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Sierra Tucson's Message Board
helps alumni stay connected with each other after treatment. If you
would like to post a message of hope and encouragement or just say
"Hi," please submit your message or response. (All messages are reviewed
and approved by Sierra Tucson staff prior to posting.) Peggy L. 08/24/2008 Hello S Tucson - To the past and present I have 11 years August 15th. My oldest daughter was also married that weekend, It's was & is "amazing" because I was there in mind , body and sober..... thank you for the life I've been able to live. keep the circle growing.... My life is totally a miracle , I 'am blessed. Brittany W 08/20/2008 Hey everybody I just wanted to check in and let everyone know how amazing life has been pos-Sierra! I was admitted February 6th 2008 and it was the best decision i've ever made for myself. Sierra Tucson truly saved my life. I turned 23 years old during my stay at Sierra and being young in recovery was a very scary thing for me in the beginning, but I was very lucky to have had met many amazing young adults(Shoutout to TEAM CHANDLER), many of whom I am still in contact with to this day. My ST friends helped me to realize that getting sober early in life is truly a blessing! I am coming up on 6 months sober and I am living a life I only dreamed of before! At the reccomendation of the one and only Dave Chandler, I came to Orange County for a 90-day aftercare program (Safe Harbor) and after completing the program I now live in a sober living home with 12 amazing young women who are not only my friends but my support group and best friends. I would love to connect with anyone who is in Orange County (coffee, meeting?)! In closing, Sierra Tucson (aka Camp Sobriety) was not only a place for me to begin my journey in sobriety, it was a place where I was able to get to know myself again. The staff and the community truly changed my life forever and I will be forever grateful. BrittanyMignon@aol.com Jamie R. 08/11/2008 I just wanted to THANK Tim McLeod and Patty Reyna SO much for this past weekend! The was my second ST Reunion and I honestly didn't think it could've topped last years! Well, it did! It was amazing in every way shape and form! It recharged my batteries and helped me realize that none of us are EVER alone! As time goes by you tend to forget the warmth and PURE energy that ST has! If I needed a hug or someone to talk with that TRULY understood my pain, all I had to do was look to my left, right, infront and in back of me and there was ALWAYS someone there!!! Anyway, I REALLY encourage any of you to come next year!!! Recovery is NOT perfect! So if you're struggling what a better time to reach out to all of us that "get it"! I know that through my recovery I've learned the best way I can I live my life is from a NON- judgemental place! We are all beautiful spirits and are WORTH being loved! I think what really had the most impact on me during the weekend was Sunday morning at ST right after we gave our coins out to the patients, an alumni gave a coin to a girl in the ED track who than began to cry and ended up going to talk to a therapist. I was in the ED track when I was there and I asked a couple of the girls if she was alright, and they said it was her second day there! Wow, did that take my breath away! I can remember that feeling of OH MY GOD what in the world I am I doing here! I don't think any of us can forget all of those emotions running wild through out our entire mind and body! I immediatley wanted to wrap my arms around her and let her know that is will get better if you want it to! It's not always going to be easy, but don't give up! It really is possible to have your life back!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! You just have to trust the process! Since she left, all I can do is let go and know that ST can save her life, because it saved mine! To those of you that made it, it was an amazing weekend and awesome to meet all of you! For those of you that didn't make it, it's never too late! With Love and Peace, Jamie R. Leawood, KS Linda C, Feb 2007 08/09/2008 Hello! I am moving to Washington DC from FL...wondering if I can connect. ST was a livesaver for me, pulling me out of my trauma and back into a full life. Wish I could attend the reunion! Lisa B...contact me!! Jana T 07/29/2008 Oh I am so bummed that I am not able to come to the reunion this year. It is one of the best experiences that I have ever had. I love Sierra Tucson. I now reside in Orange County, and would love to connect, reconnect with anyone from Sierra. Nov 2 will mark 6 years sober god willing. I will