Leanette's Journey: From Addicted Family to Recovery Advocate
Your parents are not your destiny, they are not i. I don't want to say I proved that, but I proved that.
Imagine growing up in a household where addiction was the norm. Leanette knows this reality all too well. Born into a family plagued by alcoholism and drug abuse, her childhood was a whirlwind of chaos and uncertainty. By the age of 13, Leanette had seen enough and decided to leave, dropping out of school and couch surfing to survive. Despite these early challenges, she never lost sight of her desire for a better life.
Leanette’s story, shared on 'The Courage to Change: A Recovery Podcast', is a testament to resilience and the power of choice. She speaks candidly about the impact her upbringing had on her life, including struggles with anger and forming healthy relationships. Yet, Leanette refused to let her past dictate her future. She joined the Job Corps, earned her GED, and even got married a few times along the way.
At 39, she took a leap of faith and enrolled in community college, initially without the intention of earning a degree. Years later, she proudly holds a bachelor’s degree and a Master's in Clinical Counseling from Bellevue University. Today, Leanette is a Substance Use Disorder (SUD) Counselor, helping others navigate their paths to recovery. Her message is clear: 'Your parents are not your destiny'.
She emphasizes that while growing up in an addicted family can be incredibly challenging, it doesn’t have to define your life. Through education and understanding addiction as a disease, Leanette believes we can break the cycle and remove the stigma surrounding it. Leanette’s story is more than just inspiring; it’s a beacon of hope for anyone struggling with addiction or trauma. Her journey highlights the importance of resilience, education, and the belief that change is always possible.
Tune in to hear Leanette's powerful narrative and find inspiration for your own recovery journey.