Celebrating Women in Recovery

#WeDoRecover | #OneDayAtATime | #SoberStrong | #WomensDayEveryday | #GirlPowerEffect

ALEX

Mother, Daughter, Sister Recovery Champion

Can you tell us a little bit about yourself and your journey?

I'm Alex, I’m 32 and I'm an Addict. I struggled with addiction for over 10 years, going in and out of detox, rehab, and sober living while trying to find stability. During that time, I lost custody of my children and became disconnected from much of my family. Everything changed when I found out I was pregnant with my third child, I made the decision to get sober and completely turn my life around. Today, I’ve rebuilt strong relationships with my family and am proud of the life I’ve created.

What was one of the most challenging moments in your life, and how did you navigate it?

One of the most challenging moments of my life was when I lost custody of my children. It devastated me and ultimately pushed me even deeper into my addiction.

What motivated you to keep going during those difficult times?

My family was my biggest motivation. My mother, my step father and my Aunt were there for me every step of the way, they never gave up on me. During those times I had lost my relationship with my children, my father and my sister. I understood that loss and respected those boundaries they had to put in place. I knew that if I kept fighting I could eventually have those very meaningful relationships back as long as I was willing to put in the work.

What does resilience mean to you?

Resilience, to me, means having the strength to keep going even when life feels like it’s falling apart. It’s about getting back up after setbacks, learning from the hardest moments, and choosing to keep moving forward no matter how many times you’ve been knocked down. It’s not about being perfect, it’s about not giving up, even when things feel impossible.

Can you share a moment when you felt proud of how far you’ve come?

My family planned my funeral while I was still alive. This past year they got to attend my wedding. I married a man who is extremely supportive of my sobriety and has stood by me through some of my worst times. I had my children and my sister stand up with me.I was surrounded by people who love me and are proud of me, a moment I never thought possible years ago.

How has your life changed since overcoming those challenges?

My life has changed drastically for the better. Other then my children, my happiest moment was when I reconnected with my sister, my best friend. I am happily married, have a home of my own, am raising my children and step children and even get to spend time with my niece and nephew who I love deeply. I have hobbies, I have healthy relationships and I even have a key to my mothers house! People trust me now which I never thought possible at one point.

What are your goals moving forward?

My goals moving forward are to continue growing into the best version of myself, to keep on this journey of sobriety and keep building a stable, loving life for my family. I want to build a future that my children can feel proud of. I’m also focused on personal growth, continuing to learn, heal, and build a life that reflects who I am today, not who I used to be.

What would you say to someone who is going through a similar struggle?

I would tell them not to give up. There is always hope and don't be afraid to reach out for help. You do not have to face these struggles alone. It may not be easy but the results are so worth it! You have nothing to lose and everything to gain with sobriety.

Interviewed by Toni Fulkerson Indigenous Social Work Student, Laurentian University