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Ryan The day I took my first drink, I didn’t think I would die multiple times and end up in prisons and institutions. I started using drugs and alcohol at a young age. Not so much because I thought it was cool, it was what made me feel like I belonged. Shortly after, I realized that drinking and drugging enabled me to feel, which became the main objective. Once the obsession came, it was impossible for me to stop. I caused a lot of damage for several years, mainly to the ones close to me, my family. When I was 22, I found AA, but I could never stop using and stay stopped.

Ryan December 2021, I was walking over the Washington street bridge in Wilmington, DE, and contemplated ending it all. God had a different path for me, which included Limen Recovery and Wellness. The staff and residents I met there helped save my life. I became part of a large family. It was unlike any treatment facility I had ever been to. The ideas taught there were just different. We weren’t just taught about relapse prevention and triggers like every other treatment center. Limen showed me what I was suffering from and how to stay sober using God and the 12 steps. I honestly don’t know where I would be if it wasn’t for Limen and the alumni members who came back to show us that it works. Today, I can show up for the people in my life. I have a full-time job with perfect attendance, and most importantly, I am happy and want to live. I also found great joy in helping others find the same path.

Sam I never felt comfortable in my skin. I grew up in a chaotic household and started drinking when I was 9. I thought my childhood trauma defined who I was and spent my life feeling that way. By the time I was 15 I moved on to opioids, and I thought they were my problem. I quit those and started using cocaine and meth, thinking I could control my usage. Needless to say, I was wrong.

Joe I burned my life to the ground multiple times again and again. I had been kicked out of my children's grandmother's house 3 or 4 times because of my actions while using and drinking. I was sleeping in public restrooms and scavenging for food wherever I could. Then one night, I went to lay down behind a gas station to sleep and I heard a little voice in my head say "you can't live like this anymore," and for some reason, I believed it. I admitted myself into detox, went to treatment, and from there took a suggestion to go to Limen Recovery and Wellness. I can honestly say it was the best decision that was ever made for me. Today, I am active in my children's lives and able to help provide them with not only their needs but their wants, as well. I no longer wonder where my next meal will come from, and I'm living a life based on spiritual principles that the Limen program taught me. Life didn't get any easier, I'm just better equipped to deal with it. I will have a year of continuous sobriety this month, something I never thought possible before I came to Limen Recovery and Wellness. I want to thank all the counselors and alumni for showing me a better way of life and teaching me to deal with life on life's terms. Without all of you, I'd still be making excuses for my actions. You have all taught me how to live, not just survive.

Doug R. When I walked into Limen Recovery and Wellness, I was hopeless, ashamed, and filled with guilt. I had multiple attempts at recovery and a long list of institutions under my belt. I should have had a degree in self-sabotage. Limen taught me that it's okay to not be okay at times. The treatment and therapy they gave helped me begin the healing process. They helped me find my voice and the ability to stand up for my beliefs so that I could grow spiritually, mentally, and physically. I started step work and got a sponsor during my stay. They introduced me to a wonderful fellowship and the other residents in the house became my brothers. This house opened their arms to me, and my time there helped reunite my family. I found gratitude in daily life that I never felt when I was under the influence. I learned a routine that allows me to grow and no matter what happens, I never have to use substances to get through it. Limen Recovery and Wellness gave me the tools I need to start my life over.

Doug R.













Sam Hi I’m Sam. Drugs and alcohol were an integral part of my life from the age of 13 up until I decided to finally address the problem at the age of 21. For those 8 years substances outside of me served as my solution to the problems I was dealing with internally. My life was in shambles, completely unmanageable and miserable as these substances stopped working. I never had any idea as to why I could not stop doing these things to myself, even with all of the clear evidence I need to in the form of health issues, a stroke, and arrests before I was even legally old enough to drink. I always thought this problem was just a matter of me needing to stop using substances, but simply lacking the willpower to do so. Until I found myself in the Limen Recovery + Wellness.

