What does recovery look like to you?

In honor of Recovery Month 2020, we invited community members to share photos and describe how they represented “recovery” to them. Recovery is everywhere, so we also asked people to share photos representing personal recovery, family recovery, recovery advocacy, recovery pets, hope, recovery allies, recovery professionals, honor guard (10+ years of recovery) and remembering a loved one.

Thank you to everyone for sharing your powerful stories of hope and resiliency. We received over 200 photos!

Miche'leIn 2011 I walked through the doors of MRC. I was 9 months sober and fighting to stay sober. That day was the start of my recovery. I was welcomed by 3 women who embraced me. I showed up every day for 8 hours a day for two weeks. Something as small as shredding paper kept my mind occupied. As the time passed through the months I found a part of me that was empty filled with peace, love and joy. My recovery strengthened, and I am here today with 10 years of RECOVERY. MRC will always be the heart beat of my recovery. Love, Miche'le Cortinas

Smiling woman wearing Native American jewelry

Bernice28 years in recovery! Taking my life back and handing everything over to my Creator! So that I can give back to my community and help the next young Native American get sober!

RandyRecovery means I get to have my family in my life.

John

I am Anishinaabe, my name is Niizh Animikii; Second Thunderbird. This photo represents a gift in the form of a path. I was in and out for years, trying to get well. There came a tipping point, where I became willing to do what was asked. So I followed instructions, asked for help, and surrendered. What this life has allowed me to do, amazes me. A Ph.D, two Masters Degrees. A rewarding career in tribal service. A loving partner, a home. This path has responsibilities and challenges. But greater still, it has love and kindness. This, we get to share this with each other. With love, Dr Littlewolf

Wendy

In my recovery I not only learned to love myself, but I found the love of my life. Gary and I have been married for 15 years now. We share a passion for quirky Americana, giant roadside architecture, and local dives and diners. When I was in active addiction, I couldn't imagine having the love and joy I've found in our partnership.There's nowhere I'd rather be than with him, on a long and winding road trip, cranking up the volume to our favorite car songs, and in search of the World's Largest Donut!

Man sitting at table in front of plates of delicious food.

ChrisSober vacations are incredible!

Hillary

My husband celebrates 20 years in recovery this year. His recovery journey is central to who he is and how he moves through the world. It's a big part of why I fell in love with him, and why we get to be parents to the most beautiful 1-year-old. Thank you and "Happy Birthday" my love!

Smiling father, in college graduation cap and gown, standing arm in arm with smiling son.

Edward

As a person in long term recovery of 12 years of continuous abstinence from all substances. Today I am a father to a wonderful 10 yr old boy. I Have sole legal and physical custody. I’ve raised Edward since he was an infant. Because of recovery, I have a relationship with my family again whom I was estranged from for over a decade because of heroin addiction. I’m a student and have 2 degrees in Human Services and a LADC! I have a partner who loves me and who I love unconditionally. I show up in people’s lives and am here to support those struggling within SUD. I’m a social justice advocate.