The Lowest Point

On July 21st, 2024, in complete despair, I picked up fentanyl, fully intending to overdose. I had convinced myself that the world would be better off without me—that my children, my family, and everyone who had ever loved me would eventually move on and be happier without the burden of my existence. Addiction distorts reality in the cruelest ways, whispering lies so convincingly that they feel like truths.

But instead of the end I had planned, something unexpected happened. Just eight days later, I found myself checking into detox. I don’t remember exactly what led me there—whether it was divine intervention, a moment of clarity, or sheer survival instinct. But in that moment, I told myself that I would get through withdrawal, leave, and return to Alcoholics Anonymous. I still believed I had control. I thought I could simply dust myself off, return to meetings, and fix everything on my own.

That illusion shattered when I had a life-changing conversation with Wade Muhlhauser.

The Call That Led to Redemption

After medically clearing myself from detox, still convinced that I knew what was best, I reached out to Wade. I’ll never forget that call because it altered the course of my life in a way I never could have anticipated. Wade spoke to me with a rare blend of honesty and compassion—firm but kind, unwavering yet understanding. He didn’t sugarcoat anything. He told me the truth I had been avoiding: that I needed time to reset. That I had to stop pretending I could white-knuckle my way through recovery. That my life, my sobriety, and my mental health had to come first.

He invited me to Plugged In Recovery. He reminded me that I didn’t have to do this alone.

That call broke through my denial, and for the first time in a long time, I surrendered. I admitted that I needed help.

The Plugged In Redemption Experience

Walking into Plugged In Recovery was unlike anything I had ever experienced before. I had been in treatment before, but nothing prepared me for what I found there. The home itself was stunning—beautiful, peaceful, a place that immediately felt like a sanctuary. But what truly made the difference were the people inside.

Wade had built something extraordinary. Plugged In wasn’t just another treatment center; it was a place filled with people who genuinely cared. The staff weren’t just professionals—they were warriors in recovery themselves, individuals who understood the battle I was fighting because they had fought it too. They weren’t there for a paycheck; they were there because they believed in the power of healing and redemption.

Bravo and Heath played a critical role in my first few weeks. They saw right through me. They weren’t afraid to call me out on my ego, my justifications, and my self-deception. They didn’t let me hide behind old patterns or manipulate my way through recovery like I had done in the past. With their guidance, I started to strip away the layers of delusion I had built up over the years. For the first time in a long time, I started to find humility again—a vital step in my redemption process.

Jackie, my therapist, became my rock. She earned my trust immediately. She was strong, wise, and unwavering in her support. Through her, I learned the power of setting healthy boundaries and, more importantly, following through with them. That lesson alone was a game-changer. For so long, I had allowed others to dictate my worth, to take advantage of my kindness, to manipulate me into betraying my own needs. Jackie taught me that setting boundaries wasn’t about shutting people out—it was about valuing myself enough to demand respect. I wouldn’t be the woman I am today without her guidance.

Tyler reintroduced me to something I had lost along the way—the power of The Sick Man’s Prayer from Alcoholics Anonymous. Through him, I was able to take an honest look at my part in my resentments and, most importantly, learn to forgive. My anger had been poisoning me, festering inside me, and Tyler helped me see that unless I released it, it would destroy me.

Jonah, Lexi, and Suzanne were beacons of light during my journey. Their compassion, dedication, and unwavering belief in every client they worked with were truly inspiring. I will always be grateful to Lexi and Suzanne for being my biggest cheerleaders when I needed it most and to Jonah for his wisdom during my toughest days.

And I can’t forget Dez, Eric, and Ryan—the heart of Plugged In’s operations. Their drive, passion, and deep love for this place were undeniable. Seeing their dedication made me want to be part of something bigger than myself.

Of course, no experience at Plugged In would be complete without mentioning Chef Shannon. It wasn’t just about the incredible meals—though they were definitely a highlight—it was the way she created a sense of home. She cared about every client who walked through the doors, and that warmth made all the difference.