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The Recovery Library.
A powerful collection of real stories from individuals in recovery, sharing hope, resilience, and the many paths to healing.
John Doe
About The Library
Story Archives
The Recovery Library.
The Recovery Library is a living collection of personal stories that illuminate the many paths of recovery. Created by Home of New Vision, this digital archive shares the voices of individuals in recovery, loved ones affected by addiction, and those who support the journey. These stories of resilience, struggle, and transformation highlight the strength of the recovery community while helping to reduce stigma and inspire hope. By sharing diverse perspectives, we aim to show that recovery is possible in many ways and that no one is alone in their journey.
The Recovery Library.
Embracing Change: My Path to Recovery
I am originally from Ypsilanti but moved to Belleville when I was six. I attended Belleville schools until high school, but as a troubled youth, I spent much of my teenage years caught up in "the system." I completed parts of high school in Inkster and Detroit at schools designed for adolescents with behavioral challenges. For much of my life, I was running from myself—whether through my actions or substance use. I grew up in the church and always wanted to do the right thing, but there was another side of me constantly pulling in the opposite direction. It felt like a never-ending tug-of-war in my mind, and more often than not, the side that wanted to escape won. My turning point—or what I call my breaking point—came when I could physically and emotionally feel the weight of death clinging to me. It was dark, heavy, and overwhelming. Maybe it was the dangerous situations I had been in, the violence I had endured, or the substances that could have taken my life at any moment. Maybe it was the realization that my children deserved for me to stay alive. Whatever it was, I reached a point of exhaustion, and in my desperation, I fell to my knees and knew something had to change. The journey wasn’t easy. The physical withdrawals from alcohol and the mental battle with cravings were some of the hardest things I have ever faced. But I knew I couldn’t do it alone. Checking myself into treatment was the best decision I could have ever made—it saved my life. Today, just two and a half years into recovery, my life is beyond anything I could have imagined. I have a job I love, helping others who are struggling with substance use, just as I once did. I have an incredible church family, a strong support system in Narcotics Anonymous, and the love of my actual family. I have a home, a car, and most importantly, all three of my children back in my life. I even have an adorable puppy and the most amazing friends I could ever ask for. If I could give one piece of advice to anyone struggling, it would be this: Find a higher power and build a strong support system. Create a team of people who will uplift you. I never realized how vital that was until I did it myself, and it made all the difference. Trust the process, and don’t stand in your own way. You are capable of more than you can imagine!
Jessica Slone
In Recovery Since:
09/23/2022
City, State
Belleville, MI - Ypsilanti, MI
Create a team of people who will uplift you.
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The Recovery Library.
Dennis F
Finding Strength: Dennis' Journey to Recovery
My name is Dennis, and I’m from Jackson, Michigan. For a long time, I was struggling, but I didn’t want to admit how bad things had gotten. My drinking spiraled out of control, and before I knew it, I had three DUIs. Each time, I told myself it wouldn’t happen again, but I couldn’t break the cycle on my own. I was stuck in a pattern of making the same mistakes, and it felt like my life was slipping through my fingers. Getting that third DUI was my wake-up call. It was the moment I had to be honest with myself—I needed help. I finally reached out, went through counseling, and started attending MRT (Moral Reconation Therapy) classes. At first, I wasn’t sure if anything would change, but little by little, I started to see a difference. The support from my friends and family, along with the structure of the classes, helped me stay away from alcohol. For the first time in a long time, I wasn’t fighting this battle alone. Today, my life looks completely different. I don’t wake up with hangovers, I’m present for the people who need me, and most importantly, I’m proud of myself. I’ve been sober for 16 months, and every day I remind myself why I made this choice. It wasn’t easy, but it was worth it. If I could tell anyone who’s struggling one thing, it would be this: Don’t be ashamed to reach out for help. There are people who care, who won’t judge you, and who want to see you succeed. You don’t have to do this alone.
Dennis F
In Recovery Since:
11/2023
City, State
Jackson, MI
You don’t have to do this alone.
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Kim Wiechers
Never Quit Quitting: A Journey to Redemption
I was born in Rhode Island, spent a couple of years in Lake Placid, NY, and moved to Michigan when I was 10. Hockey has been part of my life since I first stepped onto the ice at three years old, and I still play to this day. My education took an unconventional route—I was homeschooled through grade school before transitioning to college, eventually graduating from Wayne State University with a bachelor's degree in 2012. For years, I was what some would call a “functional” alcoholic. In my twenties, I kept it together, but by my thirties, alcohol became more than a habit—it became my vice. And as it always does with addiction, everything eventually came crashing down. In 2018, my world shattered when I lost my first son. The pain was unbearable, and instead of facing it, I drowned myself in alcohol. I lost everything—my relationship, my home, my job, and even the puppy we had gotten to help me cope. By 2019, I had nothing left. My drinking consumed me, and I spent most of that year and into 2020 in and out of hospitals. Suicide attempts, severe withdrawals—I was trapped in a cycle of pain, sickness, and self-destruction. Then, in September 2020, I had enough. Enough pain. Enough sickness. Enough loss. In my darkest moment, I screamed out to God: I don’t have this. I need help. And He answered. I found hope at tables, in treatment centers, in the voices of those who had walked this path before me. Slowly, I learned to stand on my own again. At first, the challenges felt impossible. But I clung to the wisdom I heard in recovery meetings: One day at a time. I shared my pain, I listened, and I healed. The biggest obstacle was myself—I had to believe there was another way, a better way. A way that led to peace, freedom, happiness, and love. Today, I am 4.5 years sober, and I am proud of the life I have built. I have the family and son I always dreamed of. I am a recovery coach, giving back what was so freely given to me. I have a job, a car, a home—things I once thought I had lost forever. But most of all, I am proud to be me. To anyone who is struggling, my message is simple: Never quit quitting. Fall down eight times, get up nine. You may not be able to go back and make a brand new start, but you can start now and create a brand new ending. Believe in the miracle. It will happen.
