I chose to work in the mental health and substance abuse field after battling my own addiction. In
my personal life, as I was on the road to recovery, I really appreciated the people who lead me in
the right direction, keep me going, motivated me, and made me feel worthy. Not everyone
understands why people have mental illnesses or substance abuse issues and automatically will
judge others with these illnesses.
I love that I can be an example of recovery. I can share with my
team where I started and how far I have come. I also understand on a personal level what our
patients are dealing with. If I am able to speak to the patients, show them empathy, be
understanding and end up making that patient’s day even just a little bit better, I have done my job.
I continue to learn something new every day! I have the best support system at home that drives me
to work my hardest and to be successful. I want my family to be proud of who I have become. You
have to work hard, be honest, trustworthy, and dependable. I wish nothing but for others to see that
even after you fall, you can get back up and be successful!
