My addiction first began when I was in high school. After completing high school and going to college, my parents left for Japan and I felt isolated. It was the beginning of an ongoing battle.

It started with alcohol but gradually escalated over the years. I was in an abusive relationship with my ex for over 12 years, during which my alcohol use only increased. I then turned to drugs to deal with the emotional distress.

After my oldest son was taken by CPS, I tried to get sober in order to get him back. I was in and out of rehabilitation centers. The addiction was bigger than me. I lost custody of him. I attempted suicide, but God had other plans for me. Then I gave birth to my youngest son.

One day I woke up with the clear realization that I had to leave. I couldn’t do this anymore and my son deserved better.

In 2020, I found Nexus Recovery Center. That was when my life changed for the better. My first night at Nexus, I laid in bed next to my son, knowing the doors were locked and we were safe. It was the best night’s sleep of my life. Nexus gave us safety and a place where we could both heal and recover.

Today, I serve as a recovery support peer specialist and mental health peer specialist. Guiding my clients on their path to sobriety, I've discovered my true calling in aiding others. Most importantly, I have an open and honest relationship with both of my sons that has deepened our bond and strengthened our relationship.

This Mother’s Day and beyond, I urge you to offer any support you can to Nexus Recovery Center. The funds aren't merely for aesthetics or material goods; they are saving lives. They provide a roof over someone's head and a place of safety and healing, just as they did for me. Every donation to Nexus Recovery Center represents hope for a mother in recovery.