Kim Wiechers
In Recovery Since:
09/22/2020
City, State
Rhode Island - Ann Arbor, MI
Never quit quitting. Fall down eight times, get up nine.
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Finding Purpose: A Joruney to Recovery
I am from Pinckney, Michigan. Before recovery, my life was chaotic and centered around substance use. I started using at just 11 years old, and over time, it took over everything—my relationships, my freedom, and my sense of self. I spent years in and out of jail, disconnected from my family and friends. I used substances to numb myself, trying to escape emotions I didn’t want to face. But the truth is, I was more emotionally unstable than ever. I was lost, overwhelmed, and completely consumed by the cycle of use. My turning point came when I had the opportunity to visit my mom’s house for the first time in years. I had recently started at a medication-assisted treatment clinic, and I was given take-home doses for the weekend. While my mom and I were out grocery shopping, I left my take-home box on the kitchen counter. My 18-year-old daughter, curious, looked inside. She found my keys, opened the box, and discovered the substances I had hidden there. When I got back, she confronted me. The shame I felt in that moment was overwhelming. I had spent nearly half my life in substance use, and I realized that if I didn’t make a change, I would keep losing time—time I could never get back. I was about to turn 40, and I knew I wanted the rest of my life to have purpose. That moment was the wake-up call I needed. Recovery hasn’t been easy, but the people in my life have made all the difference. I am beyond grateful for my support system—they are my biggest cheerleaders, and I don’t know where I would be without them. One of my biggest challenges has been living with someone who is still actively using and doesn’t support my recovery. But I refuse to let that define me. I have never been this happy, and I am determined to keep pushing forward. Today, my life is completely different. I am rebuilding my relationships, and I talk to my daughters every day. I get to spend time at my mom’s house again, something I never thought would be possible. I’ve even formed a positive relationship with the woman who adopted my youngest daughter, and I spend nights at her house, feeling like part of my child’s life again. I’ve started working as a substitute at the warming center, proving to myself and others that I can be relied upon. I’m giving back to the community that once helped me, making new connections, and finding joy in the simple things—taking my dog for walks, providing for my pet, and being able to go into a store and buy something just because I want it. If I could share one message with anyone struggling, it would be this: There is always a light at the end of the tunnel. I never thought I would enjoy life again, but I wouldn’t trade this for anything. The struggles in recovery are real, but I would rather face them sober than continue in the darkness of substance use. My past shaped me, but it does not define me. And if I can find my way to a better life, so can you.
Bridget Martin
In Recovery Since:
08/27/2024
City, State
Pinckney - Ann Arbor, MI
I never thought I would enjoy life again, but I wouldn’t trade this for anything.
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The Recovery Library.
Choosing a New Path: My Recovery Journey
I grew up in a loving home with happily married parents and four younger siblings. My childhood was filled with good memories, and I always felt supported. However, when my dad passed away in 2009, it was an incredibly difficult time for me, and that loss shaped much of what followed. Someone once told me, "Your bottom is when you decide to stop digging." That stuck with me. I was fortunate that I never faced legal trouble or lost everything, but I recognized that things were only getting worse, not better. That realization was my turning point—I was tired of the cycle and knew I had to make a change. The road wasn’t without challenges. I’ve experienced deep losses, including my dog, my job, and the passing of my cousin, aunt, and boyfriend due to COVID. Those were heartbreaking moments, but staying connected to the recovery community and continuing to go to meetings helped me stay sober through it all. No matter what life threw at me, I had people who understood and supported me. Today, I have over seven years of sobriety. I own my home, care for my pets, and have a job I feel good about. Life still has rough patches, but I am proud of myself for facing them without turning back to drinking. If I could share one piece of advice with someone struggling, it would be this: Never give up on trying. I made mistakes along the way, but I kept going—and that made all the difference. Keep showing up for yourself. You are stronger than you think.
John Doe
In Recovery Since:
12/23/2017
City, State
Ann Arbor, MI - Jackson, MI
Never give up on trying.
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The Recovery Library.
Chris Rosewarne
Growing up, life was never simple. My mom had been sick for as long as I could remember, and because of that, I spent much of my childhood staying with friends. At 19, I lost her to suicide. There’s no easy way to explain what that kind of loss does to a person, especially at that age. I didn’t have the tools to process it, so I ran from it the only way I knew how. My substance use really ramped up in college. What started as a way to escape quickly became a way of life. I barely graduated, and once I left school, things spiraled fast. My life became unmanageable—burned bridges, lost opportunities, and an overwhelming sense that I had no direction. I kept telling myself I could pull it together, but deep down, I knew I couldn’t do it alone. Recovery wasn’t an overnight transformation. It was messy. It was painful. But it was also the first time I truly started to heal. I found people who understood me, who didn’t judge where I’d been, and who showed me that I was capable of more than just surviving. Over time, I built something meaningful—first, stability, then purpose. Today, I get to give back in ways I never imagined. I get to be part of a community that believes in second chances. But most importantly, I know now that my story isn’t about what I lost—it’s about what I’ve built, the people I’ve met along the way, and the life I never thought I’d get to have. Recovery gave me that chance, and for that, I’ll always be grateful.
Chris Rosewarne
In Recovery Since:
01/21/2019
City, State
Lansing, MI - Ann Arbor, MI
"My story isn’t about what I lost—it’s about what I’ve built, the people I’ve met along the way, and the life I never thought I’d get to have.
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The Recovery Library.
