 1-800-842-4487 |
|
|
Submit a message. |
 |
Sierra Tucson's Message Board
helps alumni stay connected with each other after treatment. If you
would like to post a message of hope and encouragement or just say
"Hi," please submit your message or response. (All messages are reviewed
and approved by Sierra Tucson staff prior to posting.) Michelle B. 11/30/2008 Five years ago today, I was in the process of recovery at Sierra Tucson (Nov-Dec 2003) for an eating disorder Now, five years later, I find myself with a masters degree and engaged to the man I love who stood by me while I was at Sierra Tucson and through all of my treatment. I still struggle from time to time, but I can look at what I have accomplished to get me through each day. I want to send my well wishes to everyone who was with me at ST during my stay and to all alumni who continue to fight through the long battle of recovery. For those of you who were at ST with me-"I feel like a woman"-Shania Twain Natalie 11/27/2008 Happy Thanksgiving to all who were at ST on Thanksgiving 2007. you all were there, each one for a specific, hand- chosen reason. and i was/am the greatful reciepent of so many of those intimate moments that healed. it may have been a smile, or a kindness and warmth in someones eyes...it may have been a heart-felt exchange of shared stories on the pathway to the smoke area at night with the stars shinning over head in the cold, crisp air....how often i wished that i smoked. :) thats crazy, how funny..never before have i thought that .but the community of nurturing family you all provided and shared in those common puffs and clouds of smoke was nourishing to the soul. for we are wounded in community and we are healed in community. it may have been the friend who came and got me to walk the track ...singing sweet old hymns her grandmother sang to her..going into my ears, thet did, pulling me back from where ever i was and gounding me again to the face of God. held, i was indeed. in the setting of an encircled haven covered by the hand of God in misty morning breezes of rain...cool and crisp, how her voice would flow and nourish me, carrying me, it was. and so happy his favorite was found:) ps the ect worked, i was resurrected from the dead. remember, when you have faith, every thing is possible:) and also remember LOVE HURTS. with love, many hugs and smiles always. blessings to all, natalie. mts.org ps again, we are miraculously still a family again. Joan (Joni) 10/29/2008 Anyone who was there May thru June, 1993, eating disorder area, please, please, contact me at jmor329@aol.com. I think about my group and others every day. Keith K, thank you, thank you, thank you. I am whole. Joni Jeff 10/29/2008 I put together a website (also for phones) to be a database of meetings around the world with listings for a city or part of a city organized by time also with maps and directions. The idea is that at any given time you can pull up a list and a map of the closest meetings starting soon. The address is http://maatings.org and went up on Monday. I'll be adding more cities as I go along but pls let me know if u would use this and if you'd like your hometown up there or if u can help. Reach me at maatings@gmail.com. Courtney M 10/14/2008 I was at ST back in 2005 after an intervention and no awareness as to why I was there. At times I have just wanted to check back in. Today at 27, I am filled with Sierra Tucson, it comes up for me everywhere. and very little did I know when I was there that it would play such a huge role in my future recovery and my entire life. I am in the fellowship here in Los Angeles, I have 16 days and feel blessed to finally be ready and have this awareness. These years I have carried a library of books around from ST and I am using them NOW and loving them, I have my special rock that I hold on to always as a reminder of ST, but the experience is rooted deep within me. I have a wonderful friendship with my roomate from the lodge. what a spiritual experience I am having, It has been a long road back to this place i belong and im staying sober. Thank you for sending me these messages that have given me direction when I have been off course. I can now really be a part of that miracle you all were talkin' about! Thank you and God bless. Tim McLeod 10/06/2008 Brian, Congratulations on your reocvery! 4 Years is HUGE!!! Thank you for your message, the ST staff will be blessed by your comments. Brian L 10/06/2008 I checked into Sierra Tucson October 4, 2004 and yesterday (Oct 5) I celebrated four years clean and sober. I will never be able to say enough about my experience at ST nor can I say thank you enough times. The last four years have had their share of ups and downs however I am so grateful I was able to face those with a clear mind and recovery supporting me. THANK YOU ST and all my best to the staff that make it so special. darcy g 09/09/2008 hello to all st alumni, I was there in Aug. 2005 and i just celebrated 3 years of sobriety! As so many of us have exclaimed "ST saved my life"! In my case, it actually did more than that... I gave birth to my second child in sobriety recently! I'd love to connect and reconnect with ST alums... darcy@glidewellbuilding.com Peggy L. 08/24/2008 Hello S Tucson - To the past and present I have 11 years August 15th. My oldest daughter was also married that weekend, It's was & is "amazing" because I was there in mind , body and sober..... thank you for the life I've been able to live. keep the circle growing.... My life is totally a miracle , I 'am