Pam

In 2003, Pam found her life spiraling out of control. Following some medical problems which led to surgery, Pam was innocently prescribed narcotic medications to assist with pain management. It wasn’t long before a dependency developed and addiction took hold. When the prescriptions ran out and doctor’s felt that they were no longer warranted, Pam turned to self-medication through other pills and heroin to satisfy the cravings and need for narcotics which had evolved.

For three years, Pam struggled with an addiction that had taken over her life. She came to Avis Arbor in 2006 to start over and begin afresh. Hesitant because of her addiction, she was not sure if she would be accepted by Avis or not. However, she was quickly comforted by the love, acceptance and grace that melted her fear, brokenness and addiction.

Pam ultimately gives glory to God for her new life, but secondarily acknowledges the staff of Avis Arbor who taught her many invaluable lessons and helped her to break free from addiction and regain her life. She states that it was through a Resident Assistant that she learned the lesson of gratitude. From her counselor she gained a new dimension of her Christian walk. Through the Program Coordinator Pam’s once broken spirit was mended. She discovered how to be humble during her stay at Avis Arbor and continues to work at the virtues gained through lessons learned to this day.

While many spiritual breakthroughs took place during her stay at Avis Arbor, stability was gained in other areas as well. Throughout the course of her residency, Pam was able to establish a strong recovery network and became engaged in outpatient programming as well as community support groups. She has secured permanent housing and has also maintained the same full-time job for approximately three years.

Pam is always eager to share the many lessons learned during her stay. For a period of one-year following her residency, Pam led a Bible Study for the residents of Avis Arbor. In addition, she has led other Bible studies in the community and is currently in training to become a Sunday School teacher. She is celebrating over three years clean and sober and will be returning to Avis Arbor to lead other groups in the near future. She stresses the value and importance of “giving back” and states that “it’s not about me… it’s about serving Christ and serving others.”

We celebrate the growth and accomplishments that have taken place in Pam’s life, but most of all we celebrate the new life that she has found since first stepping through our doors. She is a testimony and example that others will follow for years to come and we are honored and proud to share her story.