Journey to Clarity: How Recovery Impacted Me
I am from Detroit—a business owner, a father, a friend, and a consultant. My life was full of responsibilities, but alcohol was a constant presence in the background. I didn’t realize just how much it had control over me until everything changed in a single moment. My turning point came the night my girlfriend was in a traumatic accident. The whole day, I kept hearing the same message in my head: Don’t drink. Stay vigilant. We started the day at a baby shower where she was drinking, and tension grew between us. Later, we drove from Detroit to Ypsilanti for dinner, but her drinking led to more arguing. At one point, I even got out of the car, ready to find my own way home. But I got back in, not wanting her to drive alone. When we finally parted ways, something in me said not to let her leave. I called her back, but we still left separately. Later that night, I sat outside a liquor store, fighting the urge to drink. Minutes later, I saw the horrific accident. That moment shook me to my core and set me on my seven-month journey of sobriety. The biggest challenge I faced was not letting myself down. I had to find new ways to cope, rebuild my confidence, and learn to truly love myself. Staying committed to my goal was tough, but every day I reminded myself why I started. Today, my life is brighter than it has been in a long time. I take care of myself—I work out, eat better, and have control over my emotions. I feel stronger, both physically and mentally, and that is something I am deeply proud of. If I could share one piece of advice, it would be this: Don’t give up. Find your safe spaces, journal, and figure out why you feel the need to escape. Overcome your addiction for yourself, because you are worth it.
Mr. 313
In Recovery Since:
09/01/2024
City, State
Detroit, MI - Ypsilanti, MI
Don’t give up. Find your safe spaces, journal, and figure out why you feel the need to escape.
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The Recovery Library.
From Desperation to Purpose: My Recovery Story
I’m from New York, and my introduction to drugs and alcohol came early. I had my first drink at a family party in middle school. When I didn’t get a hangover the next day, I figured there was nothing wrong with doing it again. The first time I tried cannabis was outside the YMCA with friends, and I loved how it made me feel. Not long after, I experimented with LSD, and from that moment, I was all in. There was no turning back—at least, not until I hit rock bottom. That moment came faster than I ever expected. Just a few months into my substance use, I had a bad reaction to LSD—at school. The dean found me running in circles outside, completely out of control. She calmed me down and took me to the nurse, who called an ambulance. I woke up in the hospital, tubes up my nose, with the taste of charcoal in my throat from having my stomach pumped. It was a public disgrace. But in hindsight, it was exactly the wake-up call I needed. One of the hardest challenges was dealing with the humiliation of what I had done. I had lost the respect of my peers and mentors. At the time, I was working toward my Eagle Scout rank, but most of my troop leaders opposed my advancement. Only one supported me. My parents fought to give me a fair chance, arranging a board of review with local business leaders instead. I became an Eagle Scout in 1996, but controversy surrounded it. I wasn’t really doing it for myself—I was just holding on, trying to move forward for my parents. My focus had already shifted toward college and the future. Today, I’m a husband and a father to two incredible kids who make me proud every single day. I work in the community, fighting stigma and addiction. Looking back, I realize I was never supposed to be the “druggie” my parents warned me about. I was a good kid. But addiction doesn’t care about that. It seduces you, pulling you in one small step at a time. For me, it started with wanting someone to like me. That was all it took—a suggestion from a girl I wanted to impress, and suddenly I was trying anything. That’s why I tell people: drugs and alcohol can happen to anyone. If you’re struggling, I want you to do something: Find a picture of yourself as a child. Look at it. Would you ever hand that child drugs? Would you tell them they weren’t worth more than this? Addiction makes you doubt the person staring back at you in the mirror. But you are better than what drugs do to you. No one wins with drugs in the long run. If you’re tired of not trusting the person in the mirror, pray for a little G.O.D.—the gift of desperation. That’s what saved me. When I hit rock bottom, God stepped in. He took my compulsion away. And I know He can do the same for you. Because it’s at the end of yourself—that’s where life truly begins.
Jonathan Glass
In Recovery Since:
10/10/2012
City, State
New York, NY - Ann Arbor, MI
G.O.D.—the gift of desperation. That’s what saved me.
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The Recovery Library.
Your Path: From Chris O
I grew up in Dearborn, MI, raised by two teachers who divorced when I was in junior high. I’ve been a drummer and percussionist since third grade. Before recovery, I spent about ten years working in bars and restaurants. My drinking escalated to a fifth of liquor daily, leading to my third DUI and an attempt to take my own life while in jail. After detoxing at home and isolating for days, I found my way to a local sobriety club and began attending AA meetings, despite struggling with aspects of the program. Outpatient therapy became an important part of my recovery journey. As a secular individual, I found it challenging to connect with traditional 12-step programs, but I didn’t give up. Months into sobriety, depression and unemployment made life difficult, and I had to move back home. With the support of my family, friends, and a late-night AA group with open-minded members, I began to rebuild. Later, I reconnected with SMART Recovery and Recovery Dharma, and continued therapy. Today, I am proud to be a peer recovery coach, a public speaker, a sober semi-pro musician, and a recovery advocate. I promote multiple pathways to recovery because I believe that every journey should be individualized. I have a wonderful wife, my own home, and the privilege of supporting my mother, which is one of my proudest accomplishments. Message to Others: There’s more than one way to recover from substance use disorder. Whether it’s 12 steps, SMART Recovery, meditation, clinical support, medication assistance, fitness, music, gardening—your path is yours to choose and should be customized to fit you.
Chris O
In Recovery Since:
10/06/2008
City, State
Dearborn, MI
There’s more than one way to recover from substance use disorder.
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Kayla Jones' Recovery Story
I’m from Ypsilanti, MI. I suffered under the chains of addiction for five years before finally deciding enough was enough—I needed to fight for myself. I attended many meetings, including NA, AA, and Celebrate Recovery. It was in one of those meetings that Jesus found me and started putting the pieces back together. I started my recovery journey while homeless, scavenging for change to pay for a hotel room and praying we had enough for some noodles that day. Today, after three years sober, I have a stable job, a nice home, an amazing bond with my daughter, and a peace and hope I’ve never known. One day, my daughter asked me why I was so mean when I drank, comparing me to "Winnie the Pooh with no honey." That moment showed me she deserved better—and eventually, I realized I deserved better too. I started getting sober for her, but I’ve stayed sober for myself. Financial hardship, job loss, and lack of resources were huge barriers. I overcame them by gathering and maintaining recovery capital, building support networks with other recovering addicts, and holding myself accountable through meetings and transparency. Today, I am proud of my strength in recovery. My drive to be better each day and make an impact never stops. I’ve become a better parent, friend, person, and supporter for others. My life is not perfect, but I find peace in the chaos and a joy that doesn’t always make sense. Message to Others: Sometimes it’s one day at a time. Other times, it’s one hour or one minute at a time. Just keep going. If you feel like you can’t do it—remember, you are not alone! Many of us have faced this journey afraid, hurting, and hesitant. It gets better. You can heal, and you will! Encouragement: I encourage all of those in recovery to share your story. There is strength in your weakness—you never know who needs to hear your story and find hope. Keep what you have by giving it away!