blessed. Brittany W 08/20/2008 Hey everybody I just wanted to check in and let everyone know how amazing life has been pos-Sierra! I was admitted February 6th 2008 and it was the best decision i've ever made for myself. Sierra Tucson truly saved my life. I turned 23 years old during my stay at Sierra and being young in recovery was a very scary thing for me in the beginning, but I was very lucky to have had met many amazing young adults(Shoutout to TEAM CHANDLER), many of whom I am still in contact with to this day. My ST friends helped me to realize that getting sober early in life is truly a blessing! I am coming up on 6 months sober and I am living a life I only dreamed of before! At the reccomendation of the one and only Dave Chandler, I came to Orange County for a 90-day aftercare program (Safe Harbor) and after completing the program I now live in a sober living home with 12 amazing young women who are not only my friends but my support group and best friends. I would love to connect with anyone who is in Orange County (coffee, meeting?)! In closing, Sierra Tucson (aka Camp Sobriety) was not only a place for me to begin my journey in sobriety, it was a place where I was able to get to know myself again. The staff and the community truly changed my life forever and I will be forever grateful. BrittanyMignon@aol.com Jamie R. 08/11/2008 I just wanted to THANK Tim McLeod and Patty Reyna SO much for this past weekend! The was my second ST Reunion and I honestly didn't think it could've topped last years! Well, it did! It was amazing in every way shape and form! It recharged my batteries and helped me realize that none of us are EVER alone! As time goes by you tend to forget the warmth and PURE energy that ST has! If I needed a hug or someone to talk with that TRULY understood my pain, all I had to do was look to my left, right, infront and in back of me and there was ALWAYS someone there!!! Anyway, I REALLY encourage any of you to come next year!!! Recovery is NOT perfect! So if you're struggling what a better time to reach out to all of us that "get it"! I know that through my recovery I've learned the best way I can I live my life is from a NON- judgemental place! We are all beautiful spirits and are WORTH being loved! I think what really had the most impact on me during the weekend was Sunday morning at ST right after we gave our coins out to the patients, an alumni gave a coin to a girl in the ED track who than began to cry and ended up going to talk to a therapist. I was in the ED track when I was there and I asked a couple of the girls if she was alright, and they said it was her second day there! Wow, did that take my breath away! I can remember that feeling of OH MY GOD what in the world I am I doing here! I don't think any of us can forget all of those emotions running wild through out our entire mind and body! I immediatley wanted to wrap my arms around her and let her know that is will get better if you want it to! It's not always going to be easy, but don't give up! It really is possible to have your life back!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! You just have to trust the process! Since she left, all I can do is let go and know that ST can save her life, because it saved mine! To those of you that made it, it was an amazing weekend and awesome to meet all of you! For those of you that didn't make it, it's never too late! With Love and Peace, Jamie R. Leawood, KS Linda C, Feb 2007 08/09/2008 Hello! I am moving to Washington DC from FL...wondering if I can connect. ST was a livesaver for me, pulling me out of my trauma and back into a full life. Wish I could attend the reunion! Lisa B...contact me!! Jana T 07/29/2008 Oh I am so bummed that I am not able to come to the reunion this year. It is one of the best experiences that I have ever had. I love Sierra Tucson. I now reside in Orange County, and would love to connect, reconnect with anyone from Sierra. Nov 2 will mark 6 years sober god willing. I will miss everyone this year. Love, Jana janatriplett@gmail.com Erin P 07/28/2008 i just want to see if there is young adults who lives in orange county . i was in ST in november to december 2007 and it was the best thing that has ever happened to me. i met so many amazing people with various stories. i just moved to california from texas for school. I was one of the youngest girls there but even then everyone made me feel so comfortable as soon as i got there. i have been sober for the most part with a few struggles here and there. i bought a ring there with 2 other people that says love on it and ive worn it ever since to remind me of the amazing people i met there. i still keep in touch with the ones i was closest to. i live near sober living by the sea and its such a beautiful place to go afterwards. i wish every day i could go back to ST and learn even more and get even more time with all the amazing people. good luck to all of you and let me know if anyone lives in orange county! good luck to all Erin P orange county, CA Lee 07/28/2008 Hi to everyone from Sierra Tuscon I have been sober now for close to 2 years and I have never been happier. It has been a very difficult year for me and I just found out this weekend I am able to attend the reunion. The feelings that are inside of me are those of excitment, renewal, and that I am going back home. Like so many it was Sierra Tucson that I was born again. Margit M. 07/27/2008 Sept- Dec 2006 On July 22 I had 6 months sober and abstinent. I relapsed and couldn't get back up so returned to