“BEST DECISION OF MY LIFE! AMAZING!” I was so frightened going to recovery. I hated myself and all the things life just kept throwing at me. My addiction had me sheltered away from people. I didn’t know who I could trust. It kept me hidden from society. Kept me from wanting to continue living. But I made the decision. The best decision I could ever make. Taking a flight to southern California and spending time at my new temporary home. I was expecting brick walls, locked doors, cell phone gone, and a payphone only to call my family. But what a found was a cozy brand new home. Doors unlocked, stocked fridge, and my cell phone always with me. With really cool down to earth people there that were so caring and understanding of everything I was going through. The people there became my friends. The staff there became my mentors. The food was catered and amazing! Or we cooked for each other. We had group sessions where we were shown what the addiction was doing to our brains and showed us the tools needed to shut that addictive voice out of our heads. Took relaxing yoga classes, went to the gym. On weekends they took us out to some incredible places, to show us we can enjoy life again. We went to the beach, took a hike up to the Hollywood sign, watched amazing movies at the theater, checked out the Hollywood stars, even went to six flags! This place gave me the hope I needed to know there is good people out there that care. That there is still a life worth living. I was an addict for 25 years, lost my job, my dog, my wife, my kids, next was my home. Now I am 6 months clean. Still have my house and a great new job paying me incredible money. Money that my bills are paid with, I’m able to take trips to amazing places, and a family having an amazing Christmas. No more wasting it away stuck in my prison of addiction. Empower showed me that life can happen again. There is hope out there if you work towards it. There is no need to just give up. Empower saved my life. Susan, Kevin, Brian, Travis, Brad, Jen, Diane, Emily, PJ, and so many others. These people all understand. I thank you all for everything you’ve done for me. Life is amazing now!
