Linda’s Transformation from Despair to Hope

Meet Linda, a remarkable woman who has experienced life’s roller coaster of ups and downs. Linda, who just turned 64 on New Year’s Eve, came from a respectable background with her father retiring from TWA at LaGuardia Airport and her brother from Chase Bank. However, Linda’s life took a tumultuous turn when she was introduced to drugs at the age of 23.

Linda’s drug of choice was crack cocaine, and she spiraled into homelessness, sleeping in a van, selling her body, and getting entangled in prostitution. Her life became a never-ending cycle of arrests, possession of drugs, and prostitution charges. She spent over 30 years in the clutches of addiction and homelessness.

Despite the difficulties she faced, Linda recognized her need for change. “I got tired of being used. I got tired of using myself. I got tired of dogging myself. I knew I was better than that,” Linda explained. That’s when she sought refuge in a shelter and eventually transitioned to a Common Ground program. “I finally opened my eyes and decided to love myself,” Linda added. This marked the beginning of her journey toward recovery and stability.

The Turning Point: The LESC Connection

When Linda moved into a single-person occupancy studio at LESC Franklin Avenue Residence, her life started to change. Initially, she was skeptical about paying the rent, but she knew she had to seize this opportunity for a fresh start.

Linda’s remarkable transformation can be attributed to her recovery journey that began at LESC. Her case managers, relapse prevention groups, and harm reduction programs played a pivotal role in helping Linda rebuild her life. The organization’s supportive staff encouraged her to access critical services, including dentistry and mental health care. With confidence, Linda asserted, “Because of LESC, I’m alive today. I finally opened my eyes and decided to love myself.” Linda joined various support groups and actively participated in relapse prevention programs offered by LESC. These groups not only helped her overcome addiction but also provided a sense of community and belonging.

Today, Linda treasures the stability and safety that she’s found at LESC. She values her personal growth, freedom, and independence. Her future is filled with promise, she’s working on computer skills and furthering her self-improvement. And she has been dedicated to giving back. In fact, she has helped organize positive activities for her fellow residents.

Linda hasn’t stopped with her own recovery. She reaches out to others who are going through similar challenges, extending a hand of support and encouragement. Linda has this advice, “It’s never too late. For those out there that are still suffering, come in from the cold.”