Allison's Journey: From Addiction to Nursing with Compassion
I felt like I couldn't disclose as much to them as I had previously done, out of a need to protect them and also protect myself, because they were paying for my college tuition at the time and my apartment.
Growing up in the tight-knit, fundamentalist Christian community of rural Texas, Allison always felt like an outsider. Her teenage years brought a whirlwind of change when she was introduced to a world of pasture parties, heavy drinking, and drugs. By 19, Allison was battling alcohol addiction and heroin dependency. Frequent visits to jails and psychiatric wards became her norm, and a series of failed suicide attempts at 22 finally led her to seek recovery in Arizona.
Surrounded by a diverse group of young adults, Allison began to rebuild her life through AA meetings and stepwork, forging lifelong friendships along the way. Allison's journey took a significant turn when she decided to pursue a nursing degree, despite her criminal record and past struggles. Her experiences with addiction allowed her to connect with patients on a deeper level, approaching them with empathy and understanding.
However, working in healthcare while maintaining her sobriety came with its own set of challenges. She had to navigate difficult situations with colleagues and patients, all while staying true to her recovery. In this episode, Allison opens up about her experiences with polyamory and relationships in sobriety, the trials of divorce while in recovery, and the crucial role of self-care.
Her story highlights the importance of empathy and compassion towards those struggling with addiction and underscores the significance of spirituality in her journey. Allison's transformation from a troubled youth to a compassionate nurse is a powerful reminder that no matter how daunting our circumstances may seem, change is always possible. Her story is a testament to the strength of vulnerability and the impact of sharing one's journey.
Tune in to hear more about Allison's inspiring path on 'The Courage to Change: A Recovery Podcast'.