CHILDHOOD TRAUMA

I began using alcohol at the age of 13 as a result of childhood sexual trauma. Not an excuse for my behavior, but more of an explanation as to what drove me towards drugs. I moved from alcohol to cocaine, to methamphetamines, to, "Hey what's that." As a result, I lost my friends, job, family, car, home, and soul to addiction. Once I became homeless I resorted to criminal behavior to support my addiction. I was so angry at the world; I would break into people's homes while they were at work just so I could eat and shower, and have a home for two hours. In 1991 my mother (God bless her) had me arrested for breaking into her home. A savvy judge realized that I was an intelligent girl, who had fallen prey to a deadly disease. Instead of prison, I was ordered into a drug treatment program named KIVA.

Based on that reality I was ordered to complete a four-month residential treatment program, remain drug free and crime free, and to comply with and complete the terms of my probation. I am pleased to say that I not only completed the four-month residential treatment program, but also completed a two-month after-care component, and a six-month transitional living program.

My treatment experience provided me with insight into the underpinnings of my addiction and allowed me to take personal responsibility for my life and behavior. I do not make excuses for what I did, nor do I deny having committed a crime. Moreover, I have dedicated my life to helping others to adapting to a life of recovery.