AMANDA

Rite to Freedom Volunteer & Participant Since 2017
Community Council Member & Facilitator

My addiction was alcohol. It took over my life and nearly destroyed me. I was a shell of the person I was. I had been attending AA meetings and a lady there suggested I go on a R2F residential. All I was told was that it would be beneficial and an amazing experience.

My retreat was in June 2017. Unsure whether it was going to go ahead as there had been storms which had blown trees over the access roads.

It did go ahead. I had no idea what to expect and I surprised myself by actually going. And boy am I glad I did!

Initially I was like a little mouse who would not say a word. I can’t explain what happened but that weekend changed me. It gave me back my voice. They accepted me for what I was at the time and helped me see direction on where I wanted to go. So the journey began….

R2F has given me so much. From feeling I belong to a community, to connecting back with nature. I was given space to explore my thoughts, feelings and actions and what they meant. It has helped me continue with a spiritual journey which AA started.

I then went on mentoring days which continued to help my growth. I then volunteered as staff on residentials. Not only is it amazing to be part of the participants experience but I further my growth too.

R2F has grounded me to be able to work with my demons. Tools to manage and understand them and a deeper exploration into my recovery, healing and how to be the person I want to be.