Kayla Jones
In Recovery Since:
03/10/2022
City, State
Ypsilanti, MI
If you feel like you can’t do it—remember, you are not alone!
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The Recovery Library.
Was A Dead Man Walking: Marcus Pollard's Recovery Story
I am from the south side of Ypsilanti. My low point in life didn’t have a look—it was just dark. I didn’t know if I was going to live, die, or be locked up for the rest of my life. After 30 years of addiction, I decided to check myself into a treatment program. I surrendered fully, willing and able to do what it took. Thanks to Home of New Vision and Spera, I got the help I needed. Today, I work in the recovery field as a Certified Peer Recovery Coach. Because of that decision and the support I received, I can finally see the light at the end of the tunnel. Turning Point: I lost everything—my responsible thinking, my values, my relationships, my peace, my soul, my children, my family, my dignity, and my life. That was my wake-up call. Challenges: I challenged death daily, walking around not caring about anything or anyone—just a dead man walking. Where I Am Today: My life is now full of joy, peace, and understanding, thanks to my new path as a Peer Recovery Coach at Home of New Vision. Message to Others: If you are still sick and suffering, I urge you: fight the monster within you—the one you’ve created. Encouragement: If you’ve always been a fighter, today is a great day to start fighting that monster inside. Start today, and I promise—you will see the light at the end of the tunnel.
Marcus Pollard
In Recovery Since:
10/22/2022
City, State
Ypsilanti, MI
...Today is a great day to start fighting that monster inside.
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The Recovery Library.
Unlocking A Mindset: Keep Coming Back
I’ve been a lifelong Michigan resident and grew up in this area, in a family affected by alcohol use disorder—on both sides. It was part of the environment I lived in growing up. Before learning about recovery, I spent a lot of time constantly worrying about my family members and their health. Getting a job in the field of recovery changed my perspective. It showed me that recovery is real—and possible. Turning Point: My turning point came when a friend asked me if I wanted to go to an Al-Anon meeting with her. I said yes. I started attending a Wednesday night meeting, then gradually added a few more in different places. I also found out about phone meetings and had a couple different sponsors over the first few years. Being around recovery, both personally and professionally, has helped me grow. I’ve seen firsthand how people’s lives improve—friends, coworkers, and the individuals we serve at my job. Challenges & Resilience: The program helped me through a lot—mental health challenges, personal loss, and the isolation of COVID. Right now, it’s helping me again as I navigate current uncertainties in the world. I’m grateful that it’s always there, and that I can adjust how often I attend meetings depending on my needs. Where I Am Today: Life is good. I no longer carry the same burden of worry about family members who are not in recovery. I can go to family gatherings and just enjoy myself—have fun without the stress. I’ve also had the opportunity to advocate for recovery in a variety of settings, and I’ve found that I love attending recovery conventions like March Roundup or the State Convention. I try to go to a couple each year. Message to Others: Keep coming back. It really does get better if you just keep coming back.
Angela
In Recovery Since:
N/A - Recovery Ally
City, State
Ann Arbor, MI
Keep coming back. It really does get better if you just keep coming back.
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The Recovery Library.
From Slave to Free: A Story by Melinda
I’m from Petoskey, Michigan, though before recovery, life took me all over the United States. I was constantly on the run—from people, from places, but mostly from myself. At my lowest, I was living in a drug-infested motel in Louisiana, working seven days a week just to pay for my room. I was trapped in every way imaginable—enslaved to my job, my partner, the drugs, and the way I used them. That was the lens I saw the world through: total entrapment. Turning Point: Eventually, dying seemed more appealing than living. I became actively suicidal and could no longer think my way out of the pain. One day, something inside me snapped—I couldn’t spend even one more moment living that way. That day, I took a leap of faith. I had no plan, no ticket, and no guarantee. But I trusted God. Three days later, I was back in Michigan. Challenges & Triumphs: Homelessness has been one of my biggest challenges in early recovery. There were times when recovery housing was available, but I wasn’t quite ready to manage the structure. But I’ve also experienced incredible triumphs—growth, healing, and a complete renewal of my mind, body, and soul. Today, I am a faithful follower of Jesus Christ. I walk into every facet of recovery with a willingness to serve, learn, and grow. Life still brings challenges, but now life also has purpose and meaning. What Recovery Means to Me: Recovery saved my life. It restored my ability to move forward. It’s not easy—but it’s worth every mountain and valley we walk through.
Melinda
In Recovery Since:
12/29/2022
City, State
Petsoky, MI
It’s not easy—but it’s worth every mountain and valley we walk through.
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Why Should You Invest in Recovery?
National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2020). Preventing drug misuse among youth: A guide for parents, educators, and community leaders (3rd ed.). National Institutes of Health. https://nida.nih.gov/sites/default/files/podat-3rdEd-508.pdf
Every dollar invested in addiction treatment programs yields a return of between $4 and $7 in reduced drug-related crime, criminal justice costs, and theft. When savings related to healthcare are included, total savings can exceed costs by a ratio of 12 to 1. Major savings to the individual and society also stem from fewer negative factors (National Institute on Drug Abuse [NIDA], 2020, p. 11).
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We all subscribe to things that entertain us—Netflix, Hulu, Audible—
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The Recovery Library.