miss everyone this year. Love, Jana janatriplett@gmail.com Erin P 07/28/2008 i just want to see if there is young adults who lives in orange county . i was in ST in november to december 2007 and it was the best thing that has ever happened to me. i met so many amazing people with various stories. i just moved to california from texas for school. I was one of the youngest girls there but even then everyone made me feel so comfortable as soon as i got there. i have been sober for the most part with a few struggles here and there. i bought a ring there with 2 other people that says love on it and ive worn it ever since to remind me of the amazing people i met there. i still keep in touch with the ones i was closest to. i live near sober living by the sea and its such a beautiful place to go afterwards. i wish every day i could go back to ST and learn even more and get even more time with all the amazing people. good luck to all of you and let me know if anyone lives in orange county! good luck to all Erin P orange county, CA Lee 07/28/2008 Hi to everyone from Sierra Tuscon I have been sober now for close to 2 years and I have never been happier. It has been a very difficult year for me and I just found out this weekend I am able to attend the reunion. The feelings that are inside of me are those of excitment, renewal, and that I am going back home. Like so many it was Sierra Tucson that I was born again. Margit M. 07/27/2008 Sept- Dec 2006 On July 22 I had 6 months sober and abstinent. I relapsed and couldn't get back up so returned to treatment-to the facility I went to for extended care after S.T. I'm living in Orange County. I can't go to the reunion. I went last year and had a beautiful time. email: margit.carlson@gmail.com Jean R 07/10/2008 Almost one year ago, and thanks to the support I got from one friend and the inspiration I got from another friend who had shared with me her experiences in ST -- in the Big Book it is referred to as the miracle of an alcoholic talking to another alcoholic - - I checked in ST. Just before arriving, like most of us, I read the board "Expect A Miracle". I was skeptical. I did not know. Thirty days later, after a stay that changed my life forever, while leaving the compound I read "You are a miracle". At that point I knew it was possible. Since then my life and the way I conduct myself have changed dramatically: from hiding in lies, deception and various compulsive behaviors, I veered towards honesty, humility, self love, and love for life (that I no longer had when I entered in ST). For all the gifts I received in ST, for all the tools I developed at ST, for the kindness, for the compassion, for the care I got from all staff members, therapists, doctors, and other patients I say thank you from the bottom of my heart. It is with great emotion that I can honestly say that I am excited to return to ST almost one year after I left: I will return to the place where I learned to live and embrace life. I look forward to seeing you all to share those unforgettable moments that build us all. Janet S. 07/10/2008 Wow! Let the countdown begin! I am so excited to get to the reunion to recharge. It is amazing how I anticipate this event every year. It serves as such an enhancement to my sobriety, serenity and life's journey. The opportunity gives me more chance for growth in one weekend than months of any other tool. Thanks again for all of your work Tim and Patty and I am feeling joy, peace and comfort coming my way moving toward this event. Michelle Gr. 07/09/2008 G'day! I just reached my one year on June 26th. It has been a tough journey but I am very proud of how far I have come. Although I still have a long way to go, I am feeling hopeful. Absent for so long, it feels great. I attended ST in May 07 and relapsed at the end of June. I have been wearing a ring I bought at ST ever since. It simply says "Hope". On by bad days I find myself twisting it and it gives me comfort as I remember my time at ST and the amazing people I met. The memories get me through that tough day and onto the next. I am contemplating coming out for the reunion. If you know me and are going, let me know. Love, Michelle Gr Matt L. 07/07/2008 Thank you Sierra Tucson! Yesterday was the one year anniversary of being eating disorder free. Sierra Tucson saved my life. Yesterday I was driving from Tucson (Where I go to school) to Scottdale (Where my family lives). during the drive I realized that I had done a COMPLETE 180 in my life. Just one year ago, I was driving on the opposite side of the highway, coming down to Tucson from Scottsdale to check into Sierra Tucson. I never thought I would be