OPIOID ADDICTION
&
LIVING WITH RECOVERY
I hope to shine a little light on
the experience of folks living in a state of
Recovery and Rediscovery.
They share their stories & testimonials!
So please take a scroll with me.
The following sections form a quilt or collage or collection of brief stories and testimonials of anonymous, except for initials, folks who have taken the plunge into the pleasant waters of relief from the control that Opioid Addiction had over their lives.
They now give themselves the best chance of survival in the difficult times that we are experiencing.
They hope that what they have to share will be a source of inspiration and encouragement for others who are joined in the struggle or are thinking about joining.
I started my journey with New Life due to 30+ years of back issues and being on pain pills for most of that time. I knew it was getting bad when I would take more than I needed and would run out, resulting in horrible withdrawal symptoms and the urgency to get more pills until I got my refill. The withdrawals were bad enough, but the amount of money I spent on buying pills on the street could have bought me a beautiful new house.
I found out about New Life (then it was ARS) when I was in a pharmacy getting a script filled for my pain pills, and I ended up talking to a guy who was waiting for them as well. During our conversation, he mentioned a clinic where I could get Suboxone so that I could take that instead of the pills, and I wouldn’t have to worry about going into withdrawal. He gave me the phone number, and I called that day. Surprisingly, they got me in for an appointment that week, and that was the end of pain pills for me.
During the time of taking all of the pills, I started not being able to breathe well, and my doctor gave me a Nebulizer to use, which I had to use twice a day just to be able to catch my breath, as he thought I had COPD. Using that and rescue inhalers was my new “norm”.
After not being on the pain pills for a while, I realized that I wasn’t in as much pain as I always thought I was, and the pills were actually causing me to be in MORE pain. Also surprisingly, the Suboxone took the edge off some of my pain, so I was able to function without taking a handful of pills every day. I also realized I was able to breath freely, and didn’t need the inhalers or the Nebulizer, so the pills were the cause of not being able to breathe well – NOT COPD.
Without getting that phone number from the guy I met in that pharmacy, I would probably still be addicted to pain pills and would not have the wonderful life I have right now. I am so thankful to him and for being at the right place at the right time. But I am truly thankful to DV and WC for letting me be able to live my best life every day and not to have to worry about going into withdrawals anymore. New Life truly Saved My Life, and I am forever grateful.
D M
I am an ordinary girl with a not ordinary life. I am a recovering addict. I was diagnosed with obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) with anxiety at an early age. When I was around 5, my mom caught me washing my hands till they bled. I don’t remember, but I do remember seeing multiple therapists from the age of 10 clear through high school. I also was prescribed many different medications trying to find what worked best for me. Nothing ever really seemed to until I started using. I felt confident and believe in myself for the first time. Don’t’ get me wrong, I had a great high school experience. I kept straight A’s, graduated fourth in my class, and played sports every year, but I did that all while wearing a ‘mask’ and hiding who I truly was.
Shortly after high school, I got married and got pregnant with my first son. I did quit using. I had a rough pregnancy, was on bedrest the entire time. After having him, I was prescribed pain medication. I went downhill fast! After just a few short months, I realized that was not the life I wanted for me or my son! I sought out help and have been in recovery ever since.
Now, nearly ten years later and three more kids, I finally feel like the best version of myself! My husband, also a recovering addict, and I are in the best place I think we have ever been. We both have matured and grown out of our foolish ways and only want what is best for our family? Our kids are our number one priority. We are raising our kids in the Church. I fully believe the Church has helped save us both? I no longer take prescription medication for my OCD. I still over worry and obsess about some things, mainly my health and my kids, but it is manageable.
I always knew I wanted to be a wife and mother, and I’m finally proud of the one I have become? I’m so thankful to God, my family, my husband, and my kids for giving me so many reasons to stay clean and sober. I love this life and everyone I have been blessed to share it with!
H F
Our journey within our recovery program has been a long road. We both have tried to get clean multiple times but failed. We were not honest, and we were not truly working the program. Being in a MAT program requires work and that work goes far beyond just taking a medication.
Our MAT program, combined with therapy and NA Twelve Steps program, has shown to be a true blessing to our lives. We are no longer prisoners to our past of the drugs. We have gone from being completely lost and hopeless to being productive members of society. We take our medicine, every day. We work our program, every day. Now, we are ‘NORMAL’, every day.
Thanks to our MAT program, NA program, and our hard work, we now have a solid guarantee of being reunited with our daughter. Before, the only option was termination. The proof is clear to see. If someone is true to their MAT program, shows honesty and integrity, and works the NA 12 Steps, a life free of addiction is a guarantee. Sobriety is free. It doesn’t cost a thing, just your time. The program works ONLY IF YOU WORK IT.