A powerful collection of real stories from individuals in recovery, sharing hope, resilience, and the many paths to healing.
John Doe
About The Library
Story Archives
The Recovery Library.
The Recovery Library is a living collection of personal stories that illuminate the many paths of recovery. Created by Home of New Vision, this digital archive shares the voices of individuals in recovery, loved ones affected by addiction, and those who support the journey. These stories of resilience, struggle, and transformation highlight the strength of the recovery community while helping to reduce stigma and inspire hope. By sharing diverse perspectives, we aim to show that recovery is possible in many ways and that no one is alone in their journey.
The Recovery Library.
Embracing Change: My Path to Recovery
I am originally from Ypsilanti but moved to Belleville when I was six. I attended Belleville schools until high school, but as a troubled youth, I spent much of my teenage years caught up in "the system." I completed parts of high school in Inkster and Detroit at schools designed for adolescents with behavioral challenges. For much of my life, I was running from myself—whether through my actions or substance use. I grew up in the church and always wanted to do the right thing, but there was another side of me constantly pulling in the opposite direction. It felt like a never-ending tug-of-war in my mind, and more often than not, the side that wanted to escape won. My turning point—or what I call my breaking point—came when I could physically and emotionally feel the weight of death clinging to me. It was dark, heavy, and overwhelming. Maybe it was the dangerous situations I had been in, the violence I had endured, or the substances that could have taken my life at any moment. Maybe it was the realization that my children deserved for me to stay alive. Whatever it was, I reached a point of exhaustion, and in my desperation, I fell to my knees and knew something had to change. The journey wasn’t easy. The physical withdrawals from alcohol and the mental battle with cravings were some of the hardest things I have ever faced. But I knew I couldn’t do it alone. Checking myself into treatment was the best decision I could have ever made—it saved my life. Today, just two and a half years into recovery, my life is beyond anything I could have imagined. I have a job I love, helping others who are struggling with substance use, just as I once did. I have an incredible church family, a strong support system in Narcotics Anonymous, and the love of my actual family. I have a home, a car, and most importantly, all three of my children back in my life. I even have an adorable puppy and the most amazing friends I could ever ask for. If I could give one piece of advice to anyone struggling, it would be this: Find a higher power and build a strong support system. Create a team of people who will uplift you. I never realized how vital that was until I did it myself, and it made all the difference. Trust the process, and don’t stand in your own way. You are capable of more than you can imagine!
Jessica Slone
In Recovery Since:
09/23/2022
City, State
Belleville, MI - Ypsilanti, MI
Create a team of people who will uplift you.
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The Recovery Library.
Dennis F
Finding Strength: Dennis' Journey to Recovery
My name is Dennis, and I’m from Jackson, Michigan. For a long time, I was struggling, but I didn’t want to admit how bad things had gotten. My drinking spiraled out of control, and before I knew it, I had three DUIs. Each time, I told myself it wouldn’t happen again, but I couldn’t break the cycle on my own. I was stuck in a pattern of making the same mistakes, and it felt like my life was slipping through my fingers. Getting that third DUI was my wake-up call. It was the moment I had to be honest with myself—I needed help. I finally reached out, went through counseling, and started attending MRT (Moral Reconation Therapy) classes. At first, I wasn’t sure if anything would change, but little by little, I started to see a difference. The support from my friends and family, along with the structure of the classes, helped me stay away from alcohol. For the first time in a long time, I wasn’t fighting this battle alone. Today, my life looks completely different. I don’t wake up with hangovers, I’m present for the people who need me, and most importantly, I’m proud of myself. I’ve been sober for 16 months, and every day I remind myself why I made this choice. It wasn’t easy, but it was worth it. If I could tell anyone who’s struggling one thing, it would be this: Don’t be ashamed to reach out for help. There are people who care, who won’t judge you, and who want to see you succeed. You don’t have to do this alone.
Dennis F
In Recovery Since:
11/2023
City, State
Jackson, MI
You don’t have to do this alone.
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The Recovery Library.
Kim Wiechers
Never Quit Quitting: A Journey to Redemption
I was born in Rhode Island, spent a couple of years in Lake Placid, NY, and moved to Michigan when I was 10. Hockey has been part of my life since I first stepped onto the ice at three years old, and I still play to this day. My education took an unconventional route—I was homeschooled through grade school before transitioning to college, eventually graduating from Wayne State University with a bachelor's degree in 2012. For years, I was what some would call a “functional” alcoholic. In my twenties, I kept it together, but by my thirties, alcohol became more than a habit—it became my vice. And as it always does with addiction, everything eventually came crashing down. In 2018, my world shattered when I lost my first son. The pain was unbearable, and instead of facing it, I drowned myself in alcohol. I lost everything—my relationship, my home, my job, and even the puppy we had gotten to help me cope. By 2019, I had nothing left. My drinking consumed me, and I spent most of that year and into 2020 in and out of hospitals. Suicide attempts, severe withdrawals—I was trapped in a cycle of pain, sickness, and self-destruction. Then, in September 2020, I had enough. Enough pain. Enough sickness. Enough loss. In my darkest moment, I screamed out to God: I don’t have this. I need help. And He answered. I found hope at tables, in treatment centers, in the voices of those who had walked this path before me. Slowly, I learned to stand on my own again. At first, the challenges felt impossible. But I clung to the wisdom I heard in recovery meetings: One day at a time. I shared my pain, I listened, and I healed. The biggest obstacle was myself—I had to believe there was another way, a better way. A way that led to peace, freedom, happiness, and love. Today, I am 4.5 years sober, and I am proud of the life I have built. I have the family and son I always dreamed of. I am a recovery coach, giving back what was so freely given to me. I have a job, a car, a home—things I once thought I had lost forever. But most of all, I am proud to be me. To anyone who is struggling, my message is simple: Never quit quitting. Fall down eight times, get up nine. You may not be able to go back and make a brand new start, but you can start now and create a brand new ending. Believe in the miracle. It will happen.
