Pathway of Hope: Finding A New Light
In the wake of her mother’s passing, Kathryn and her two children escaped domestic violence and left their home in hopes of finding salvation and a fresh start. Kathryn came to Pathway of Hope in hopes of turning her and her children’s life around for the better.
Having dealt with an addiction to alcohol early on, she was determined to get sober and provide the best life possible for her family. Kathryn started out by attending a 12-step meeting where she met her Rachel, her Recovery Coach.
Apprehensive at first, the two quickly developed a strong bond that turned into a great friendship. They meet weekly to talk about current events, sobriety goals and anything else to keep Kathryn’s mind in a healthy state.
“She was in a dark place for a very long time,” Rachel asserted when asked about Kathryn’s past. “She’s battled her demons and continues to make steps forward in repairing herself and her relationship with her children.”
Kathryn recalls some of those difficult thoughts by stating, “Before my sobriety, I was not the greatest mother. I found comfort in drinking and hiding my problems behind a bottle. But worst of all, I neglected my children and they watched me spiral.”
Kathryn’s teenage daughter, Erica, recalls instances when her mother would be passed out at home, and she would have to take care of her until she was able to stand on her own two feet.
“It was extremely difficult to see my mom like that,” Erica exclaimed. “My brother and I would often tell each other that we wish our mom could stop drinking and spend more time with us doing things that other happy families would do.”
Kathryn is now nine months sober and has credited her accomplishment to the Pathway of Hope. “Without the support from the Army and my Recovery Coach, I wouldn’t be where I am today,” said Kathryn.
With her success, Kathryn and her two children have strengthened their relationship – Erica and her brother are happy with the strides their mother has made.
“We’re so proud of her and everything that she has accomplished,” Erica said when asked about her mom’s progress. “My brother and I feel like we have our mom back and we have the Pathway of Hope to thank for that.”