Going Beyond in Your Recovery

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I can’t quite pinpoint the moment when it happened. It was a gradual progression, but slowly I began feeling whole. Something inside of me changed. Things seemed clearer. I felt lighter. And regardless of what was going on around me I could only find the positive in anything and everything.

I began to realize what life was all about. I remember stepping into my new apartment for the first time in June 2017. I was alone for the first time in 10 years. The only piece of furniture I owned was a bed that a friend had given me. I would make breakfast each morning and sit on my stairs and come home each night after work and take a seat on my front step to watch the traffic go by. I thought to myself, I have everything I need. Nothing that would fill that space mattered. You see, I had found a place deep within my soul that felt pure joy.

Those who knew me ⎼ and even some strangers ⎼ began to comment on the way I carried myself. I was standing taller, taking care of my health, being positive, smiling for no reason at all, and exuding freedom.

I can’t explain how I reached this place, because to be honest, I don’t fully understand it. And I don’t need to. All I know is that I take each day for what it is. I don’t focus on my past and I look to the future with hope. I live my life for me. I surround myself with positive influences and continue to learn and explore something new each and every day.

My light was turned on and with that came my ability to go beyond my fears and to feel love beyond measure. Some call it spiritual enlightenment or awakening. I call it a gift.

I am so fortunate to be traveling to Mexico this month with a group of amazing alumni. This trip is all about the journey inward. Being able to share this experience with others provides me with an indescribable feeling.

If you aren’t able to join us in Mexico, don’t miss the opportunity to sign up for one the amazing events in May. Wellness is the key to wholeness.

Mountainside Kicks Off Family Support Group

At Mountainside, we are proud of all the strides you have made in your recovery. We also know that it is important for your loved ones to embark on their own recovery journey as well. Because of this, we have created our first ever Family Support Group, designed to help family and friends impacted by addiction to find their way back to their happiest, healthiest selves. Overseen by our experienced Family Wellness and Alumni teams, this group will offer your family and friends guidance, support, and an opportunity to meet others who have similar experiences.

We encourage you to invite your loved ones to attend. The first Family Support Group will meet Wednesday, May 7th at 6:30 PM at Mountainside Wilton (372 Danbury Rd.). To learn more, please email Tina Muller, Family Wellness Manager.

Welcome to the Team: Kendall Svanda

As the new Alumni Coordinator at Mountainside I wanted to share a little bit about who I am and why this job is important to me.

My struggles with addiction began in college and by the time I graduated, I was so dependent on substances that I didn’t know what life had to offer. Now being in recovery, I have found that I want to help others find their path.
I know how challenging life can seem at times, but more importantly, I know the potential to find true happiness and build positive experiences. I am honored to be a part of the Mountaiside alumni team. I look forward to personally speaking with all of you and building connections with each of you as members of the alumni family.

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Share Your Story to Win a Copy of The Recovering

Are you interested in empowering others with your story? Want to break down the stigma of addiction? If so, contact us to share your journey on our blog and receive a copy of Leslie Jamison’s powerful book.

The Recovering is a deeply personal exploration of how addiction and recovery shaped the author’s life as well as that of others. It is sharp, honest, and filled with piercing observations that are sure to leave a lasting impression.

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Alumni Share Night Dinner

Celebrate your recovery and inspire others at our Alumni Share Night Dinner ⎼ Sundays at 5PM

– Meet the current community
– Welcome the newest members of our alumni family
– Enjoy a delicious dinner together
– Attend the Alumni Share Night Meeting

This is a great opportunity to #GoBeyond, grow your support network, hear moving stories, and help those in early recovery.

To register, call Kendall Svanda, Alumni Coordinator, at 860 362 5243

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April Milestones

We are building a list of sobriety birthdays. If you’d like to have your recovery birthday featured in our newsletter, please contact [Jessica Dolan](mailto:jessica.dolan@Mountainside.com).

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Learn More

We want you to share your story and help us inspire others to #GoBeyond in their lives.

It’s simple, use your smartphone, tablet, or camera and record yourself answering the following questions:

– What does #GoBeyond mean to you?
– What are you doing or what have you done to #GoBeyond in your life?

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If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, Mountainside can help.
Click here or call (888) 833-4676 to speak with one of our addiction treatment experts.