Kim Wiechers
In Recovery Since:
09/22/2020
City, State
Rhode Island - Ann Arbor, MI
Never quit quitting. Fall down eight times, get up nine.
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The Recovery Library.
Finding Purpose: A Joruney to Recovery
I am from Pinckney, Michigan. Before recovery, my life was chaotic and centered around substance use. I started using at just 11 years old, and over time, it took over everything—my relationships, my freedom, and my sense of self. I spent years in and out of jail, disconnected from my family and friends. I used substances to numb myself, trying to escape emotions I didn’t want to face. But the truth is, I was more emotionally unstable than ever. I was lost, overwhelmed, and completely consumed by the cycle of use. My turning point came when I had the opportunity to visit my mom’s house for the first time in years. I had recently started at a medication-assisted treatment clinic, and I was given take-home doses for the weekend. While my mom and I were out grocery shopping, I left my take-home box on the kitchen counter. My 18-year-old daughter, curious, looked inside. She found my keys, opened the box, and discovered the substances I had hidden there. When I got back, she confronted me. The shame I felt in that moment was overwhelming. I had spent nearly half my life in substance use, and I realized that if I didn’t make a change, I would keep losing time—time I could never get back. I was about to turn 40, and I knew I wanted the rest of my life to have purpose. That moment was the wake-up call I needed. Recovery hasn’t been easy, but the people in my life have made all the difference. I am beyond grateful for my support system—they are my biggest cheerleaders, and I don’t know where I would be without them. One of my biggest challenges has been living with someone who is still actively using and doesn’t support my recovery. But I refuse to let that define me. I have never been this happy, and I am determined to keep pushing forward. Today, my life is completely different. I am rebuilding my relationships, and I talk to my daughters every day. I get to spend time at my mom’s house again, something I never thought would be possible. I’ve even formed a positive relationship with the woman who adopted my youngest daughter, and I spend nights at her house, feeling like part of my child’s life again. I’ve started working as a substitute at the warming center, proving to myself and others that I can be relied upon. I’m giving back to the community that once helped me, making new connections, and finding joy in the simple things—taking my dog for walks, providing for my pet, and being able to go into a store and buy something just because I want it. If I could share one message with anyone struggling, it would be this: There is always a light at the end of the tunnel. I never thought I would enjoy life again, but I wouldn’t trade this for anything. The struggles in recovery are real, but I would rather face them sober than continue in the darkness of substance use. My past shaped me, but it does not define me. And if I can find my way to a better life, so can you.
Bridget Martin
In Recovery Since:
08/27/2024
City, State
Pinckney - Ann Arbor, MI
I never thought I would enjoy life again, but I wouldn’t trade this for anything.
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The Recovery Library.
Choosing a New Path: My Recovery Journey
I grew up in a loving home with happily married parents and four younger siblings. My childhood was filled with good memories, and I always felt supported. However, when my dad passed away in 2009, it was an incredibly difficult time for me, and that loss shaped much of what followed. Someone once told me, "Your bottom is when you decide to stop digging." That stuck with me. I was fortunate that I never faced legal trouble or lost everything, but I recognized that things were only getting worse, not better. That realization was my turning point—I was tired of the cycle and knew I had to make a change. The road wasn’t without challenges. I’ve experienced deep losses, including my dog, my job, and the passing of my cousin, aunt, and boyfriend due to COVID. Those were heartbreaking moments, but staying connected to the recovery community and continuing to go to meetings helped me stay sober through it all. No matter what life threw at me, I had people who understood and supported me. Today, I have over seven years of sobriety. I own my home, care for my pets, and have a job I feel good about. Life still has rough patches, but I am proud of myself for facing them without turning back to drinking. If I could share one piece of advice with someone struggling, it would be this: Never give up on trying. I made mistakes along the way, but I kept going—and that made all the difference. Keep showing up for yourself. You are stronger than you think.
John Doe
In Recovery Since:
12/23/2017
City, State
Ann Arbor, MI - Jackson, MI
Never give up on trying.
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The Recovery Library.
Chris Rosewarne
Growing up, life was never simple. My mom had been sick for as long as I could remember, and because of that, I spent much of my childhood staying with friends. At 19, I lost her to suicide. There’s no easy way to explain what that kind of loss does to a person, especially at that age. I didn’t have the tools to process it, so I ran from it the only way I knew how. My substance use really ramped up in college. What started as a way to escape quickly became a way of life. I barely graduated, and once I left school, things spiraled fast. My life became unmanageable—burned bridges, lost opportunities, and an overwhelming sense that I had no direction. I kept telling myself I could pull it together, but deep down, I knew I couldn’t do it alone. Recovery wasn’t an overnight transformation. It was messy. It was painful. But it was also the first time I truly started to heal. I found people who understood me, who didn’t judge where I’d been, and who showed me that I was capable of more than just surviving. Over time, I built something meaningful—first, stability, then purpose. Today, I get to give back in ways I never imagined. I get to be part of a community that believes in second chances. But most importantly, I know now that my story isn’t about what I lost—it’s about what I’ve built, the people I’ve met along the way, and the life I never thought I’d get to have. Recovery gave me that chance, and for that, I’ll always be grateful.
Chris Rosewarne
In Recovery Since:
01/21/2019
City, State
Lansing, MI - Ann Arbor, MI
"My story isn’t about what I lost—it’s about what I’ve built, the people I’ve met along the way, and the life I never thought I’d get to have.
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The Recovery Library.
