Reading Skills for Today's Adults

A Piece of My Life

Today is my twenty-fifth birthday. I’m sitting at a desk at Minn-West College in Granite Falls, MN. The reason I’m in Granite Falls is because of Project Turnabout. I’m a recovering drug addict and alcoholic.

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I came for treatment at Project Turnabout on September 23, 2004. This is my fourth treatment center. It is here that I believe I’ve finally found the tools I need to remain sober. I now know that I’m the one who needs to do the work to be successful in my sobriety.

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My life has been filled with a lot of pain and hurt—so have the lives of family and friends who love and care about me. I never thought I was a drug addict or alcoholic. In fact, my intentions were to be a law student and to make something of my life. However, as a result of my seven-year use of drugs and alcohol, I’ve spent time in jail and treatment centers and have suffered two overdoses. 

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Addiction is a disease that often puts people in jail, treatment centers, or cemeteries. I’m fortunate to have come to Project Turnabout. I’ve accepted my disease and have learned how to manage it. I have to thank my family, case workers, counselors, and peers. They have helped me save my life. Without them, I don’t know where I’d be right now. 

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I’m very grateful to have been given another chance at life. I aspire to be someone who can help and teach other addicts the same information that I have learned. I want to share my story in order to help others.