healthy and happy. There are still the battles and struggles, but everyday life gets better. I entered treatment shortly after my 20th birthday and I know I would not have made it to my 21st had I continued on my destructive path. God Bless, Matt L. Scottsdale, AZ Erica M. 06/14/2008 Hey all...Erica M., previously Erica D. from May 2004. Is there anyone in Jacksonville, FL? Tiffany S. 06/12/2008 Hello Sierra Tucson people, I was there from Oct-Nov 2004. I have 3 1/2 years sobriety, one day at a time. What a miracle! Anyone who wants to chat recovery is always welcome to contact me. I don't check this board as often as I'd like, but I do check my emails. If you're struggling, just remember "this, too, shall pass". I pray every morning that my HP helps me love myself the way that He loves me. Sometimes it works, sometimes I'm just too tough on myself. I'll just keep on trying. Sending Light and Love, Tiff t.spilove@gmail.com Gail F 05/29/2008 5-29-08 TO ALL MY FRIENDS WHO CAME BEFORE, DURING AND AFTER ME, HERE IS A LITTLE OF "MY STORY" This is my first time visiting the message board since "my release" 12-06! DUH! what took me so long. I was reading the Newsletter and one thing led to another and here I am. I had also forgotten about the Monday Chats until just being reminded. I will try and remember to join next Monday. I usually go to an Alanon Meeting (Adult Child Focus) that night but will try and fit this in also. I am in Central Florida if anyone is in my area and would like to talk or e-mail (GPFlmg@aol.com) I was acared to death when I got to ST. I was one of the "Moody Blues" so I didn't have a chemical dependency. I have since realized my addiction is just as bad. Sometimes even more difficult to leave behind since it is not tangible. I'm trying and basically succeeding at not being co-dependent. It is VERY difficult as it involves my children and ex-husband who all have one disease or another, but are, unfortunately, in denial. (you can imagine who the "bad guy" is in my family now- yes the one with BOUNDARIES - ME). And I mean a divorce and 4 adult children who do not want to be involved in my life right now because since I'm not being co-dependent and have boundaries they believe I'm "controlling and manipulative" Who would have thought I'd go through all this work to be healthier and THEY DON'T GET IT!!!! OOPS! Another lesson for me, It just don't work that way, does it?!! When I thought I was my weakest and most pathetic self, I realize I WAS "courageous. I had the courage to be led gently to ST. ( I won't even get into all the things that happened between being led and getting there, that's a story in itself). When I saw the sign "EXPECT A MIRACLE" I read "MAGIC HAPPENS HERE" and I knew I was at the right place. To be very honest I really didn't know where I was. I didn't drink or take drugs so I thought going to a "treatment center" was kind of like going to a "Spa with Classes". My wonderful and kind Therapist, Brenda gently and with a laugh set me straight. She asked me if I realized what the little plastic name bracelet on my right hand meant. Yea, I think they are the same ones they put on people in hospitals!!! OH MY GOSH is that where I am? Sounds funny now, but it was true. I'm in my 50's with children and grandchildren and was petrified to get a "pink slip". All my years of growing up the "good girl" were showing up. So I got a "pink slip" on purpose. Guess what? I got a little talking to, but nothing BAD happened! Actually, it took one of the other residents to help set me straight. That's why I feel it's not just ST that gives us the miracle but ALL the People, like me, who were there for their miracle. All their coversations helped me, when they didn't even know it. I'm very grateful! I came up with a saying that is a slight variation from one we may all have heard.( one man's junk is another man's treasure to "ONE MAN'S GARBAGE IS ANOTHER MAN'S FOOD" (hopefully I haven't stolen this from anyone) Other people's garbage, gave me hope and food for thought. At ST I learned to be vulnerable, honest and most importantly that it was OK to cry. (boy I took that one to the limit) Everyone was and no one looked at me funny. It felt so good. I didn't have to "Pretend". By the way the first book I read when I got there , waiting for whatever happened next was"I'm Tired of Pretending". It was the BEST book I've read (and I've probably read more self-help books that some of the Help! To be very honest I took (yes stole) the book. I rationalized that for the money I spent at ST they wouldn't be too upset if I took one little book. Like my Sister said when she took $5 from our Aunt's