Vista Bay Graduate, Molly W.

Completed the Program in 2007

I was a complete mess when I first arrived at VistaBay. I had all but destroyed my body, my mind, my family, and my life. I had been a heroin addict for so long that I came to believe that it was my only option in life. I was sick all the time. I was weak and unhappy and apathetic about my life.

Fortunately, even though I had put my family through hell with my drug use, they had not yet given up on me. My parents gave me an opportunity to start living again by sending me to Vista Bay. I arrived on January 6, 2007. I came in strung out, with painful abscesses on my arms. I hadn’t slept for days. I was completely emotionally exhausted. I was scared at first. That seems odd now – I mean, how screwed up was I that seeking treatment would scare me more than eventually killing myself with drugs? Despite the fear, I was willing to give anything a chance. I didn’t know what to expect. But as soon as I met some of the staff and other students at VistaBay I began to feel at ease. I could tell immediately that the staff at Vista Bay genuinely cares about the students in their program. I had spent so long in isolation that it was hard for me to open up to anyone at first. But the staff was really patient and understanding. I felt like they knew where I was coming from and didn’t judge me. They demonstrated compassion and caring, and that gave me hope. I saw a lot of changes in myself throughout my program. Some were gradual and some were major breakthroughs.

I started sleeping at night! I had amazing energy throughout the day, I started eating healthy. Best of all, I began to open up to people, form friendships, and trust in humanity again. I no longer feel a need to hide from anyone or from my own emotions. I tried to get clean so many times before, but I never felt good when rehab was over. I always felt that I was suffering through my sobriety. Now I have reached a point where I truly enjoy life. I am eternally grateful for the second chance that I was given at VistaBay. I am happier than I have been in years.

- Molly W.