Who am I today? I’ve been in the publishing field for more than 21 years. I am executive editor of a small independent publisher that publishes books on addiction treatment, recovery, and behavioral health care topics. I could not be doing what I’m doing today without being in recovery.

I’ve come a long way from where I was. After a series of tragic losses during my teenage years, I sought the empty darkness alcohol and other drugs provided. My drugs were all that I had left after 15 years of blackouts.

When I woke up in restraints after my third and last overdose, I knew I could no longer continue using. I have not used alcohol or other drugs since November 30, 1982. I completed inpatient treatment, where I was introduced to recovery and the 12 steps. Then, I embarked on a remarkable journey that unfolded beyond anything I had ever dreamed of before. I was working as a nurse when I achieved recovery, and after some time in recovery, I realized I didn’t want to be a nurse when I grew up. I wanted to write, so I went back to school and got a degree in creative writing.

Working the 12 steps helped me repair my damaged relationship with my parents, who are now deceased, but each lived long enough to see me in recovery. I still attend 12-step meetings on a regular basis, sponsor women, and volunteer at a nonprofit recovery advocacy organization. The life I live today is only because of my commitment to recovery and my belief in the power of the 12 steps.