They believed in me before I believed in myself - Wanda's Story

"I was indicted on intent to distribute methamphetamine. My son was six years old. I remember feeling relief when I was arrested because life had become so chaotic. I felt guilty and ashamed for my actions and for all I had put my son through. I also knew I was a disappointment to my family once again.

“I knew I needed to make some big changes in my life, I just had no clue how to begin. When I was sent to St. Monica’s, I was happy just because it meant I would get out of jail. But I immediately felt the compassion and love from the staff and my counselor, Jenny. They believed in me before I believed in myself.

“After treatment, I completed my federal sentence and have now been sober for more than 10 years. I am working at a women’s treatment center because I want to share the same compassion with other women just like me. My son is in high school. A friend told me about Habitat for Humanity, and I applied. I am now paying a mortgage for our own home.

“Before St. Monica’s, I never thought anything great was going to happen in my life because I never believed in myself. I do believe in myself today, and that is one of the greatest gifts I have been given. Life is good, one day at a time."