I struggled with addiction for most of my life. There was a point when I was homeless—sleeping on benches, not showering, and only caring about my next fix to escape the pain I was carrying. I honestly thought maybe this was it for me—that I was meant to live that kind of life.
Coming to the Meridian House changed that. It gave me the chance to really face my issues and start taking my life seriously. The relapse prevention groups and coping skills groups taught me so much. I learned that recovery isn’t just about not using—it’s about working on yourself, on your character, and understanding why you picked up in the first place. What makes Meridian special is the bond you build with people. The counselors aren’t just doing a job—they truly care, they get to know you, and they help you in ways that are real.
To me, being clean means being productive, being happy, and not having the people who love me constantly worrying. After 16 months, I graduated from Meridian House. I went on to complete the trainings to become a Recovery Coach, and now I work at North Suffolk Community Services helping others who are facing the same struggles I once faced.
I’m also working on my GED through a program at Recovery on the Harbor, taught by a volunteer who’s also in recovery and gives her time to support others. Being surrounded by people who care and who believe in me has made all the difference in my life. And now, I want to be that person for someone else.
