. They would slide notes under the Safe Off the Streets dorm door, saying things like, “We love you.” Initially, I scoffed at those words. “How can they love me? They don’t even know me.” But slowly, those words began to seep into my heart. They loved me until I could learn to love myself.
What set Brighton Center apart was its dual focus on both my substance abuse and mental health. I had never had access to services that treated both issues at the same time. It was life-changing. Right from the second day, I found myself working on my mental health alongside my recovery. It was the first time I felt like I was really tackling the root of my problems instead of just the symptoms. As I progressed through the phases of the recovery program, I learned so much about myself. I remember trudging to the church for meetings, which became one of my favorite parts of the program. We were told, “You would go to any lengths to get your drugs, so now you have to be willing to do anything for your recovery.” Those treks became symbolic. They reminded me that I was capable of change.
Peer Mentoring was a huge part of my recovery. I worked in the kitchen, with CENTER TABLE, Catering With A Purpose, and that filled me with a sense of accomplishment. Every order I filled and every event I catered made me feel like I was contributing something good to the world. I learned how to show up on time and function without substances, skills I desperately needed. Today, I’m proud to say I work in the very field that helped me. I started as a Substance Use Disorder Tech and have since earned three promotions, eventually becoming a Court Liaison. It feels surreal to have come full circle, from being on the other side of the court to helping others navigate their own journeys.
My family life has transformed, too. I regained full custody of my kids, and my relationships with them have blossomed. My daughter is now in college, and I even have two grandchildren. My husband and I have built a life together filled with love and trust. I wake up every morning excited to give back what was so freely given to me. I volunteer with other alumni at events, fundraisers, and celebrations, reminding the current residents that they’re not alone. Looking ahead, my goal is to return to school and pursue a clinical degree in addiction counseling. I want to deepen my understanding of recovery and become an even greater advocate for those struggling with addiction. I have come so far, and I know that if I can change my life, anyone can. You just have to want it. To anyone hesitant to seek help, I want you to know that you deserve to be loved and love yourself. You just need to take that first step. When you’re ready, Brighton Center is there, waiting to guide you toward a brighter tomorrow.
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