drawer, "but She had lots more") I have passed it on to many others, with promises of torture if not returned. I wish, knowing what I know now, that I could have the experience of ST all over again. I would have let myself just"BE" and extract more of all the good things I held back from because I was afraid. This must be a God thing today, because I just got a call from a woman who was at ST the same time I was. I wrote in her journal and she wrote in mine but that was our last communication until today. She left a message! I will call her back. She wondered if I remembered her and yes, I most certainly do - Heather! The reason I didn't answer is that I was feeling a little sorry for myself and having a slight crying jag, at that particular moment. ( they are much less and further in between now) Does God work in mysterious ways or not!!! Am I right where I am supposed to be or what! Usually, I wait for answers and expect they will come in my timing and my image. If I just "Let Go and Let God" I find they do come. I just have to be aware of the form in which they are arriving. I love all of you, even if we have never met. I feel we all have a chosen bond with one another! Health and Recovery Gail F Jessica S. 05/19/2008 5/19/08 Wanted everyone to know I miss Sierra Tucson so much. It changed my life, actually, you saved my life. All of you, staff and patients alike. I would be dead right now if it wasn't for Sierra Tucson. Now I'm just adjusting to the real world and am having a little bit of a problem. I'm fine, but I want the company of the people of Sierra Tucson. If anyone would like to chat, please feel free to call me at 248 224 1815 Jessica S.--Bloomfield Hills, MI-- April/May 2008 LYNN F. 05/01/2008 To all my ST friends who were with me from June24—July 24, 2007, I was the one there learning how to live without killing myself. ST was the greatest kickstart to my new life and you all had a big part in it as well...so one big THANK YOU, esp. to Kathleen from Scotland, Stephanie, Sandra, and so many others I can't remember the names of. Since my release I have been faithfully attending all therapy and psychiatric meetings assigned to me, sometimes twice a week. I believe consistency and honesty in my therapy have helped me progress to the point where I can look at the person who came to ST as someone else. I know why she did what she did and I can feel compassion for her, but I know she no longer is me. There are still days when I'm down, but I've learned what ropes to throw myself! All this started with ST, and for that I will be eternally greatful. I've read a lot of quotes here and I'd like to leave my favorite: "The Truth will set you free." May we all be on our journey of seeking the truth and being free. Brandon M. 04/24/2008 Hello fellow ST Alum. I was lucky enought to find ST in June-July of 2001, a few months shy of my 20th Birthday. I am sure the next B-Day would have been my last. Im truly grateful for my experience and God willing, Jan of 09, will be 7 years clean. If anyone is in the Orlando area or Florid in general, feel free to contact me. 407-257-1382. "Grateful addicts don't use", "Dont use no matter what". Life is Good. Cynthia P 04/21/2008 Hi Diana, I miss you and know you are in wonderful hands. You are in my prayers. Love, Cynthia Erin S 03/24/2008 I just wanted to try and encourage everyone to take advantage of the Monday night chat sessions with Tim and Patty. I know sometimes it's hard to find time in our busy lives...but I have been finding it so helpful. I would hate to so it get cancelled. To me, I have found it just as helpful as attending any meeting I've ever been too. My opinion is that we are not on the road to recovery alone, and we as survivers always have an obligation to those who face the same challanges...no matter what they are. I wanted to add a few more things to the image board that I find helpful. This above all: to thine own self be true.~William Shakespeare The past couple of weeks I have been pondering what key phrases were directed at me during my stay at ST. The very first thing that came to my mind was how it seemed like everyone kept saying to me"Trust your intuition, and pay careful attention to your anger" they told me my intution was usually dead on accurate but that at that time, I chose to ignore all the red flags that kept leading me right back to the same types of self-destruction, self sabatoge and toxic relationships. And by far the best advice I was ever given; besides never give up, was that anything, anything in life that is worth fixing is fixable. Take good care. |
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