"You can't keep it unless you give it away." This tradition in the recovery community truly resonates with John. With 35 years of sobriety, he is proud to share his story and lend support to others who are battling addiction the way he did before he found Cedar House.
At Cedar House in 1984, John found comfort, care and compassion. That was a first for him. Growing up in a household laden with substance abuse and dependence, he found himself falling deep into addiction at a young age. Both of his parents were heavy drinkers. He lost his mother to alcoholism and witnessed his sister's struggles with drugs throughout his youth.
Fortunately, his sister learned about Cedar House and began the program. It wasn't long after she was admitted, that John called asking for help, too. He had been fired from his job and says,
At Cedar House in 1984, John found comfort, care and compassion. That was a first for him. Growing up in a household laden with substance abuse and dependence, he found himself falling deep into addiction at a young age. Both of his parents were heavy drinkers. He lost his mother to alcoholism and witnessed his sister's struggles with drugs throughout his youth.
Fortunately, his sister learned about Cedar House and began the program. It wasn't long after she was admitted, that John called asking for help, too. He had been fired from his job and says,
"I just couldn't take care of myself."That's when he began withdrawal management at Cedar House. During those challenging days of detox, John felt safe and secure knowing the compassionate staff were there by his side. He admits that when he entered the program, he was angry and lost. But after the first few weeks he found that the "structure, discipline and no-nonsense approach" really worked. He says,
"I had a complete rearrangement of my thoughts."John's willingness to not only seek help but also fully engage in the treatment program made his lifetime in recovery possible. He has continued to sit in the front row of AA meetings for 35 years remaining completely committed to staying clean and sober. He sponsors people in need and advises them to always stay active in the program. John carries with him deep gratitude for his Cedar House experience and a lasting legacy of compassion.