Vacations are a much-loved tradition many of us look forward to every summer, but for Sarah, one of our graduates, her recent getaway was a first in her sobriety.

This trip signified independence, resilience and reconnection.

This summer, Sarah worked hard to save up for a trip that brought her, her daughter and her grandchildren back together again after four long years of estrangement.

In late June, Sarah set forth for the beaches of Florida, alone and unafraid. This was the first time she was able to save funds, plan and make this trip all on her own. “The drive was peaceful and gave me time to think and reflect.”  

She met up with her daughter in Georgia for a stop at a turtle sanctuary. This was special as both her and her daughter shared the love and interest for these gentle creatures.

“I recall a moment from the trip when my daughter and I were cooking and there was just pure happiness. No shame, no embarrassment, and no drug-induced fake smiles. It was bliss.”
 
So many family relationships are demolished by the disease of addiction. But the gift of sobriety—and patience—often brings an opportunity to heal and restore many of them.