Sam I was first introduced to the Limen Recovery + Wellness as I was going from treatment center to treatment center for a couple of years, not fully ready to make the commitment recovery requires. I was told about the structure the house provides and the length of time they provide you with to sit with yourself, and immediately brushed the idea away, as I was not yet desperate enough to make that kind of positive commitment. The seed was planted; however, as I began seeing that out of the many I was in treatment with, the few that remained sober had all gone through the Limen Recovery + Wellness, showing me that this place is clearly special.

After a year or so more of the pain and suffering active alcoholism never fails to provide, I decided to go to treatment, open up my ears, and request to go to the Limen Recovery + Wellness. I was in detox for 3 weeks and inpatient treatment for three months before finally arriving at the house. Even being as fearful as I was being in a new environment I felt more welcomed and loved by the men at the house than I had felt by anyone I had ever called a friend previously in my life. It was an odd feeling to have with all of the trust issues I came into the house with, but quickly overcame those feelings of distrust and I began to form the strongest bonds I have ever had. The process in the house gave me time to learn to sit with myself, breathe, and be available to those around me and my spirituality. It allowed me to expose my alcoholic behaviors and tendencies and work on corrective measures for them. I was able to build a foundation of 12-step recovery while in the house that I believe I would have never had the opportunity to do anywhere else.

Today I live at the Limen Step-Down House in a stable environment with other recovering alcoholics and a counselor to bring my crazy ideas to. I have been through the 12 steps and continue to practice them every day in all aspects of my life. I have an honest and open relationship with members of my family that I have never had before. I have a job in which I am valued by my employer and perform well at. I have a new perspective of my circumstances and situations that happened in my life. Most importantly though, I have a real, genuine relationship with a higher power today. These are all things the Limen Recovery + Wellness helped me accomplish by providing me a safe place early on in recovery, and I truly believe my higher power placed me at the Limen Recovery + Wellness when he did for a reason.

Michael Hello, my name is Michael Jacobs and I am an alcoholic. I could not tell you when I crossed the line or if I was born with alcoholism or not. All I can tell you is what it was like, what happen, and what it is like now! My childhood was not bad by any means, if you ask me it was normal or at least what I would say is normal. I played sports, I had many friends and I did okay in school. What I can say was there was always something missing. No matter how many friends I had or what sports I played I felt the need to keep searching for something. Searching for whatever I thought I needed made me change from one thing to the next or one friend to the next, never being satisfied with I had. It made me feel less than a lot of times and afraid of what other people would say, so I felt I needed to put masks on until I could figure it out. I truly felt like I was two people living in the same body, one that I will let others see and the one that would torture me

Michael Jacobs This went on for awhile until my early teens when I was introduced to drugs and alcohol. I remember the first time I got drunk/high I told myself this is what I wanted to do for the rest of my life. I no longer felt lost anymore, or alone, at that moment I thought I found my true self, the something I have always looked for. At first it was hard to do being underage and it not being easily accessible, but I remember always not being able to wait until I can do it again. That is where it first began and little did, I know what was in store and what kind of beast I woken up. For a while after, I did my thing and would drink or use when I was able to and nothing bad came from it. I found the answer to my problems! I graduated from high school and started working for Toyota as a mechanic. Everything on the outside of me appear like I was doing great. But slowly and surely my solution started not to work, and I graduated to harder drugs like crack and heroin. That is when things started to take a turn for the worst and I never seen it coming. I was 23 years old when I overdosed my first time behind the wheel of my car and entered my first treatment program. I was terrified and ashamed of what had happened and never wanted to touch another drug again in my life. Little did I know I had a disease that wants me alone so it can kill me, and I thought being separated was enough for me. I was introduced to AA at that time and I thought it was good for the people who needed it, but I was certain that I would never use again. Suddenly, I was searching for that something again just as I was as a little kid and I became irritable, restless, and discontent and it kept getting worse. I ended up relapsing, which gave me relieve in the moment from my own self again. In return It brought much pain to myself and my loved ones for the next 6 years. I was in and out of treatment countless number of times, overdosed 5 more times and was homeless on the streets in some of the worst spots possible. Eventually the pain got great enough, and I ended up in Wilmington Delaware at the Limen Recovery + Wellness.