Journey to Clarity: How Recovery Impacted Me
I am from Detroit—a business owner, a father, a friend, and a consultant. My life was full of responsibilities, but alcohol was a constant presence in the background. I didn’t realize just how much it had control over me until everything changed in a single moment. My turning point came the night my girlfriend was in a traumatic accident. The whole day, I kept hearing the same message in my head: Don’t drink. Stay vigilant. We started the day at a baby shower where she was drinking, and tension grew between us. Later, we drove from Detroit to Ypsilanti for dinner, but her drinking led to more arguing. At one point, I even got out of the car, ready to find my own way home. But I got back in, not wanting her to drive alone. When we finally parted ways, something in me said not to let her leave. I called her back, but we still left separately. Later that night, I sat outside a liquor store, fighting the urge to drink. Minutes later, I saw the horrific accident. That moment shook me to my core and set me on my seven-month journey of sobriety. The biggest challenge I faced was not letting myself down. I had to find new ways to cope, rebuild my confidence, and learn to truly love myself. Staying committed to my goal was tough, but every day I reminded myself why I started. Today, my life is brighter than it has been in a long time. I take care of myself—I work out, eat better, and have control over my emotions. I feel stronger, both physically and mentally, and that is something I am deeply proud of. If I could share one piece of advice, it would be this: Don’t give up. Find your safe spaces, journal, and figure out why you feel the need to escape. Overcome your addiction for yourself, because you are worth it.
Mr. 313
In Recovery Since:
09/01/2024
City, State
Detroit, MI - Ypsilanti, MI
Don’t give up. Find your safe spaces, journal, and figure out why you feel the need to escape.
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The Recovery Library.
From Desperation to Purpose: My Recovery Story
I’m from New York, and my introduction to drugs and alcohol came early. I had my first drink at a family party in middle school. When I didn’t get a hangover the next day, I figured there was nothing wrong with doing it again. The first time I tried cannabis was outside the YMCA with friends, and I loved how it made me feel. Not long after, I experimented with LSD, and from that moment, I was all in. There was no turning back—at least, not until I hit rock bottom. That moment came faster than I ever expected. Just a few months into my substance use, I had a bad reaction to LSD—at school. The dean found me running in circles outside, completely out of control. She calmed me down and took me to the nurse, who called an ambulance. I woke up in the hospital, tubes up my nose, with the taste of charcoal in my throat from having my stomach pumped. It was a public disgrace. But in hindsight, it was exactly the wake-up call I needed. One of the hardest challenges was dealing with the humiliation of what I had done. I had lost the respect of my peers and mentors. At the time, I was working toward my Eagle Scout rank, but most of my troop leaders opposed my advancement. Only one supported me. My parents fought to give me a fair chance, arranging a board of review with local business leaders instead. I became an Eagle Scout in 1996, but controversy surrounded it. I wasn’t really doing it for myself—I was just holding on, trying to move forward for my parents. My focus had already shifted toward college and the future. Today, I’m a husband and a father to two incredible kids who make me proud every single day. I work in the community, fighting stigma and addiction. Looking back, I realize I was never supposed to be the “druggie” my parents warned me about. I was a good kid. But addiction doesn’t care about that. It seduces you, pulling you in one small step at a time. For me, it started with wanting someone to like me. That was all it took—a suggestion from a girl I wanted to impress, and suddenly I was trying anything. That’s why I tell people: drugs and alcohol can happen to anyone. If you’re struggling, I want you to do something: Find a picture of yourself as a child. Look at it. Would you ever hand that child drugs? Would you tell them they weren’t worth more than this? Addiction makes you doubt the person staring back at you in the mirror. But you are better than what drugs do to you. No one wins with drugs in the long run. If you’re tired of not trusting the person in the mirror, pray for a little G.O.D.—the gift of desperation. That’s what saved me. When I hit rock bottom, God stepped in. He took my compulsion away. And I know He can do the same for you. Because it’s at the end of yourself—that’s where life truly begins.
Jonathan Glass
In Recovery Since:
10/10/2012
City, State
New York, NY - Ann Arbor, MI
G.O.D.—the gift of desperation. That’s what saved me.
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The Recovery Library.
Your Path: From Chris O
I grew up in Dearborn, MI, raised by two teachers who divorced when I was in junior high. I’ve been a drummer and percussionist since third grade. Before recovery, I spent about ten years working in bars and restaurants. My drinking escalated to a fifth of liquor daily, leading to my third DUI and an attempt to take my own life while in jail. After detoxing at home and isolating for days, I found my way to a local sobriety club and began attending AA meetings, despite struggling with aspects of the program. Outpatient therapy became an important part of my recovery journey. As a secular individual, I found it challenging to connect with traditional 12-step programs, but I didn’t give up. Months into sobriety, depression and unemployment made life difficult, and I had to move back home. With the support of my family, friends, and a late-night AA group with open-minded members, I began to rebuild. Later, I reconnected with SMART Recovery and Recovery Dharma, and continued therapy. Today, I am proud to be a peer recovery coach, a public speaker, a sober semi-pro musician, and a recovery advocate. I promote multiple pathways to recovery because I believe that every journey should be individualized. I have a wonderful wife, my own home, and the privilege of supporting my mother, which is one of my proudest accomplishments. Message to Others: There’s more than one way to recover from substance use disorder. Whether it’s 12 steps, SMART Recovery, meditation, clinical support, medication assistance, fitness, music, gardening—your path is yours to choose and should be customized to fit you.
Chris O
In Recovery Since:
10/06/2008
City, State
Dearborn, MI
There’s more than one way to recover from substance use disorder.
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The Recovery Library.
Kayla Jones' Recovery Story
I’m from Ypsilanti, MI. I suffered under the chains of addiction for five years before finally deciding enough was enough—I needed to fight for myself. I attended many meetings, including NA, AA, and Celebrate Recovery. It was in one of those meetings that Jesus found me and started putting the pieces back together. I started my recovery journey while homeless, scavenging for change to pay for a hotel room and praying we had enough for some noodles that day. Today, after three years sober, I have a stable job, a nice home, an amazing bond with my daughter, and a peace and hope I’ve never known. One day, my daughter asked me why I was so mean when I drank, comparing me to "Winnie the Pooh with no honey." That moment showed me she deserved better—and eventually, I realized I deserved better too. I started getting sober for her, but I’ve stayed sober for myself. Financial hardship, job loss, and lack of resources were huge barriers. I overcame them by gathering and maintaining recovery capital, building support networks with other recovering addicts, and holding myself accountable through meetings and transparency. Today, I am proud of my strength in recovery. My drive to be better each day and make an impact never stops. I’ve become a better parent, friend, person, and supporter for others. My life is not perfect, but I find peace in the chaos and a joy that doesn’t always make sense. Message to Others: Sometimes it’s one day at a time. Other times, it’s one hour or one minute at a time. Just keep going. If you feel like you can’t do it—remember, you are not alone! Many of us have faced this journey afraid, hurting, and hesitant. It gets better. You can heal, and you will! Encouragement: I encourage all of those in recovery to share your story. There is strength in your weakness—you never know who needs to hear your story and find hope. Keep what you have by giving it away!
