"I am not a victim of addiction I am a survivor"

I started to drink at a very young age, I loved the buzz and confidence it gave me. As the years went by my drinking became out of control .I got married and had two lovely boys but that still wasnt enough I was waking up shaking sweating I started to blackout I was glad about them as i didnt want to remember about my behaviour. Nobody wanted to be around me, I lost my family and my two beautiful boys.

My drinking then became out of control I started to have seizures. I knew I had to do something my doctor referred me to CGL HALTON I have never looked back,they made me feel so welcome .I started to get involved in all activities days out Smart Meetings, Yes there was times when I relapsed but I was always welcomed back with open arms. I was never judged.

My turning point was last year I started to get involved in the gardens at CGL HALTON. This was what I needed I knew I was getting well, for me recovery is one day at a time. I am now a Volunteer and Smart facilitator. A massive thank you to all staff who stood by by side thankyou from the bottom of my heart.

Jodie my line manager who got me through my darkest days and was only a phone call away when Covid appeared. She got me back down to CGL and helped me get my well being and confidence back. I tell myself everyday I am not a victim of addiction I am a survivor.