My childhood was difficult. I lived in an unstable home, and my mom was addicted to drugs. By the time I was 12 or 13, I was smoking meth with my mom and I was using every day after that.
It was really hard to imagine having a day without being high. I went through several different foster homes my last year and a half of high school and the last home I was in were foster parents who were a little bit hippie, a little bit rock and roll.
Without their unflinching love, especially in the light of my most awful behavior, I honestly think that I may have killed myself, either accidentally or otherwise.
My life today is such an incredible miracle, and it is never lost on me.
I’m in my 27th year of recovery and there are still some days where I stand at my kitchen window and I look outside my backyard and I’m struck with disbelief that I live in a safe home with my sons, who are safe, who have everything they need, who have never seen me loaded. My life is incredible.
– Rachel Young
Fitness Instructor & Business Owner
Sober for 27 years
Ukiah, CA
Addiction is not a choice and it doesn't define people. It's our responsibility to be kind and offer support to people experiencing addiction.
We can overcome addiction, together.
Find help for yourself or a loved one.