J & J M
To My Doctor
I wasn’t sure how best to write or go about this but, I just wrote what I felt and how it came to mind. You saved my life. I’m sure a handful of times, you also made my life somewhat normal. Even as a self-pay, saved me tens of 1000’s of dollars. I just want to personally say Thank You. Thank You for everything you have done for me.
I’m not really sure how to start this off, so I’m just going to put what I feel in order of what comes to mind. I can say without a doubt that this program has saved my life, at least a handful of times. The reason I can say this with 100% confidence is because of the funerals I’ve gone to since I’ve started the program. The saddest part about going to some of my best friends funerals is they knew through me THERE IS AN ANSWER.
Something that you don’t have to wake up every morning and wonder Who you have to call? Is it going to be there? ………….And most of all, Is it gonna kill me? The answer is YES.
It’s There are no calls, Just meetings. The same time every week or 2. And NO, it’s not gonna kill you, IT’S GOING TO SAVE YOUR LIFE. The hardest part is making the phone call and following through with going to that appointment. The amount of money you will save and stress of not having to worry about getting sick.
It is life changing. I swear to God, it’s saved me so much money and my life has become a complete 180 degrees from where I was before showing up at New Life. I can write this better because of New Life because I’M ALIVE. I honestly owe whatever life of days I wake-up to New Life. Just make the call. You will never look back.
H J L
I really don’t feel like doing this. I haven’t done a paragraph in 43 years. To where I was to where I am now, 100 Ten Percent better now. No more lying, stealing, hiding, cheating, being late for your son’s birthday, ballgames, and activities he has done. THAT IS SAD!
Took me a couple of tries to get in this program. But I made it. Happy to be where I’m at. No more fear. Still have annoying when I drive down a certain road about 5:00. They know what goes on there.
Have relationship with son, my mommy, my family. Go where I want without being paranoid. Anyway, I’m in a Better Place Now. Oh yeh, this all started back in 1979, all For Fun!
Thank you, New Life, My Doctor, and Team.
M H
Since I started my Recovery at New Life, my life, relationships, and career have changed dramatically. I am no longer ashamed of the person and mother I am today.
I have advanced in my career so much and take pride in my work. My daughter and I have the BEST relationship and spend all my free time together. Without the help from New Life, I don’t know where I’d be, but I do know I wouldn’t be where I am right now and for that I will forever be thankful.
A R
New Life has helped me more that I could ever repay them. My doctor is a wonderful doctor and the staff as well. They don’t look down on you.
Since I started this program, you don’t have to lie about where you are going and be sick all the time.
I work every day I can. I have money for me and my kids. Before, I was running to find something and not be sick.
I would recommend if you need help, just pick up the phone and call!
C N
I’m 30 years old, and I’ve been an addict since I was about 19 years old. I first dabbled and tried drugs around 15 years old but I didn’t really get hooked until I tried pills. It seems like I was hooked as soon as I tried them. I quite every other drug I’ve done or tried but I could not quit the pills for nothing!
I was hooked to them for years and I was always chasing that first high again so I did more and more and before I knew it, they didn’t work anymore. That’s when I turned to heroin and I absolutely loved it! At first I was snorting it, then I started shooting it, and it was the BEST FEELING EVER! I would do anything for heroin and I just got worse and worse. I lost my home, my family, my real friends, EVERYTHING!
When I met my husband, he did whatever he could to help me get clean and that’s when we found New Life. New Life seriously gave me a new life! Treatment helps me be the best mommy and wife I could be. Yes, I still have my bad days but with everything I’ve learned in my NA meetings, I’m able to fight through it. Treatment seriously save my life. Without treatment, I would probably be divorced, lost my son to the system, and back on drugs.
I can finally live a “normal” life and I love it. I lost way too many people to overdoses and suicide because they were either chasing that high or they thought there was no other way. I’m telling everyone, this treatment saved my life and I’m so, so grateful.
L M
I decided to seek help for my addiction at New Life Renewal Services because I knew if I continued down the road I was traveling, it would have ended very badly for myself. Having a family, I knew I needed to stop thinking selfishly about myself and apply my energy to fixing the problem so I could be the husband and father I needed to be. I started using drugs when the company I was employed with declare bankruptcy and closed down. A close family member then passed away and I lost my dog all within two weeks. I began using drugs to numb the pain and shortly after I became addicted. My life was in a downward spiral. I almost lost my marriage and that is when I decided to seek help.
I checked in at New Life Renewal Services and met my doctor. During the journey from being addicted to opiates to being clean for over three years, I have learned much about the way the body handles and reacts to certain rewards and distractions. My doctor has educated me on the entire process of addiction and most importantly how to correct the process and continue through life drug free. During my appointments, I have been able to confide in my doctor and I have been able to speak with him about things that I would not typically speak with others about. I feel I am lucky to be a patient of his because he saved my life. I am excelling at my career and my family life is fabulous. I am a coach, husband, father and son that I used to be before becoming addicted to opiates. I owe this to my doctor and the team at New Life Renewal Services.
