Her Comeback Story: From Addiction to Finding Direction
From Rock Bottom to Recovery: How I Reclaimed My Life After Addiction
Four years ago, I couldn’t go an hour without alcohol. Today, I manage professional events where alcohol is often everywhere, and I no longer feel pulled to drink.
That contrast still stops me sometimes, because not long ago, I was at rock bottom.
In 2022, I was deep in denial about my addiction. I couldn’t get through a day—who am I kidding, not even an hour—without alcohol. I told myself I was functional. Just a few sips here and there. I convinced myself I had it under control.
That was until I was arrested for drinking and driving on a random Tuesday afternoon.
In that moment, every emotion imaginable surfaced—fear, shame, anger—but the one I remember most clearly was freedom.
Ironically, with handcuffs on my wrists, I finally felt free.
It was the moment I could no longer deny the truth: alcohol owned me.
I only wish I had found the courage to admit it sooner.
The following day, after being released from jail, I checked myself into a rehabilitation facility. I spent more than 40 days there, relearning what felt like everything from the ground up.
Therapy became my routine.
For the first time in a long time, I had no responsibilities other than getting better.
And in a strange way, it became one of the most grounding and transformative periods of my life.
Going home was terrifying.
Alcohol hadn’t disappeared. The triggers were still everywhere.
But this time, I had tools.
I learned how to cope without numbing, how to sit with discomfort, and how to show up for my life instead of escaping it.
As I grew stronger in my recovery, I began rebuilding my confidence—and eventually, my career.
I started in a receptionist role within the mental health industry.
It was a small step, but an important one.
It gave me structure again, and more importantly, it gave me clarity.
With a degree in Hospitality Management from the University of Central Florida, I knew I didn’t want to return to traditional hotel operations.
But I also knew I wanted to build something meaningful with the skills I had worked hard to develop.
So I stopped settling and started intentionally pursuing work that challenged me, fulfilled me, and restored my sense of purpose.
One year passed.
Then two.
Then three.
Now, I’m approaching four years in recovery, and I haven’t looked back.
Today, I work in event planning and association management.
I now coordinate events where alcohol is often present.
And I can say, without hesitation, that I have no desire to drink.
Recovery didn’t take opportunities away from me—it gave them back.
It gave me clarity, direction, and the ability to show up fully in both my personal and professional life.
Every day, I have the opportunity to be a better version of myself—for my career, for my family, and for myself.
If you’re struggling, especially while trying to hold together a career, a family, or both, you are not alone.
Addiction does not mean you have failed.
It means something in your life needs to change.
And I promise—change is possible.