The Limen Recovery + Wellness truly saved my life! When I got there, I was certainly tired of living the way I was for last 15 years and I was willing to do what they told me to do. What I did not know was, what they were going to have me do and the biggest two things was to breath and be available. Two things that were totally foreign to me. I had to learn to sit with myself and be okay, while being there for others when someone or anyone needed a hand. They showed me what patience, tolerance, love and kindliness’ are. I was shown how to work a 12 step program through the house and through the alumni that came back and through the staff. Not to just do the 12 steps but to live them on a daily basis. I developed a relationship with a high power while there, one that continues to grow today! The higher power that I was searching for my entire life, the one I thought I found when I first picked up a substance. I spent a little over 9 months in the Limen Recovery + Wellness and I was afforded the opportunity to move into their step down house, which is where I reside now! Through my time at Limen I have develop vast friendships, was able to get employed again then was able to move on to a better job! I have been able to rekindle damaged relationships and started to amend them. I have gained some trust back with my family. I have my beautiful 19 month old daughter in my life today, that I absolutely love to death! I am a friend, a brother, a son, a father, an employee today thanks to the Limen Recovery + Wellness and all its staff! I will continue to breath and stay available for whoever may need help! I will always be grateful for the Limen Recovery + Wellness! Thank You! My sobriety date is 4/9/19 by the grace of god! Recovery is possible!!

McKenna Growing up, I’d always felt different. I never felt that I was “a part of,” no matter how hard I tried. I tried doing team sports, playing the guitar, dressing in clothes that I thought other people would like on me rather than what I felt comfortable in… I had all these masks that I would put on just to try and fit in but none of them ever worked. I was so driven by fear in every single aspect of my life and it was crippling. I lived in this cage in my mind for so long until relief came in the form of my first drink at around 14 years old. That drink turned into multiple drinks that night, and I had found what I’d been searching for my whole life: absolute freedom. I could finally breathe out. For the first time in my life, I felt that I could socialize, be funny, dance, and be someone that people actually liked. The fear of being myself had vanished, and I knew that I had found a solution.

McKenna Symon When I went off to college, my life really started to spiral out of control. I had found my tribe there, a group of people who drank like I did, and I was off to the races. I had arrived. I was partying every single night, rarely attending class, and if I did attend class I was either high or drunk going into it. I was also in a really abusive relationship at this time. Friends and family would always ask me “Why are you still with him?” and the answer was simple: he provided me drugs and alcohol. That was my motivation for staying in that relationship for as long as I did. I knew that regardless of what happened to me, I had those two things to get me through it. Then I got kicked out of school as a direct result of my drinking and drugging, and I was still in denial. I genuinely didn’t think I had a problem.

It didn’t take long for me to become a slave to my addiction, especially once heroin came into the picture. I lived to use and used to live. I could not function for even a moment being sober. I was no longer using for a sense of freedom, but for complete and total oblivion. I didn’t care who I hurt or what I had to do in order to get the next one because I no longer had a choice in the matter. Nothing was out of the question. My family, friends, and co-workers started to notice. It didn’t matter how many times they begged and pleaded with me to stop. I couldn’t. Not on my own will power. The first time I went to rehab, I had no real desire to get sober. From there I went to an Oxford house, and for a short time the only thing I wasn’t doing was using. I wasn’t working any kind of program, working with a sponsor, or really going to meetings, and I couldn’t figure out why I was more miserable than when I was using. I couldn’t understand why my life got worse without the drugs and alcohol, and it was not long before I picked up again. I was right back in this hell I had created for myself and I just didn’t know what to do. The drugs and alcohol were no longer working. I didn’t want to live anymore but I was also too afraid to kill myself. I would beg and plead to a God I didn’t believe in at the time to just kill me, beg that I would overdose and not wake up, and would be filled with anger and sadness when I came to in the morning. When the Oxford house found out I was using again, they kicked me out. For whatever reason, this felt different. It was not the worst of the consequences I had suffered throughout my addiction, but all of a sudden it mattered. The sense of hopelessness that came over me at that point is indescribable. I was given two options: I could go to the hospital or figure something else out. Something profound came over me that I couldn’t recognize at the time and told them to take me to the hospital. I was beaten and broken in body, mind and spirit and I was officially out of ideas. I no longer had a plan. I didn’t see it at the time, but today I believe that getting kicked out of there is one of the best things that’s ever happened to me.