treatment-to the facility I went to for extended care after S.T. I'm living in Orange County. I can't go to the reunion. I went last year and had a beautiful time. email: margit.carlson@gmail.com Jean R 07/10/2008 Almost one year ago, and thanks to the support I got from one friend and the inspiration I got from another friend who had shared with me her experiences in ST -- in the Big Book it is referred to as the miracle of an alcoholic talking to another alcoholic - - I checked in ST. Just before arriving, like most of us, I read the board "Expect A Miracle". I was skeptical. I did not know. Thirty days later, after a stay that changed my life forever, while leaving the compound I read "You are a miracle". At that point I knew it was possible. Since then my life and the way I conduct myself have changed dramatically: from hiding in lies, deception and various compulsive behaviors, I veered towards honesty, humility, self love, and love for life (that I no longer had when I entered in ST). For all the gifts I received in ST, for all the tools I developed at ST, for the kindness, for the compassion, for the care I got from all staff members, therapists, doctors, and other patients I say thank you from the bottom of my heart. It is with great emotion that I can honestly say that I am excited to return to ST almost one year after I left: I will return to the place where I learned to live and embrace life. I look forward to seeing you all to share those unforgettable moments that build us all. Janet S. 07/10/2008 Wow! Let the countdown begin! I am so excited to get to the reunion to recharge. It is amazing how I anticipate this event every year. It serves as such an enhancement to my sobriety, serenity and life's journey. The opportunity gives me more chance for growth in one weekend than months of any other tool. Thanks again for all of your work Tim and Patty and I am feeling joy, peace and comfort coming my way moving toward this event. Michelle Gr. 07/09/2008 G'day! I just reached my one year on June 26th. It has been a tough journey but I am very proud of how far I have come. Although I still have a long way to go, I am feeling hopeful. Absent for so long, it feels great. I attended ST in May 07 and relapsed at the end of June. I have been wearing a ring I bought at ST ever since. It simply says "Hope". On by bad days I find myself twisting it and it gives me comfort as I remember my time at ST and the amazing people I met. The memories get me through that tough day and onto the next. I am contemplating coming out for the reunion. If you know me and are going, let me know. Love, Michelle Gr Matt L. 07/07/2008 Thank you Sierra Tucson! Yesterday was the one year anniversary of being eating disorder free. Sierra Tucson saved my life. Yesterday I was driving from Tucson (Where I go to school) to Scottdale (Where my family lives). during the drive I realized that I had done a COMPLETE 180 in my life. Just one year ago, I was driving on the opposite side of the highway, coming down to Tucson from Scottsdale to check into Sierra Tucson. I never thought I would be healthy and happy. There are still the battles and struggles, but everyday life gets better. I entered treatment shortly after my 20th birthday and I know I would not have made it to my 21st had I continued on my destructive path. God Bless, Matt L. Scottsdale, AZ Erica M. 06/14/2008 Hey all...Erica M., previously Erica D. from May 2004. Is there anyone in Jacksonville, FL? Tiffany S. 06/12/2008 Hello Sierra Tucson people, I was there from Oct-Nov 2004. I have 3 1/2 years sobriety, one day at a time. What a miracle! Anyone who wants to chat recovery is always welcome to contact me. I don't check this board as often as I'd like, but I do check my emails. If you're struggling, just remember "this, too, shall pass". I pray every morning that my HP helps me love myself the way that He loves me. Sometimes it works, sometimes I'm just too tough on myself. I'll just keep on trying. Sending Light and Love, Tiff t.spilove@gmail.com Gail F 05/29/2008 5-29-08 TO ALL MY FRIENDS WHO CAME BEFORE, DURING AND AFTER ME, HERE IS A LITTLE OF "MY STORY" This is my first time visiting the message board since "my release" 12-06! DUH! what took me so long. I was reading the Newsletter and one thing led to another and here I am. I had also forgotten about the Monday Chats until just being reminded. I will try and remember to join next Monday. I usually go to an Alanon Meeting (Adult Child Focus) that night but will try and fit this in also. I am in Central Florida if anyone is in my area and would like to talk or e-mail (GPFlmg@aol.com) I was acared to death when I got to ST. I was one of the "Moody Blues" so I didn't have a chemical dependency. I have since realized my addiction is just as bad. Sometimes even more difficult to leave behind since it is not tangible. I'm trying and basically succeeding at not being co-dependent. It is VERY difficult as it involves my children and ex-husband who all have one disease or another, but are, unfortunately, in denial. (you can imagine who the "bad guy" is in my family now- yes the one with BOUNDARIES - ME). And I mean a divorce and 4 adult children who do not want to be involved in my life right now because since I'm not being co-dependent and have boundaries they believe I'm "controlling and manipulative" Who would have thought I'd go through all this work to be healthier and THEY DON'T GET IT!!!! OOPS! Another lesson for me, It just don't work that way, does it?!! When I thought I was my weakest and