My doctor has prepared me both mentally and physically and has given me the tools and knowledge I required to beat the addiction and maintain my life free of drugs. My doctor has created a website that I refer to quite frequently to learn about the scientific approach to addiction and how to overcome it. These tools have the ability to impact anyone who is coping with addiction and with my doctor’s help, anyone can overcome their addiction.
Thank you, New Life for saving my life and helping me take back control of my life!
Sincerely,
J H
My life in addiction has been a struggle for the past 15 years. It all started from a wisdom tooth extraction and from the pain pills prescribed by a licensed doctor, like many other that I know and have come across. It landed me in jail multiple times with felonies I’ll live with for the rest of my life, as well as in the hospital with life threatening injuries that no one including myself should of overcome. But I did and I have scars all over my body to remind myself what I’ve been through and overcame.
As far back as I can remember, my addiction has been #1 in my life. Sadly, it’s come before My Education, My Work, My Family and Friends. There comes a time in life where you just get tired of being on the shit end of the stick. At least for me there was. For the past 5 years, I have been prescribed Buprenorphine (Subutex) and it has been a saving grace. I now hold a valid Class A Commercial Drivers License (CDL) as well as a steady job. My friends and family don’t doubt me anymore and I feel like I have something to live for now.
Sobriety hasn’t come easy but nothing worth having comes easy. I’ll always be an addict but how I live my life now will never be like how it was at the beginning of my addiction and up through until 5 years ago. A lot of people look down upon medical treatment but if it wasn’t for it, my son would not have a father. My mom wouldn’t have a sone and so on. It has saved my life as well as many others.
KEEP ON KEEPIN ON !!!!!
W M
I want to thank my doctor and all the people at New Life Services for my New Life.
When I came here, I was broken and tired of living addicted and in fear of opiate withdrawal. The highs and lows of being addicted to pain pills had made me half crazy. Since come to New Life, every aspect of life has improved. Anyone can stop this terrible cycle with effort and New Life Services.
I thank you for my New Life.
C S
I thank my doctor and the entire staff at New Life Services for my life and some of my family members’ lives. Before my time was spent selling drugs to avoid the high cost of opiates. I helped ruin everything around me to not go through nightmare of withdrawal.
New Life has improved my life more than my wildest dream. I’m no longer broke and everyday I wake up happy. The one on one care has worked for me.
I hope anyone who sees this that struggles with addiction knows they can have a New Life.
W S
If you are tired of living the lifestyle that you are in, call New Life. They will help you.
My doctor is a great doctor. He don’t look at your flaws.
This Program has helped me a lot. Great staff. It’s nice to go to a place and not be treated like an addict.
M C
I am currently a patient at New Life and have been on Suboxone for several years. Initially I had a problem with alcohol for over 10 years, I never sought out any kind of treatment because I didn't have much regard for anything in my younger years. I first stumbled upon Suboxone roughly 8 years ago while at work, a friend of mine took them for opioid dependency and had offered me a small piece of film to make me feel a little better, I became very sick vomiting and generally uneasy. I thought to myself I would never take a piece of that again, however a few weeks later he offered me a piece once again, so this time I split that piece in half and felt much better than the previous time, I worked all day with an increased amount of energy and felt generally great, also when I came home from work that night I accomplished a few other things and slept like a baby.
This was new for me because at that time being an alcoholic I had to drink at night in order to sleep, this time I slept without drinking that night and as matter of fact I noticed that I had no urge to drink at all. Shortly after I began taking pieces of film a few times a week and then daily, I felt that I could function so much better plus had no desire to drink anymore. I felt so much better. Since I didn't know at the time that Suboxone was physically addictive I found out the hard way when I didn't take any for a few days, after that I ended up going to a doctor and getting them prescribed.
It wasn't until a couple of years ago that I tried heroin and began running my life downhill. Now that I know the struggles of heroin addiction personally I can say that Suboxone can save lives. I have on a few occasions witnessed as well as had to pull someone out of an overdose with Suboxone alone because there was either 1. No narcan available or 2. People were afraid to call 911 because of the police, it worked every time.
Personally I believe that this medication is a life saver in so many ways, it has helped me function over the years from helping me kick alcohol to maintaining a normal life without other opiates and gives me the daily energy that I need to tackle the work that I do. I am trying to rebuild my life after it fell apart years ago as well as my company. Without the use of my medication it would be extremely difficult to do.
I noticed 2 years ago when I went to jail for a month and got out, I wasn't seeing a Suboxone doctor at the time. I had been without it for a month and a half and began drinking again and using other drugs, once I found out about New Life and began coming there I got right back on track and no more drinking and other opiates again, now I'm doing well, building my company and my relationship with my girlfriend and other people I care about and enjoying life again.
