OASAS Honors Inspirational Women in Recovery from Addiction

ALBANY, NY (03/01/2009)(readMedia)-- State Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services (OASAS) Commissioner Karen M. Carpenter-Palumbo today honored inspirational women who are in recovery from drug and alcohol addiction in recognition of Women's History Month.

"These remarkable women are strong individuals who can offer words of inspiration, courage and hope to other women in recovery," said Commissioner Carpenter-Palumbo. "They are shining examples of the sisterhood of recovery and have triumphantly turned their life around from drug and alcohol addiction and now embrace a health lifestyle as proud women."

Hear from inspirational women in recovery:

Kristina Sellers, two years in recovery, Staten Island, "The strength of a woman is so powerful when put to use. With the dedication, inspiration and believing in "YOU," fighting the disease of addiction can become a reality. A woman's confidence can bring light to the end of that dark road which in time will make a woman stronger and feel good about herself without having to use each day in recovery. Never give up; with sobriety you have the power to be a special woman in your life to yourself, family and friends; and as a recovering addict I can say this is the best feeling in the world. Stay focused and never let anyone come in your way of achieving the best."

Ronnie Uss, 35 years in recovery, Suffolk County, "Recovery has been a remarkable journey that has allowed me to fulfill my highest aspirations - as a loving mother and grandmother, a competent and caring professional, and now, in retirement, as an involved member of my community."

Joyce Love,19 years 7months in recovery, Albany, "I was desperate and wanted to live. I never would have made it without out the grace of GOD, friends, treatment professionals, church family and family. Recovery has given me a second chance to live. Life shows up and happens without warning on this recovery journey, and I deal with it by reaching out to my support network. I have really come to grips with and respect the motto: "One day at a time or one minute at a time" As women we take care of everyone else, I love my family and they love me. I have learned to take care of me. It's a must! I am responsible for my recovery. I am grateful for my second chance. I am doing things I never thought I would do or be considered for. I am one of the no matter what club members, no matter what life brings, I have come this far by faith and I won't let nothing turn me around."

OASAS has also launched a campaign called Your Story Matters, asking people in recovery from problem gambling, alcoholism or drugs to share their story of recovery to inspire hope in those in dealing with addiction and to educate the public on the reality of recovery. To read stories of recovery or submit your story, go to iamrecovery.com.

Commissioner Carpenter-Palumbo continued, "It is important for women in need of help to know that New York State offers high quality women's programming which address the strengths and needs of the women. These programs foster a safe, nurturing and supportive environment designed to address the barriers women encounter throughout their treatment experience. Help is available by calling the toll-free, 24-hour HOPEline at 1-877-8-HOPENY."

OASAS oversees one of the nation's largest addictions services system, with more than 1,500 programs available, including approximately 50 treatment programs specialized for women and 26 residential programs that will admit children along with the parent. More than 72,700 women were treated in New York last year, with two-thirds reporting having children. OASAS services for women include prevention of fetal alcohol spectrum disorder, child care education, prenatal care, vocational and academic support, recovery management, and partnering with other systems to address other serious issues such as domestic violence, child abuse, HIV/AIDS, and foster care.

In addition, OASAS continues to work with other state agencies to provide for the multiple needs of women who are working toward recovery, by cooperating with the child welfare, family court, criminal justice and other service systems that are involved in a women's life.

As safe, affordable housing and stable employment are critical to successful long-term recovery, OASAS currently has permanent supportive housing available to individuals and families in recovery with over 1,200 apartments, including over 750 units in New York City and 350 units in upstate cities. One-third of all apartments are occupied by families, often as the result of family reunification efforts. The permanent housing initiative offers case management services and employment counseling. For more information about OASAS or addiction, please visit www.oasas.state.ny.us.

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