I was a heroin and cocaine addict for 15 years. I lost my father in 2002 to an overdose, which fueled me to care even less and completely destroy what was left of my life. I spent 11 months in jail and lost many friends and had been deserted by my family. After my husband died I began to come out of the fog and after several rehabs and attempts at recovery I was able to put together a year. I found out not long after that I was pregnant with my first son, which changed my life. Not only was he born 8/26/10 but in many ways so was I. Since his birth I was blessed on 9/13/12 with a second son who is just as amazing and perfect as his brother.

I often think of what could have happened if I continued the way I was.

Since 2010 my children and I have overcome many obstacles. I recently graduated with a degree in human services and am looking to continue my education after a semester break. I have an amazing job in the field, which allows me to be supportive to others while also staying on the road to recovery myself. Simple life problems and choices that were once too much for me to handle have become routine and in some cases expected. However there are some things that can't be counted on such as losing the father of my children who was also an addict, to cancer last June. This altered our lives forever.

I have learned many things in recovery about myself and who I was vs. who I want to be. I am now a college graduate who is employable, I am a nurturing mother, a true friend, and a loved member of a family. I belong to a fellowship that always has the answers I need when I need them. The support network I have been blessed with has helped me through all of the ups and downs and I would not trade the life I have today for anything in this world.

I often think of what could have happened if I continued the way I was. These thoughts keep it real for me and it reminds me that addiction is a disease that needs to be treated one day at a time and sometimes one minute at a time. Looking back at the family members and friends whose lives were cut short by addiction makes me sad but on the bright side reminds me how grateful I am to be alive, healthy and able to help those still suffering from this deadly illness. I thank God for the blessings in my life and for my ability to recognize and appreciate even the simplest things that at one time I took for granted.

I am able to smile again and walk down the street proud of who I am and also where I came from because without that experience I may not have the life I do now.