I grew up in a household where addiction was the norm, and stability was a distant dream. My father, a hardworking man, was also an alcoholic. As a child, I idolized him—mimicking his every move, even the destructive ones. I remember the times when I would pick up cigarette butts he left behind, trying to smoke them. One day, I grabbed a container I thought was filled with liquor, only to realize, too late, it was kerosene. That near-fatal mistake should have been a wake-up call, but it was just the beginning of my struggle.

At six years old, my mother made the difficult decision to leave my brother and me with our grandmother and move to California, searching for a better life for us. But to me, it felt like abandonment. I felt unloved, lost, and unseen. My relationship with my grandmother was strained—she favored my younger brother, and I sought escape in running away, skipping school, and hopping trains.

I ran away at the age of six and was gone for three days, disconnected from the world around me. It was a moment of deep confusion, marking the start of a lifelong battle with addiction.

The Path to Recovery

Addiction didn’t just appear in my life overnight, but it took root early. Years of pain and disconnection fueled my struggle. I won’t sugarcoat it—recovery wasn’t easy, but it was possible. One day at a time, I began to rebuild. I learned that true healing isn’t just about breaking free from substances. It’s about healing the deeper wounds that fuel the addiction.

From Pain to Purpose

Today, as a Wellness Advocate, I dedicate my life to helping others facing the same battles. I know what it’s like to feel broken, but I also know that recovery is within reach for anyone who believes it’s possible. You are not alone.

My story is one of survival, but more importantly, it is a story of triumph. Every setback I faced brought me closer to understanding that healing is not just about the body—it’s about the spirit.

Take the First Step

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, remember that recovery starts with hope. Reach out, share your story, and let’s take this journey together.

What’s Next?

This is just a glimpse of my journey. If you’d like to learn more about my experiences, the lessons I’ve learned, and how I continue to heal, feel free to explore my blog or reach out to me directly. Together, we can move forward into a healthier, happier future.