When I walked through the doors of The Milestone House, I was searching for more than sobriety—I was searching for a new way to live. I spent 13 months as a resident, and those months changed every part of who I am. Today, I have the privilege of giving back as the Alumni Coordinator, helping others begin the same journey that forever changed my life.

At Milestone, I learned what recovery truly means. It wasn't just about putting down drugs or alcohol; it was about rebuilding my life from the inside out. I learned how to love myself when I didn't think I deserved it. I learned how to forgive myself for my past and extend that same forgiveness to others. Recovery taught me that healing isn't a destination—it's a daily commitment.

One of the greatest lessons I learned is that the greatest gift in life is helping another person. The men and women who poured into me did so with unconditional love before they even really knew me. They believed in me when I couldn't believe in myself, and that example continues to shape the way I live today. I strive to lead with love in every aspect of my life. I'm far from perfect, and I still struggle, but every morning I wake up with another opportunity to try again. Milestone showed me what that kind of life looks like.

Recovery also gave me something I never thought I would have again—my family. Not only was I able to repair those relationships, but they became stronger than I ever imagined. I got my family back tenfold. Along the way, I also gained another family through the people I met at Milestone. The friendships and bonds I formed here are ones I can't imagine living without.

Through the 12 Steps, I found purpose, accountability, and a spiritual foundation that helps me stay sober one day at a time. Milestone taught me how to become a better man mentally, physically, emotionally, and spiritually.

Today, I am raising money for our Harvest Healing 2026 fundraiser because I know firsthand what Milestone makes possible. I am living proof that recovery works when people are given hope, support, and a chance to change. Every dollar raised helps provide that same opportunity to someone who is walking through our doors, searching for the same hope that once saved my life. Supporting Harvest Healing means investing in more stories like mine—and giving others the chance to discover that recovery is not only possible, but life-changing.