From Frayed to Focused
Millie grew up in a loving home as the oldest of three children, supported by devoted parents and surrounded by community. “I was always very loving, always making sure my mom and dad were okay. Anything I put my mind to, I did very well,” she recalls. But early trauma and an undiagnosed mental health condition during her adolescence led her to self-medicate. What began as social drinking and drug use eventually spiraled into something far more destructive. After struggling with substance use for years, Millie hit her breaking point. She lost a high-paying job as a senior loan officer and found herself digging through old sneakers looking for remnants of crack cocaine. “That was my rock bottom,” she says. “I was on the floor, dirty, going through shoes. I just looked at myself and said, ‘What am I doing?’”
First Step, First Yes
That moment of clarity led Millie to pick up the phone and call First Step. Within two hours, she had a bed and was on her way. “That morning, I got down on my knees and told God, ‘I need help. I’m putting everything in your hands.’ I’d never done that before.” Millie has now been substance-free ever since. It has been 11 months and counting. This has not been without sacrifice. Millie’s son, now 21, had to grow up fast, working two jobs to keep their apartment afloat while Millie is in treatment. “I hurt him. I hurt my family. But I’m doing everything I can to make it right. I’m not messing around this time.” She credits Caz’s Somerset House as a major turning point in her journey. “This is exactly what I needed. I’m scheduling my own doctor’s appointments, managing my time, and I have freedom with accountability. Everyone here, including the counselors and the residents; they all have your back.”
A House and Community That Holds You
She found support not only in staff but in meaningful relationships with others in recovery. “My roommate in another program became my best friend. We still talk every day. It makes a difference knowing you’re not alone.” Millie’s recovery is grounded in structure, community, and spiritual growth. She attends regular NA and AA meetings, works closely with a sponsor, and reconnects with her family. “I talk to my parents every morning at 9 a.m. They never gave up on me, even when I put them through hell. I’m grateful for that every day.”
Hands Busy, Heart Quiet, Eyes on the Prize
Looking forward, Millie has a clear vision for her future. She’s planning to move to a rural area where she owns land, surrounded by supportive friends and away from triggers. She’s also pursuing a lifelong dream: getting her CDL license and becoming a tractor-trailer driver. “I’ve wanted to do this since I was 21. I’m finally focused, and ready to chase that dream.” Millie has also found unexpected peace and joy in crafting. “I crochet every day. It keeps me busy, focused, and sober. I’m working on a Buffalo Bills blanket right now,” she laughs. When asked what she would tell someone considering recovery, Millie’s answer is simple but powerful: “It’s a better life. I never imagined I could be this happy. It was a matter of life and death; and I chose life.”
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