I used to exist and used to die.? I started drinking at the of 12 and became quite the party girl by 18.? Unfortunately, I did other drugs but at the age of 28 I thought I found exactly what I needed - crack cocaine.? I had a Bachelors Degree in Education, a husband, a beautiful home, ?my own learning center and 2 beautiful daughters.? Ten years l had given it all away.? I became sick and tired of becoming sick and tired and checked into a treatment center August 14, 1996.? Today, I can say that I am a blessed woman in recovery with almost 17 years clean.? I have a beautiful relationship with my two daughters and my grandchildren believe their Nana is the best.? I am the CEO of a 35 bed transitional living facility for recovering addicts.? Life has shown up on many occasions in the past 17 years but no matter what with the help of God and Narcotics Anonymous I have not picked up. It isn't difficult but different so I just don't resist the change.? If an old dope feind who lost their hustle in the streets can get clean and stay clean like myself, you can do it too.? Give yourself a chance.? Build a strong foundation, one day at a time and don't leave until the miracles happen.