My name is Corentia C.
I have been struggling with addiction for over 20 years. Finding a solution to my disease has been one of the hardest battles of my life, and as a veteran, I've faced some hard battles before.
Over the past year and a half, I've worked to stay clean and sober through ups, downs, lapses, and relapses. Even through all of that, I am determined to overcome my addiction by any means necessary.
I know that if I ever stop fighting for my sobriety, my life will quickly go back to the way it used to be. I never want that to happen. The life I have today is something I can be proud of, and it's a life my children and family can be proud of as well.
Even though I've had shortcomings while trying to stay sober, the people closest to me have seen the changes in me. They have noticed my growth, and that gives me hope that I am moving in the right direction.
Over the last year and a half, I've been to several rehabilitation centers. However, I never attended an Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP). I didn't take that next step after leaving rehab because I didn't see the point. It wasn't appealing to me, and I honestly didn't think I needed it.
That changed when I came to Northstar Recovery.
The time I've spent here with Amy, Michelle, and Rachel has been truly special and life-changing. These three women have been sober for a long time, and they are real. They are honest about their struggles, their recovery, and the work it takes to stay sober. I relate to them in so many ways, and that's what makes this IOP different.
I can't count the number of times I've sat in class listening to them speak, only to realize that what they were saying was exactly what I needed to hear. Their words hit home. Those are the lessons that stay with me when I leave and help me continue fighting for my sobriety.
They don't just teach from a book—they share their stories, their testimonies, how they got sober, and everything they've gained because they chose recovery. That gives me hope because I want what they have. I want a life built on honesty, peace, recovery, and purpose. Northstar Recovery is something truly special. I only wish there were more IOP programs with people as genuine, compassionate, and committed as Amy, Michelle, and Rachel. Their willingness to share their experience has made a real difference in my life, and I will always be grateful for everything they have done for me.
My name is Corentia C., and I am deeply grateful for Northstar Recovery. Thank you.