Miracle Year

Hi there! My name is Alli and I am a grateful recovering addict.

I knew I had a problem years before I stepped foot into Mountainside. I thought I could “fix” or “control” it and tried EVERYTHING. In time, I became withdrawn from my own life. My relationships with family and friends were suffering and I no longer recognized the image staring back at me in the mirror. I was broken and defeated, with no idea what this gift of desperation was about to give me. On June 21, 2020, I surrendered to my addiction and began taking my life back.

My first two weeks at Mountainside felt like summer camp. I had laughed more than I had in years. There was something so validating about being surrounded by people who thought like me and understood what I’ve been through to get to where I was. My last two weeks welcomed the hard work of looking within – looking at what I was covering up for almost 10 years. This is where the healing began.

Upon leaving, I decided to take the suggestions seriously and do the next right thing. I went to local meetings and started growing my sober network. I brought my family in on my recovery and began living an honest life. I got a great sponsor I look up to and learn from every day. Before I knew it, the days started adding up and I was fortunate enough to celebrate my first miracle year with my family and close friends. My relationships are stronger than ever, and my heart is so full of gratitude.

I have been so inspired by this journey and those I’ve met along the way. This has not only encouraged me to stay clean but to go back to school to become a Certified Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor to help the next person. If someone would have told me a year and a half ago that all this was waiting for me once I asked for help, I wouldn’t have believed it! I am so proud to be a part of this community and owe a lot of it to Mountainside!

Thank you for reading and best of luck on your journey!

Alumni Spotlight

All Things Recovery with Alison D.

Recovery for Alison seemed like a rocky climb up a steep mountain, but through her bravery and dedication, she came out on top. Alison goes in depth about all aspects of recovery from starting a new Etsy business, to her passion for writing and reading, and her appreciation for the invaluable relationships she built at Mountainside.

Read More

Staff Highlight: Justin C.

Hey there, Mountainside alumni!

This is Justin from Mountainside’s Extended Care program coming to you from the waterfall on Mountainside’s beautiful campus. This has always been a favorite spot of mine regardless of time of year, but it is especially scenic during fall here at the base of the Berkshires. As we approach the holiday season, a tough time of year for many, remember you are not alone on this journey. Get out to a meeting or connect with someone in your network and of course, you can always reach out to your Mountainside family to connect whether that be through an Alumni Ambassador, by attending one of our many great Alumni events or by getting on Mountainside’s newest app. Stay connected!