Agency: Calgary Alpha House Society
Please note: Names and identifying information have been changed to protect anonymity.
Recovery has opened me up to so many new experiences I never would have explored otherwise. I’m proud of who I’ve become, and I’m excited for the future.
Jane’s journey to sobriety is a powerful testament to the strength of the human spirit. It all began at a breaking point, where the physical and emotional toll of addiction had become unbearable. Jane’s struggles had led her to a place of homelessness, loss, and despair. She had lost everything—her dignity, relationships, and sense of self—and was spiraling into destruction. But in a moment of profound darkness, a stranger brought her to the doorstep of Alpha House, and that was the beginning of a life-changing transformation.
“I was at a point where I couldn’t go on living the way I had been,” Jane reflects. “It was clear that if I didn’t change, I was going to lose everything. That’s when I made the decision to take a chance on recovery.”
Jane’s path to recovery was not without its challenges, but it was supported by critical resources that allowed her to rebuild from the ground up. Providence House played a pivotal role in her recovery journey, offering more than just a safe place to live—it provided the stability, structure, and unwavering support she needed to stay focused on her goals. “Having my basic needs met, like a safe place to live and access to food, allowed me to focus on my recovery. I didn’t have to worry about survival anymore,” she says. “The staff were always there, guiding me through meetings, helping with appointments, and offering hands-on support when things felt overwhelming.”
One year of sobriety later, Jane’s life has been transformed in ways she never thought possible. “Things are so much more manageable now. I wake up feeling peaceful instead of overwhelmed by chaos. I no longer have to lie, cheat, or steal to survive,” she shares. “I’m building a life based on honesty, and that peace of mind is priceless.”
Jane’s journey has been marked by personal growth and healing. She has developed new habits that continue to support her sobriety. “Daily meetings, meditation, and the Wellbriety program have been life-changing,” she explains. “They’ve helped me stay grounded and connected to my recovery. Plus, volunteering has given me a sense of purpose and allowed me to give back to the community that supported me.”
The sense of community at Providence House has played a major role in Jane’s recovery. The connections she has made with fellow participants and staff have become an invaluable support network. “Being a part of the community is so important,” she says. “We all have similar goals, and it’s comforting to know that we’re in this together.”
As Jane continues on her recovery journey, she celebrates each milestone with gratitude. For smaller victories, she treats herself to special dinners, and for bigger milestones, like her one-year sobriety anniversary, she celebrates with “Birthday Meetings” at Providence—complete with cake, reflection, and shared joy with those who truly understand the significance of these accomplishments.
For others just starting their recovery journey, Jane offers heartfelt advice: “Trust the process. Don’t be afraid to take that first step, even if it feels scary. There will be challenges, but the rewards are so worth it. Stay committed, stay open to learning, and reach out for support when you need it.”
Through her hard work, dedication, and the support of Providence House, Jane has found new passions and interests, including meditation, Indigenous programming, and even learning to sew traditional Indigenous items like ribbon skirts and star blankets. “Recovery has opened me up to so many new experiences I never would have explored otherwise,” she says. “I’m proud of who I’ve become, and I’m excited for the future.”
Today, Jane’s journey is a story of strength, hope, and perseverance. Her life has been rebuilt, piece by piece, and she is now a beacon of inspiration to others who are walking their own path to recovery. Through her dedication and the support of her community, Jane has not only reclaimed her life but is also helping others along the way.