Kayla Jones
In Recovery Since:
03/10/2022
City, State
Ypsilanti, MI
If you feel like you can’t do it—remember, you are not alone!
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The Recovery Library.
Was A Dead Man Walking: Marcus Pollard's Recovery Story
I am from the south side of Ypsilanti. My low point in life didn’t have a look—it was just dark. I didn’t know if I was going to live, die, or be locked up for the rest of my life. After 30 years of addiction, I decided to check myself into a treatment program. I surrendered fully, willing and able to do what it took. Thanks to Home of New Vision and Spera, I got the help I needed. Today, I work in the recovery field as a Certified Peer Recovery Coach. Because of that decision and the support I received, I can finally see the light at the end of the tunnel. Turning Point: I lost everything—my responsible thinking, my values, my relationships, my peace, my soul, my children, my family, my dignity, and my life. That was my wake-up call. Challenges: I challenged death daily, walking around not caring about anything or anyone—just a dead man walking. Where I Am Today: My life is now full of joy, peace, and understanding, thanks to my new path as a Peer Recovery Coach at Home of New Vision. Message to Others: If you are still sick and suffering, I urge you: fight the monster within you—the one you’ve created. Encouragement: If you’ve always been a fighter, today is a great day to start fighting that monster inside. Start today, and I promise—you will see the light at the end of the tunnel.
Marcus Pollard
In Recovery Since:
10/22/2022
City, State
Ypsilanti, MI
...Today is a great day to start fighting that monster inside.
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The Recovery Library.
Unlocking A Mindset: Keep Coming Back
I’ve been a lifelong Michigan resident and grew up in this area, in a family affected by alcohol use disorder—on both sides. It was part of the environment I lived in growing up. Before learning about recovery, I spent a lot of time constantly worrying about my family members and their health. Getting a job in the field of recovery changed my perspective. It showed me that recovery is real—and possible. Turning Point: My turning point came when a friend asked me if I wanted to go to an Al-Anon meeting with her. I said yes. I started attending a Wednesday night meeting, then gradually added a few more in different places. I also found out about phone meetings and had a couple different sponsors over the first few years. Being around recovery, both personally and professionally, has helped me grow. I’ve seen firsthand how people’s lives improve—friends, coworkers, and the individuals we serve at my job. Challenges & Resilience: The program helped me through a lot—mental health challenges, personal loss, and the isolation of COVID. Right now, it’s helping me again as I navigate current uncertainties in the world. I’m grateful that it’s always there, and that I can adjust how often I attend meetings depending on my needs. Where I Am Today: Life is good. I no longer carry the same burden of worry about family members who are not in recovery. I can go to family gatherings and just enjoy myself—have fun without the stress. I’ve also had the opportunity to advocate for recovery in a variety of settings, and I’ve found that I love attending recovery conventions like March Roundup or the State Convention. I try to go to a couple each year. Message to Others: Keep coming back. It really does get better if you just keep coming back.
Angela
In Recovery Since:
N/A - Recovery Ally
City, State
Ann Arbor, MI
Keep coming back. It really does get better if you just keep coming back.
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The Recovery Library.
From Slave to Free: A Story by Melinda
I’m from Petoskey, Michigan, though before recovery, life took me all over the United States. I was constantly on the run—from people, from places, but mostly from myself. At my lowest, I was living in a drug-infested motel in Louisiana, working seven days a week just to pay for my room. I was trapped in every way imaginable—enslaved to my job, my partner, the drugs, and the way I used them. That was the lens I saw the world through: total entrapment. Turning Point: Eventually, dying seemed more appealing than living. I became actively suicidal and could no longer think my way out of the pain. One day, something inside me snapped—I couldn’t spend even one more moment living that way. That day, I took a leap of faith. I had no plan, no ticket, and no guarantee. But I trusted God. Three days later, I was back in Michigan. Challenges & Triumphs: Homelessness has been one of my biggest challenges in early recovery. There were times when recovery housing was available, but I wasn’t quite ready to manage the structure. But I’ve also experienced incredible triumphs—growth, healing, and a complete renewal of my mind, body, and soul. Today, I am a faithful follower of Jesus Christ. I walk into every facet of recovery with a willingness to serve, learn, and grow. Life still brings challenges, but now life also has purpose and meaning. What Recovery Means to Me: Recovery saved my life. It restored my ability to move forward. It’s not easy—but it’s worth every mountain and valley we walk through.
Melinda
In Recovery Since:
12/29/2022
City, State
Petsoky, MI
It’s not easy—but it’s worth every mountain and valley we walk through.
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The Recovery Library
Why Should You Invest in Recovery?
National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2020). Preventing drug misuse among youth: A guide for parents, educators, and community leaders (3rd ed.). National Institutes of Health. https://nida.nih.gov/sites/default/files/podat-3rdEd-508.pdf
Every dollar invested in addiction treatment programs yields a return of between $4 and $7 in reduced drug-related crime, criminal justice costs, and theft. When savings related to healthcare are included, total savings can exceed costs by a ratio of 12 to 1. Major savings to the individual and society also stem from fewer negative factors (National Institute on Drug Abuse [NIDA], 2020, p. 11).
Or maybe just the kindness of your heart?
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