Voices of Hope is sharing real stories of real people in recovery to combat the stigma against people who are struggling with substance use. People find recovery every day – with help from compassionate people who know that recovery is possible for everyone and anyone. Rondi supports people in recovery – giving away what she has been given. Thank you Rondi for stepping up out of anonymity to be a face and voice of hope!

My story begins at the age of 4, having my first taste of alcohol. Both my parents drank and so did all of my aunts, uncles and cousins. Everyone had fun and made the life look attractive to me. There were a lot of factors that came into play for me to want to chase the feeling that alcohol gave me. By the time I was 15, I became a full-blown alcoholic and addict. Everything that I valued and excelled at slowly disappeared from my grasp. At the age of 19, I was introduced to cocaine and for the next 17 years I chased the illusion of euphoria. My world became a dark abyss. I spiraled out of control and wanted to end it all. My husband and children couldn’t save me. I got to such a low point that there was nowhere else to go but up. That’s when I hit my knees and prayed to God, that I didn’t understand , and asked for help. For the last 20 years my life has not been the same. I jumped into my local 12-step fellowship and I’ve been there ever since. I got a sponsor right away and started working the 12 steps. My journey into recovery has been unbelievable! By 9 months of sobriety I started helping other women who were trying to get sober. That has been such an important part of my recovery. It is truly my passion! This has led me to help others at Voices of Hope. Not only do I get to help other women, but I get to help addicts of all walks of life. I thank my Higher Power each and everyday for all the gifts I have been given.