A new life
I went to Hacienda Paradiso 18 months ago, after a long battle with addiction and an eating disorder that I had struggled with from a young age, which was affecting my attempts to stay clean and. sober. It was not my first time in rehab. From being picked up at the airport to saying goodbye on my last day, I was given a level of care, support, respect and guidance that I hadn't found anywhere before.
Past experience, however, had taught me that putting down substances and completing my time in rehab was only the very beginning - staying clean once I left was what it was all about.
And that is what I have done. Matt had the insight to suggest that I do some work around my eating disorder that I hadn't done before and that was a turning point in me dealing with my addictive behaviours as a whole. Since leaving the Hacienda (there were tears!), there have been ups and downs, because that is life, but I have followed the suggestions to the letter and used all the tools given to me by the Paradiso team and the result has not only been that I've stayed clean and sober. I'm healthier, happier and have been able to deal with life more calmly and with more dignity than I ever thought I could.
I've kept up the simple daily habits that were instilled in me at the Hacienda and I regularly log onto the weekly zoom meetings and connect with the friends I made during my stay and other ex-clients, who have all become like my second family. I go to other recovery meetings where I live and actively do what I can to help others who are struggling and I learn something new about myself and about life every day.
By putting my recovery first, being willing to use the support and guidance of Matt and others and practicing my program each day, I'm working again in a job I love, I'm a reliable, responsible, respected member of society again and I am the daughter, sister and aunty that my family deserve and that I've always wanted to be.
Rehab isn't a quick fix. The hard work starts when you leave. But it is so worth it. I have a life now that I don't want to lose and I could not have got to where I am today without starting my journey at Hacienda Paradiso. I can't thank them enough.
Reply from Villa Paradiso Group
2024.09.08
Emma, thank you for sharing your inspiring journey. We're thrilled to hear how Hacienda Paradiso helped you transform your life. Your dedication and progress are truly commendable. Stay strong and continue thriving; we're always here for you.