Recovery is possible!

Today I celebrate 20 years of recovery.

I celebrate with a Recovery mandala. It’s odd even writing that sentence. What does that even really mean? Everyone looks at recovery differently. I don’t believe there’s one perfect picture; recovery is whatever you make of it. I’ve had good days and bad days. I’ve reflected so much on the lost years, the lost health and the lost sense of self along the way. I have found gratitude for the immeasurable amount of support from sometimes the most unexpected individuals. I do know that I could never have been sitting here today without so many silent supporters, those who believed in me, and those who offered help when I was at my worst and unable to truly speak up for myself.

Why do I mark the day? When I was sick for those 14 years, I truly never believed I’d see this day. I faced immeasurable amount of criticism, judgment and lack of understanding, but more so the journey to rebirth and wellness was so painfully difficult and exhausting at times I didn’t know which was worse.

I mark this day for all the people who I have had the honor to walk with in their illness to offer words of support to help through my speaking, books, coaching and my retreats. I mark this day so that they can see the light at the other end…I will never forget what it took to get here.

Recovery is constant… We are all walking in recovery for one thing or another. There are slips and falls mistakes and trials, but we rise each day and begin again.

Recovery never looks perfect because there is no one way.

Recovery is how you define it for yourself.

Recovery is not easy and some days I’d rather not face it, but then I remember the gifts that I’ve received along the way.

I’ve done my best in my life to write thank you letters to every single person who has been there and lifted me up from doctors, nurses, therapists, nutritionists, dietitians, groups, teachers, counselors, friends, and even strangers who didn’t realize they played a role.

I quietly leave books, affirmations, notes of support in the least expected places hoping to be a reminder of hope and possibility to those who may need it.

I will never stop saying thank you for it is so important.

The most important thing at the end of the day is learning how to love yourself for who you are in the body you’re in, in the exact moment you breathe without apology.

Thank you!