I personally believe that anyone with any kind of opiate/opioid addiction or dependency should seek Suboxone treatment rather than methadone, it's a new era, a new generation, and Suboxone is most definitely the means to the end of opiate addiction.
A G
New Life has helped me in many ways. First off, this program has helped me maintain A DAY today without craving heroin. I also have got a career job in the coal mining business while being in this program. Today, I am truly blessed, I can look at myself in the mirror and say I LOVE YOU.
I can be a father today, a fiancé, a son, and a brother today, all because of this program.
I couldn’t imagine where I’d be right now if not having the opportunity of have New Life in my path. I am grateful for New Life. Right before I cam to the New Life program, I just relapsed for the first time and had to get hit with Narcan. Having the program take me in was a true eye opening experience for me. I am greatly appreciative.
Truly blessed,
C L
April 30th, 2001 … I guess for me that’s the day my fight with addiction really began. Before that day the only things I’d even tried was marijuana and alcohol. The same as any typical your person. Before that day, I was a normal young man with a normal life. At that time, I was an avid outdoors-man. I enjoyed hunting, fishing, and working, providing for myself and my life. At that point in my life, I didn’t even like taking Tylenol or any medications, really. Even when I had to have a tooth pulled. I would only take the pain meds they gave me for a day or two. Then throw the rest away. I had at that point in my life seen what addiction could do to someone.
But on that day of April 30th 2001 at 11:45 AM, my life was forever changed due to a horrific work-related accident. One that would forever alter my life in may different ways; leaving me with a variety of long-term problems and disabilities; one of which, my ongoing struggle with addiction, helped in large by doctors and hospitals, at that time, pumping me full of morphine, IV bags of it every few hours. I did not have much to say at the time due to the coma I was in. Now, I am not saying it was in any way anybody’s fault but my own. But it did not help matters and thanks to treatment and a very good doctor at New Life, I have come to understand that I have always had a pre-disposition to addiction.
But back to my story. After I regained consciousness, the meds did not stop. At this time, I was in so much pain, I had to have them, pain meds, and again I am not blaming anyone but myself, but they were happy to provide me with a variety of them. Then after about 6 or so years of this, I was told that whether I liked it or not, that I was addicted, if not mentally, by that time. I was most assuredly physically addicted. But truth be told, I was deep into both. I bounced around doctors for the next few years, living with the problem. Trying to keep a handle on it, and my life, but I was on a downward spiral.
Also, and in no way related at the time to my addiction, I was having spousal problems; an ongoing issue with my then significant other, who suffered from depression issues. So, to make a long story short, after 10 years, I just gave up, starting with the fight to keep my relationship with my now Ex alive.
Then new laws dictated that even how all my doctors said I’d always need pain meds, that now I couldn’t have them anymore; and it was at that crucial point that at that time my fate would be sealed. I was in so deep I could not make it through one day without pain meds. So, I started to find and buy them off the street, which put a strain on my finances. Which put a strain on my life and mental state. I had also given up on fighting for my relationship totally with my now Ex. I just got tired of fighting and trying to make something that did not and wouldn’t work. Plus, the money strains I was going through trying to keep everything normal.
Then one day, someone I met introduced me to other cheaper forms of narcotics which went on for a few years. In between, me and my now ex-spouse separated. At first, I kept our kids with me while spiraling down into depression further and further down the rabbit hole. At my lowest, I was living in a tent in the middle of the woods where I attempted suicide. I had taken enough drugs I thought to kill myself twice. I was isolated, alone, and no one knew where I was. But out of luck, fate, or reason, the attempts failed. After that, I reached out to friends for help, which they gave. Now at first, I did fall back into my ways, but then I listened. I made a phone call for help, went to the appointment, and then the program, and talking with other that knew what I was going through, and have been through.
Here, I am years later. Still in treatment, more importantly, still sober. I’ve got my life in order. I am still working on it, but I’ve got my own place and have for years now, a car, and my kids whenever I or they want. Life is looking up for me now. So, in short, if you’re reading this, and you’re struggling of falling, make the call for help. It is well worth it. Don’t be afraid that its too hard. You can do it with help and proper support.
H J
My Goals in My Life
Hello, I am R A. I am a recovering addict. I have this program to thank. My doctor and all the staff at New Life Renewal Services are the reason I am succeeding in this program. They are all so concerned if you walk int office and you are not smiling, they start asking ‘what’s wrong’. And honestly, I truly would not have made it this far if it wasn’t for this Subutex treatment.
I actually made a dream board so I can get reminded everyday what I’m going to be shooting for. My Dream Board are the things that I want to have before 2020 is over. I read a book about if you write your dreams down on paper and act like they are already here, you will have them in short time. So, on my Dream Board I put:
Now you see how I put God as my #1. It’s because if it wasn’t for God I wouldn’t be here writing this paper for my doctor. But you have to put detail in your dream board; don’t just put, I want a car of a house cut out picture of what your house will look like or the year, make and model car you are wanting. And every time you succeed with one thing on your dream board, mark that off and write another dream or goal you want to have.
