Xiara's life was a tumultuous journey from the very beginning. Raised by a single mother who harbored resentment towards her due to her father's abandonment, Xiara's childhood was marked by a lack of emotional support, self-esteem, and confidence. Her mother's absence and emotional distance left her feeling lonely and unloved.
Early Struggles and Coping Mechanisms
As she grew older, Xiara sought refuge in substances. By the age of 12, she was experimenting with drugs and alcohol, leading her down a perilous path. The substances provided temporary relief from her inner turmoil, but they also pushed her further into the abyss of addiction.
Xiara's addiction escalated when she was introduced to opioids like Percocet and later heroin and Fentanyl. She described the euphoria these drugs provided as a hug she had always longed for but never received from her mother. However, this fleeting happiness was deceptive, and it was the beginning of a downward spiral into the depths of addiction. Eventually, Xiara realized she couldn’t function without the drugs, that they no longer provided the same relief, and she found herself stealing money from her family to sustain her habit. Her life had crumbled, and her addiction had taken control.
A Moment of Clarity and Pivotal Change
One moment of clarity changed Xiara's life. She realized she had to surrender to the grip of addiction. She took a courageous step and sought help at LESC. Xiara entered a detox program and later transitioned to long-term treatment. LESC played a vital role in her recovery journey, providing her with support, structure, therapy, parenting classes, and assistance finding work and supportive housing. LESC Su Casa provided a positive and supportive environment where Xiara could heal and thrive.
During her time at LESC, Xiara underwent a profound transformation. She explained that she discovered the strength and purpose within herself, “Today, I finally know my worth.” Xiara asserted. Her journey has been far from easy, but she has persevered.
Finding Purpose
Xiara recently graduated from LESC Su Casa, marking a significant milestone in her recovery. "LESC is one thing I'm very grateful for,” she explained. "Because of LESC, I am a year and three months in sobriety." Now, Xiara is determined to help other addicts, especially mothers, on their journey to recovery. Her dreams include becoming a peer advocate or sponsor to provide support and guidance to others who face the same challenges she once did.
Xiara's story is a testament to the power of resilience and the support provided by organizations like LESC. Her newfound hope and determination to help others serve as an inspiring example of triumph over adversity. She has not only reclaimed her life but also found her purpose in helping others find their path to recovery.