Support and Resources Help Betty Find Her Way to Sobriety
Betty came from a family with a history of alcoholism and mental health issues. She suffered numerous traumas early in life, including rape, the murder of her mother, and domestic violence. The pain of this trauma led to drug abuse and prostitution. When Betty first began trying to turn her life around, she was introduced to St. Vincent de Paul Louisville, where she was able to find an apartment that she shared with her 13-year-old son.
“St. Vincent de Paul was the beginning of my efforts to start my life over,” says Betty.
While at SVDP, Betty received her GED, took parenting classes, and worked at a fast-food restaurant. She found support for her children and for herself with the other women living at St. Vincent de Paul.
“We were definitely a family,” she explains. “We all felt like this was a safe place, filled with support and a lot of positive influences.”
The staff played a big role in Betty’s recovery as well. She remembers a support person from SVDP, Robin, who helped her get her GED. “Robin was tough, but she’d listen to you and support you,” explains Betty. “Even when I didn’t think it was worth it, Robin encouraged me to get that GED.”
Betty’s life wasn’t perfect after leaving St. Vincent de Paul. She had many obstacles in her life and fell back into addiction. But through work with places like St. Vincent de Paul and the Healing Place, she was able to find her way back to sobriety. She now works as a peer support specialist at Seven Counties, helping others navigate through the obstacles that mental health issues and substance abuse throw in their way.
She is still close to many of the women she met at St. Vincent de Paul and calls them a part of her village that help keep her and her children loved and supported.
“I have a lot of strong women in my life now, and several I’ve known since St. Vincent de Paul,” she smiles.
The Village also allowed Betty to expand her family. While living at DePaul Apartments, her son met a child of another client who he later fell in love with and married. He and his wife, Ashley, are expecting their fourth child. And that love story started at St. Vincent de Paul.
Bev says
Betty, you are a true inspiration! Congratulations to having another grandchild. You are in my prayers.
Margi says
I loved reading Betty’s story and learning about the support she found through her SVDP village. I wish her the very best in her future.