Make life the best life you can make it. And remember money does not make you happy. Having your love and someone to share it with will be more than anything; more than money can buy. Love is something we can give for free. So, Give Love to everyone. I am sorry I got off track but I had to learn that Love was free cause I never really been loved by anyone until I found God in 2018 and I am very thankful that I found God in the worst year of my life.
But back to the Dream Board. I am telling you that board has changed my way of thinking and doing things. So, I want you to make a Dream Board or just write it down and be very detailed about what your dreams or goals are. And then put it up somewhere you see it every day. To remind yourself you are worth everything you write you write down; you just got to work for it; don’t give up on it because you failed. Just pick yourself up and try again.
OK, I think I have said enough. So, hope you have a blessed and happy day.
God Bless,
R A H
Life is a little different now than years before. Instead of waking up thinking about getting high, I am waking up to go to work. But was not always this way. I was stuck in a bad rut with drugs to where that is all that mattered and all I wanted. Did not care about working, relationships with family and friends and girlfriends. Just wanted to get high. It took 12 different times of almost losing my life and some felony charges to finally sit and think about what was going on in my life. So, I started coming (to the program) and was still in a battle at first. Still could not get away from using, but with time and effort and keeping myself away from people that still use, I was able to focus on work and try to calm my demons enough to not bother me.
I think about it from time to time but do not get on it anymore. I have lost so may friends over the years and even though I am not in that life, I still continue to lose them. It’s terrible to run into someone you know that’s stuck in the same loop you were just a couple of years ago and they still have the same mindset that you had about quitting and getting clean. You try to tell them it was the best thing you done and they don’t care.
I am trying to continue in the right direction. I need to be in life like working, being clean and trying to continue forward in life. I have lost so much over the years and I am tired of it. I want to keep working; get off parole and see where life takes me. I believe I will continue to move forward. I may stumble along the way, but as long as I get back up and not let it defeat me again. I realize it will always be a battle but as of right now, I got a full-time job, a ride, and a relationship, working on getting a place, and continuing forward in life
J H
How has this program helped me and my life, you might ask? .......Well let me tell you.
It has done wonders in changing my life in many different positive ways. Such as, I’m not out on the chase for illegal substances. I’m not out doing illegal stuff to supply my habit anymore.
Now my family and friends are happy with how I’ve changed. They can tell I’m a whole different person now. Which makes me feel really good about myself.
I plan to stay on the straight and narrow the rest of my life.
Quotes:
“Never look back; keep heading forward.”
“Don’t let people judge you by your past.”
“Keep on, keepin on.” Joe Dirt
M M
Road to Recovery
My addiction started like many others. I was having knee pain and was referred to a “pain specialist” by my PCP. My first visit, I was prescribed two different pain medications to be taken every four hours. It wasn’t long before I was over-taking the medication, but still couldn’t admit I had a problem. I was confronted by family but always told them I was “fine.” After years of living that life, I knew I needed to make a change.
I made the call and within a couple of days, I was walking into my first doctor’s appointment to begin my recovery. To say I was scared would be an understatement. I quickly realized they had my best interest at heart. I have accomplished so much I never thought was possible before starting recovery. I purchased a home on my own, two new vehicles and so much more. I feel my family is able to have a good relationship with me and can once again trust me fully. All of this was possible only through recovery.
Recovery has not always been easy. I have had many bumps along the way, but I wouldn’t be who I am without my recovery. At the beginning of my road to recovery, I met a fantastic man that was traveling the same path. We have been able to travel this road together and I think it’s made it easier having a partner that knows exactly what I have been through and still loves me unconditionally.
I will forever be thankful for my doctor and the entire staff at New Life Recovery. My doctor always meets you with a smile and genuine concern for your recovery and well-being. Thank you, doctor and staff for helping us along this journey. We are forever grateful to have you in our corner.
D H
My Recovery:
My journey through recovery is what helps define me as the person I am today. I think of it as a piece to my puzzle. One piece love, one piece happiness, and the other part recovery.
To me becoming an addict split a void between love and happiness with addiction. Replacing addiction with recovery, and having the world’s best support team, as I do, were key ingredients to my own recovery.
From start to present, my recovery has been a roller coaster ride to a calm breeze, full of ups and downs. Seeking help for my addiction was one of the best decisions I’ve made.
Continuing to take one day at a time, my life is great, and I am a better person for myself and family.
J S
My name is R D.
I work for the Department of Highways. I used to be on pain pills real bad in the past. And then I got to the point of realizing that I had a problem with them. But it still took me a while before I decided that I needed help.
I spent a lot of my time a lot of my time looking for pain pills, and it cost me relationships too. But at the time, it did not care, as long as I had my pain pills. It did not hurt as bad.
