National Recovery Month: Stories of Hope
September is a powerful month of reflection and celebration as we observe , a time dedicated to acknowledging the strides made in the field of addiction recovery and mental health. This annual observance, spearheaded by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), serves as a platform to honor the resilience and courage of those who have embarked on their journey to recovery. It also highlights the critical role of support systems, healthcare providers, and community resources in fostering lasting change and wellness.
In the spirit of National Recovery Month, we share stories from staff and individuals served at BHN's recovery programs as a beacon of hope for others. Together, let's celebrate the progress made and encourage continued growth and support for all individuals on the path to recovery.
Desiree Pelletier, Program Director, Opportunity House
Today, I am a woman who lives a life free from substances, but that wasn't always the case. Seven years ago, I was pregnant with twins and deeply entangled in IV drug use. I felt trapped, hopeless, and unable to envision a future for myself or my unborn Ji8¸£ÀûÊÓƵ. I didn't know recovery was possible until I was accepted into a BHN program that offered a lifeline I desperately needed.
This program was unique and allowed me to keep my newborn babies with me while I worked on my recovery. The early days were challenging. I had to confront the roots of my addiction, participate in counseling sessions, and attend groups with others who were on similar journeys. I learned coping mechanisms, the importance of self-care, and how to rebuild my life from the ground up.
As my body healed, so did my spirit. The support from the BHN staff and my peers was unwavering. They believed in me when I struggled to believe in myself. Slowly, I started to see a future where I could be the mother my twins deserved. We graduated from the program together, moving on to independent living with a newfound sense of hope and purpose.
My journey didn't end there. Inspired by the help I received, I applied to BHN to become a recovery specialist. I wanted to give back and help others who were in the same place I once was. To my joy, I was hired and began working closely with individuals battling addiction. My firsthand experience allowed me to connect deeply with those I was helping.
I continued to grow, taking on more responsibilities and eventually becoming a counselor. My passion for helping others and my dedication to the field did not go unnoticed. Today, I am the Program Director of one of BHN's Recovery Homes. Every day, I have the privilege of guiding others on their path to recovery, just as I was guided.
I cannot truly express my gratitude for BHN. This organization not only helped me learn, grow, and change my life, but it also allowed me to do the same for others. My twins are now healthy, happy, and thriving, and I am filled with pride and joy as I continue to support and inspire others on their recovery journeys.
Andrew, Opportunity House Participant
I had early signs of leaning towards alcohol addiction. A feeling of being a stranger in a strange land was always prevalent. I always felt separate from the rest of the world. With alcohol, before it destroyed everything, I felt at home and at peace on my feet. I realized I needed help only after losing my marriage, career and home due to alcohol. The first step was to admit defeat, and become a member of AA, and find a sponsor. To me, recovery is a way to find peace and fellowship, the opposite of addiction. Others in my network keep me on track, and accountable.
Jose, Opportunity House Participant
My name is Jose, and I was born & raised in Springfield, MA. My addiction started very young; I would say about 10 years old when my uncle allowed me to smoke marijuana at a basketball court. I saw my uncle as a role model and wanted to grow up to be like him.
I smoked that first joint and thought that I was cool. I felt like I had become a man. Little did I know that was the beginning of the end. Who would have thought that I would almost die twice, at the ages of 46 and 48, from a Fentanyl overdose? Twice, my heart stopped, and I almost died from overdose and homelessness. If it wasn't for BHN's Carlson Recovery Center detox, Hope Center, and now the Opportunity House program, I probably would not be sitting here writing this story. BHN, thank you for saving and turning my life around.
Jonathan, Opportunity House Participant
Every time I think about the past and all the things I have been through, I look back and look in the mirror and say thank you God, for changing my life. I put my body through abuse using drugs, heroin, and cocaine since I was 14 years old. I have struggled and suffered so much from addiction. Overdoses, almost dying a couple of times, putting my kids and family through pain. I'm done. I, Jonathan am tired of being a nobody because of the drugs. I have now been five months, clean, and feel happy.
BHN offers a path to recovery. Call 413-301-WELL to get started or learn more about BHN’s continuum of addiction and recovery programs.
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