"You have been the best"

My experience at Dame Carol Unit. Before I entered the unit I was drinking just to even face a normal day's life both mentally and physically. I have never been through a detox centre before and at first I was reluctant to go.

With the support and advice from my key worker I felt this was the best option for me. When I entered the unit I had extreme withdrawal symptoms and I was welcomed with open arms, love and care.

The first day was the hardest for me, and within the first 24 hours I wanted to leave, thankfully I didn't and I stuck to it. Thank goodness I did.

The nurses and the staff encouraged me so much as well as other residents, there was no judgement made towards me in any way whatsoever.

The programme offered various different coping mechanisms such as relaxation sessions and meditation techniques, group sessions from staff in the unit, as well as other bodies such as NA/AA who came in to share their experiences.

The medication was dealt with extremely well from the beginning until the end with the reduction, even my shakes went.

I cannot express how grateful I am to have been given this opportunity to rebuild my life.

Oh and not to forget the chef, who also provided really nice food and catered for any diet requirements.

I was extremely sad to leave as I also bonded with other house members as well as the staff, but I knew that this was a healing process for me.

I pray and hope to continue sobriety, I have also never laughed so much, being under the influence of alcohol took the most basic things in life which should be appreciated.

Thank you Dame Carol, you have been the best.