Then after going through a couple of relationships because of hiding it, and sneaking around all the time, and lying. I figured it was time to find and get some help for my problem with pain pills. Never realizing or caring about what I had lost, or who I had hurt because of my addiction.
But since I have been with New Life Renewal Services, a lot of things have changed for the better. It feels good not to have to lie about the things that I have had to lie about before.
I have got a good job now; own my home; and I do not have to lie about my life anymore.
And it makes me feel better about myself, knowing that I am getting help. And getting my life back on track. Thanks to New Life and the help and support from my Family and Friends.
R D
I was addicted to oxycodone and oxycontin for over 20 years and really wasn’t aware of it till it was a big problem and I was too late to I lost my marriage and everything else I worked for in my life.
My son became of age and told me what was wrong with me. He confronted me about my problem and gave me an ultimatum to quite and get help of our relationship would suffer. So, I quite and went through withdraws 14 days. The 15th day, a friend handed me a “New Life” business card. I called and to in to see a doctor.
From that day on, I have been on suboxone and seeing my doctor. I cannot thank them enough for saving me and my relationship with my son. It is so great and so much better than ever!!! Still working on some things, but I know in my soul they truly saved my life and I look forward to telling anybody how great “New Life” is. I am so grateful for them.
My doctor is fantastic. He actually talks to you and takes time to see how you are dealing with everything in your life. He really truly cares about me and his patients.
S L
My name is L S. I am 44 years old. My youth was troublesome, which led to depression and anxiety. I was never treated for it and did not know anything about it, so I ended up making poor choices in my teens and early 20’s. I became a mother at 15 years old and by the time I was 21, I had 3 children and trying to be an adult.
I was stressed out a lot, due to being so young with so much responsibility. So, when I was offered pain pills (because they will take my stress away), I took them. They did make me feel happier and I felt like I could handle everything that was thrown at me. The problem was, I was not told that I would become dependent on those same pills that made me happy.
After a couple of months of getting them pretty easily, they started to become harder to get and I finally realized what withdrawal was! I could not sleep, had no appetite, restless legs, and this horrible scratchy throat that felt like I ate sand! I was miserable! I just wanted it to go away!
The solution...find more pills! That was how I lived for a few years. I was always trying to find a way to get just one more!
One day, after searching for a few days and still unable to find any pain pills, I was offer Subutex!!! I honestly did not want it! I wanted pain pills! I took the Subutex just to feel better and the next time pain pills were available, I got more. After a while, I realized that more and more people that I was getting pain pills from, were getting clean and now taking Subutex. So, that was all I kept finding. So, I figured now is the time to get off of the pain pills myself and I decided to start coming to New Life with my sister and I have not touched a pain pill since that day.
MY LIFE IS BETTER!! I am glad I made the decision to walk away from it! Fi I could go back in time, I would NEVER touch any drugs, PERIOD!
L S
To Whom it May Concern:
My name is M. I am 47 years young. I have had depression episodes since I was a teen. Having trouble of letting go of past problems and dealing with body issues that caused me to have bead insecurities. I saw doctors off and on from a teen up to my mid-20’s. I eventually gave up because I felt Prozac, Paxil, etc., did not help me. When I was 30, I messed around a couple of times and tried snorting Percs or Lortab. Just a couple of time. I did not have the knowledge on the addiction back then, so I thought I was immune to the withdrawal people talked about. I thought I was different and would not or could not get addicted.
I gave birth to my daughter at 30 years young. I had a C-section. I did not do any pills or even think of them my whole full-term pregnancy. I got Percocet 30 every week while I healed up from the C-section and it took longer than most, due to me being on Heparin shots. I got a blood clot in my incision that had to be packed daily. So, by the time I got weaned off of them and me not taking them like they said to, I snorted them and ate them by mouth. I started feeling withdraws worse than I ever could have imagined. I ended up buying them off the street. They were not much at first, just a couple of dollars a pill. But as time when on, my addiction got worse and the cost kept going up. My life spiraled out of control. I was a mess.
I went from being a working woman who took great care of herself to looking strung out and lost a lot of people. If it was not for the New Life clinic and my doctor prescribing me Subutex, I would still be there. Thanks to the clinic and my doctor, I do not even think about pain pill now.
M L
Recovery and Sobriety, everyone has their own opinion what it comes to this topic; but please do not believe anyone’s but your own. It is a hard, long road, and just like everything else in life, you can use guidance, but you have to figure out what is best for you and only you. Do not, I REPEAT, do not let anyone talk down to you for how you achieved Sobriety, because people who talk down to you for using medication, is because they are ignorant and misinformed.
When I was in active addiction, I never thought I would be able to say I am sober. I have done the whole cold turkey thing, many, many times and all I did was make myself suffer and relapse. Then I did research and found treatment centers that medically assist you, and that is when my life changed. Yes, do I take medication daily to function; I SURE DO, but so do many other people, for their illness, pain and disease, so they can function daily, as well. My biggest reason for getting sober was not only for me, but my daughter, who needed me to be healthy and strong. And now, here I am stronger than ever, and tacking life day by day, but a lot easier.