most pathetic self, I realize I WAS "courageous. I had the courage to be led gently to ST. ( I won't even get into all the things that happened between being led and getting there, that's a story in itself). When I saw the sign "EXPECT A MIRACLE" I read "MAGIC HAPPENS HERE" and I knew I was at the right place. To be very honest I really didn't know where I was. I didn't drink or take drugs so I thought going to a "treatment center" was kind of like going to a "Spa with Classes". My wonderful and kind Therapist, Brenda gently and with a laugh set me straight. She asked me if I realized what the little plastic name bracelet on my right hand meant. Yea, I think they are the same ones they put on people in hospitals!!! OH MY GOSH is that where I am? Sounds funny now, but it was true. I'm in my 50's with children and grandchildren and was petrified to get a "pink slip". All my years of growing up the "good girl" were showing up. So I got a "pink slip" on purpose. Guess what? I got a little talking to, but nothing BAD happened! Actually, it took one of the other residents to help set me straight. That's why I feel it's not just ST that gives us the miracle but ALL the People, like me, who were there for their miracle. All their coversations helped me, when they didn't even know it. I'm very grateful! I came up with a saying that is a slight variation from one we may all have heard.( one man's junk is another man's treasure to "ONE MAN'S GARBAGE IS ANOTHER MAN'S FOOD" (hopefully I haven't stolen this from anyone) Other people's garbage, gave me hope and food for thought. At ST I learned to be vulnerable, honest and most importantly that it was OK to cry. (boy I took that one to the limit) Everyone was and no one looked at me funny. It felt so good. I didn't have to "Pretend". By the way the first book I read when I got there , waiting for whatever happened next was"I'm Tired of Pretending". It was the BEST book I've read (and I've probably read more self-help books that some of the Help! To be very honest I took (yes stole) the book. I rationalized that for the money I spent at ST they wouldn't be too upset if I took one little book. Like my Sister said when she took $5 from our Aunt's drawer, "but She had lots more") I have passed it on to many others, with promises of torture if not returned. I wish, knowing what I know now, that I could have the experience of ST all over again. I would have let myself just"BE" and extract more of all the good things I held back from because I was afraid. This must be a God thing today, because I just got a call from a woman who was at ST the same time I was. I wrote in her journal and she wrote in mine but that was our last communication until today. She left a message! I will call her back. She wondered if I remembered her and yes, I most certainly do - Heather! The reason I didn't answer is that I was feeling a little sorry for myself and having a slight crying jag, at that particular moment. ( they are much less and further in between now) Does God work in mysterious ways or not!!! Am I right where I am supposed to be or what! Usually, I wait for answers and expect they will come in my timing and my image. If I just "Let Go and Let God" I find they do come. I just have to be aware of the form in which they are arriving. I love all of you, even if we have never met. I feel we all have a chosen bond with one another! Health and Recovery Gail F Jessica S. 05/19/2008 5/19/08 Wanted everyone to know I miss Sierra Tucson so much. It changed my life, actually, you saved my life. All of you, staff and patients alike. I would be dead right now if it wasn't for Sierra Tucson. Now I'm just adjusting to the real world and am having a little bit of a problem. I'm fine, but I want the company of the people of Sierra Tucson. If anyone would like to chat, please feel free to call me at 248 224 1815 Jessica S.--Bloomfield Hills, MI-- April/May 2008 LYNN F. 05/01/2008 To all my ST friends who were with me from June24—July 24, 2007, I was the one there learning how to live without killing myself. ST was the greatest kickstart to my new life and you all had a big part in it as well...so one big THANK YOU, esp. to Kathleen from Scotland, Stephanie, Sandra, and so many others I can't remember the names of. Since my release I have been faithfully attending all therapy and psychiatric meetings assigned to me, sometimes twice a week. I believe consistency and honesty in my therapy have helped me progress to the point where I can look at the person who came to ST as someone else. I know why she did what she did and I can feel compassion for her, but I know she no longer is me. There are still days when I'm down, but I've learned what ropes to throw myself! All this started with ST, and for that I will be eternally greatful. I've read a lot of quotes here and I'd like to leave my favorite: "The Truth will set you free." May we all be on our journey of seeking the truth and being free. |
Chemical Dependency | Alcoholism | Eating Disorders | Trauma/Abuse | Sexual Compulsivity | Depression | Anxiety | Pain Management | Gambling
Home | Contact Us | Private Chat | Self-Evaluation | Event Registration | CRC Health
Toll-free from U.S.A.: 1-800-842-4487
Freephone from U.K.: 0800 891166
© Copyright 2006 Sierra Tucson, Inc. - Since 1983, Sierra Tucson has grown from a drug rehab center to a comprehensive inpatient treatment facility. We help individuals and families overcome addiction and behavioral disorders and rebuild their lives. Recovery means a better way of life!