Jackie's Triumph: From Teenage Addiction to Lifesaving Nurse
You know, and all of these things that have come together in my life, like I'm going to be someone's wife in a year, yes, congrats. You know, just like addiction, like it's a stigma, people think you know the wrong thing about mental health.
Imagine believing you're destined for a tragic end, only to rewrite your story entirely. That’s exactly what Jackie did. At just 16, she got sober, convinced she was heading towards the infamous 27 Club—a group of celebrities who died at 27 due to substance abuse. But Jackie defied those odds. In this episode of 'The New Way of Life Podcast', she opens up about her early battle with addiction and how she managed to turn her life around.
Jackie’s journey didn’t stop at sobriety. Five years into her recovery, she faced another challenge—an eating disorder. Determined to reclaim her life once more, she sought specialized treatment and emerged stronger. Now, with 12 years of sobriety under her belt, Jackie works as a nurse at Stella Maris, a prestigious treatment center in Cleveland, Ohio. Her kindness and dedication shine through as she helps others on their path to recovery.
This episode isn't just about Jackie's struggles; it’s about her incredible resilience and the power of support and treatment. She breaks down the stigma surrounding mental health and addiction, showing that recovery is possible for anyone willing to seek help. Whether you're battling addiction yourself or supporting someone who is, Jackie's story is a beacon of hope and a testament to human strength.