Do not let anyone tell you addicts cannot or do not change. Because I as well as many others have and are doing it daily and it’s a fight we will fight forever. Thankfully, I have a solid support system. But the people who were against it, I cut completely out, because toxic and negative is the last thing that will help you succeed.
So put yourself first when it comes to getting sober, regardless of your reason.
C M
BEING CLEAN ...... MEANS KEEPING A JOB .......AND GETTING TO SEE MY DAUGHTER........ AND LIVING A LIFE WITHOUT LOOKING FOR THAT NEXT HIGH!
D B
As I started this program, I was scared of what people would think of me, as I walked into the office. But as I did, I was greeted with kindness, compassion, and a sense of family.
The program has helped me so very much. Not long after entering the program, I was faced with a traumatic, life-altering situation, and messed up. The doctor took me by the hand and listened to me and gave me encouraging advice. To this day and the rest of my life, I will never ever forget.
“ONE DAY AT A TIME” was something we were told. I live by that statement. Sometimes I think it should be “ONE MINUTE AT A TIME” or even “ONE SECOND AT A TIME”. Life is short and never again will I waste it by giving up my sobriety.
So, at this time, I would like to thank the doctors and the staff at New Life for being there for me at my times of need. You have seen me at my lowest point in life, and thanks to the program, I have the courage and strength to try and help others in their time of need.
I now have a new outlook on life, and focus not only on myself but others, as well. I can now chase my grandchildren around rather that chase the high, that I used to think was all I needed.
Thank God for New Life. You sure saved me!
P G
I am not really sure how to write this, but here goes nothing.
So, what my feelings are towards Recovery are. My Recovery has led to me being able to be a productive member of Society. I have kept a job for the last 7 years and been promoted several times. I do not miss work. I do not call off. I also have a family that supports me. They say that I am not the same person I was years ago when I was doing drugs. I used to be very moody and had an anger problem; only caring about myself; but this medicine and the people in my life has changed all of that. Now, saying that I do not feel that I want to take this medicine for the rest of my life but right now I feel that it is the best thing for me.
Now, the things that I do not like about it is the way people look or treat me over it. Oh, he is a drug addict. He will never change. The discrimination is crazy! But they have never walked in my shoes. So, I day do not judge me until you have been there yourself.
I have changed my life in ways that I thought would never be possible. But it has: I have a wife, child, job, I just bought a new vehicle, and my bills are always paid, and I have money in the bank. If it were not for my doctor, the medicine, or my family and me, I would not have accomplished any of it. My next goal in my recovery is to buy my own house.
Well I have put some stuff down on paper. Not sure if it is what was wanted but it is the way I feel. Honestly, I am not sure where I would be without everything that is in my life. I work 7 days a week, 10-12 hours a day. So, I do not really have time to do anything, but I know that I do not want to do drugs. I have too much will power and do not want to go back to that life. I like my life the way it is now.
J T
This medication has helped me in SO many ways, that it is hard to display just a few examples. However, I would like to give some notable mentions of how this medication has impacted ME for the better. First and foremost, it has enabled me to function as a normal person in society, but it also Has allowed me to get my life back on track. For example, I have managed a GPA of 3.6 throughout my 5 years of nursing education; and without this medication my dream of becoming a RN would not be possible.
More excitingly, I can now say that I am expecting another child; and I can rest assured that it will be healthy and happy with its development and delivery.
I know this is just a peak into my life and it may be hard to express, but the reality is, without this medication my life would be taking a turn for the worse and not the better.
Sincerely,
A S
My Recovery Story:
At first, all I wanted to do was fit in with the cool crowd. I would go out to the bars and clubs and drink on nights when I had to work the next day; plus, I hate the taste of alcohol! I then found myself smoking Pot and I loved it. I told myself, “this is great…I don’t need anything else!
Next thing I know, I am trying coke, crack, tripping on acid and shrooms; just to try and fit in. then I met the mother of my child and at that point we were both hooked on pain pills and I still was smoking pot as well. This continued for almost a year of not being able to pay bills, rent, buy food, gas – all the essentials; moving from place to place; stuck in a cycle.
Then we found out she was pregnant with my daughter and then and there I realized it was time to get my life together and seek help. At first, it was hell. Any addict knows withdrawal is terrible; but what got me through was the fact I was not just getting clean for me; I wanted to be the best father I can and that’s impossible if I’m spending all my money on drugs. With my doctor’s guidance and my will power, I have been clean for almost 5 years.
Whenever I am ready, I would like to be 100% off of any meds. However, it is a process that cannot be rushed or forced upon you. You have to want it, want to be sober and clean, or you are just wasting everyone’s time. With a great support system and strong will power, anything is possible.
M W
When I was younger, I had all of these ideas about who I wanted to become; what I wanted to do with my life; and I had the basics of what was needed to achieve those goals. However, I got lost on my journey. I lost every part of myself in active addiction.
Now, seven years on my journey, a total of almost 5 with help and without relapse, I am realizing I am not the same person I was, even before addiction took control over my life. All that matters now is that I am making choices to be the happiest, healthiest version of myself for my family and I am figuring more out about myself along the way. Knowing who I am and what I am capable of is a powerful thing. Resilience is what allows people to go through horrible things and come out stronger than ever!
The most important choice I have made to date was to enter Recovery. I have changed my surroundings, thoughts, and actions and learned to live one step, one day at a time.
I owe everything to the program; it changed my life! I am not w mother and thank God for those blessings. I am a sponsor and have people that have become life family. I am getting ready to graduate from college with an Associates Degree and am now a homeowner.
I now have a deeper sense of understanding of myself that I ever thought was possible. By numbing my inner darkness with drugs, it meant I was also numbing the brightness of my journey. My recovery taught me to accept my darkness, embrace my light, and love myself. I will forever be grateful for my new life and the Higher Power that led me into Recovery and continues to guide me every single day.
R M
The darkest and lowest part of my life was from 18 to 22 years of age. I met a guy that took advantage of me, used me, and beat me. He tore me down. I started using more and more. It went from weed to Coke to meth. I made myself think I was not worth any better. I started dancing to feed my habit; and what I did not use for my habit, I gave to a man who treated me like I was nothing.
I finally had the courage to leave and stay away when I met my husband. He helped me see I was worth more and deserved better. He helped me quite everything; dancing and all the drugs that I used to make all the pain go away. We had our first son. I was completely happy and clean for 2 years. Later, I got pregnant with our 2nd son. After giving birth, my incision got infected, so, my doctor gave me 3 months’ worth of Percocet. Well, then I could not stop. It went from Percocet 5 to 10 to 30’s. Then when I could not get pills, I turned to heroin.
After 2 years of using, I seen all the damage I would put my kids through, and I would not and could not let that happen. So, I searched my soul. I quit for me so I could finally have my life free and sober and happy. It has been 5 years and I still struggle every day with craving. Subutex helps, but I still have nightmares that I am still using. But I take it one day at a time. I talk to people who have been through this and came out on the other side.
K H
My addiction started at a young age. I was slowly killing me and everything that I loved. It took a long time for me to realize this an admit it to myself and to the people I loved.
Once I started to get myself clean, I realized I had more strength and courage than I ever thought I had. Being clean gave me the determination to overcome something that should have killed me. And in all honesty the horrible attack should have. But I had to fight for myself and my family. To make them see that my recovery had made me a force to be reckoned with. I'm not saying that it is an easy path, but it is so worth it.
I will continue to fight to keep my recovery every day. And want to say a huge thank you to Dr. Clark, New Life and my family for helping save my life an keeping me on the right track.
I will continue to make yawl proud an keep up the fight.
A H
Over the course of the Pandemic, my life has been obviously altered a decent amount. Also, being a recovering drug addict makes the challenges more difficult. Being on Suboxone has been a blessing, in general, but, especially during the Covid-19 Pandemic. I was laid off for about two months, and that was stressful. Luckily, I am seeing my doctor, so, I have not had to resort to the former life that I have lived before.
A lot of other blessing have been apparent in my life recently, as well. The clinic has helped me maintain stability in my life. My relationships with my family have been a lot better. I have actually been very happy recently. We all have, in common, worries that have come from the Pandemic. Uncertainties have been very concerning, though we do not know what lies in the months and years ahead. One thing is for sure, though; we will all come out the other side stronger and more transparent in our endeavors.
I will keep my head held high and my eyes on the prize of a happy life. My advice to anyone reading this is to follow through with your goals that you have set; and always remember that you are not alone in your life; no matter how you feel.
A J S
Dear New Life Doctor,
I am excited to be a part of this quilt. This past summer, I have been working on gardening. I love photography. I graduated with a B.F.A. at the University of Arts in Philadelphia.
I like working on innovative unique ideas, and jewelry. I took a class at the Community College for Photo Shop.
I like the subject matter of flowers and architecture. Using form shape and color to compose continuity and process. 'Art and Technology' is a patent I worked on with the concept of the “mirror.”
I also went to school at the Pittsburgh School of Massage. I have a few classes to finish to get certified. My massage table is set and ready for business.
In addition to this quilt, I have noticed a change in my health. I am happy to be a part of New Life. I am enjoying my family and exercising at the gym. Probiotic Diet and gardening is a peaceful way to become one with Nature.
A new day is challenging from politics to everyday health. I enjoy communication with you and your genuine concern in the professional field.
Sincerely,
E C S
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