I remember meeting Patrick M. at the hospital. He had said to me “You’re very lucky to be alive” and I had never, ever felt lucky to be alive before. From that point on, I started taking suggestions. I was finally willing to go to any lengths to get sober. Through family and some friends in the program, I went through detox and rehab again and ended up at Limen Recovery + Wellness. There, they taught me how to function as a human being again. I learned that I have a disease that talks to me in my own voice, that tells me I don’t have a disease. I learned to sit with myself and be available. I learned that the substances weren’t the problem, but that I was the problem, and they were just a really temporary solution. I truly believe that without Limen and the program, I wouldn’t be alive today. They gave my family their daughter back, their granddaughter back, their niece back, their cousin back, and I am surrounded by people who lift me up on a daily basis. I have deep and meaningful connections with those around me today. I finally feel “a part of,” and I no longer need a drink or a drug to feel that way. I am actually able to sleep peacefully at night without my mind racing a thousand miles a minute, and wake up grateful to be alive. It’s not always easy, but because of Limen Recovery + Wellness and the program, I have the tools I need to get through the rough patches. The amount of gratitude I have for this place is immeasurable and I will never be able to fully put it into words.

Andrew My name is Andrew and I’m an alcoholic. I’m not one to believe I was necessarily born an alcoholic but I do understand I was predisposed to it. I can look back and see where specific incidents and traumas stunted me as a child and my alcoholic impulses took over and led me to negative behaviors at a young age. I do subscribe to the idea that having started drugs and alcohol at the age of 10 was where my emotional maturity level stopped until I achieved sobriety. I can recognize how I altered my behavior to make people like me- using drugs and alcohol, giving people money, and sexual encounters. Reflecting on my experiences as a younger man I can see what it meant to be a dry drunk – I was angry and didn’t know how to express it. I was lonely and how I carried that into being alone in the middle of a crowd.

Andrew It was in college that I became reacquainted with heavy use of drugs and alcohol. I recall in the beginning telling my then-boyfriend I wanted to be one of the ‘cool kids’ and how I used ecstasy and the rave scene to find a culture I thought I could fit in to. This began an 11-year binge of alcohol and drug use. Turning 21, I hit the bars hard and though I wasn’t using drugs, my best friend, my partner, died overseas and I used his death as an excuse to do what I really wanted. I got very heavily into cocaine and tried to fill the hole that was left with sex and drugs. This pattern continued where I would crash and rebuild my life, trying to keep a lid on my substance abuse, while all the while celebrating with benders on each of my successes at being ‘sober’. I was never truly sober, and so experienced evictions, repossessions, loss of ‘stuff’ which required me to further manipulate the men in my life to fill the voids.

Finally, years later I found myself back in my mom’s attic, alone and lost, stealing from her even though she gave me anything and everything. Even to the point where I would ‘army crawl’ across the floor to sneakily steal pills from out of her purse, all the while crying because I didn’t want to do it and praying, I wouldn’t wake up the next morning. What I experienced was loss, despair, and in the end hopelessness which led me to thoughts of killing myself. And still, somehow, I continued on to a point where I believe, along with others in my life, I would not have lasted another 6 months. And in a moment which I then believed was insanity, wearing a dingy cigarette burned bright pink robe, I dropped to my knees, knife in hand, and begged my mother to reach out to the one sober person I could connect with – my father.

Quickly I realized something greater than myself had taken over my life. Within days of asking for help I found myself arriving at Father Martin Ashley’s – and that was a moment of divine providence, something I could never have done on my own. While there, even though I was bat-shit crazy, I was always met with love and support from staff and felt no judgement. I was able to look at the trauma and experiences of my life with nothing but love from those around me. In my last weeks of rehab, I interviewed with Limen Recovery + Wellness. I knew even it wasn’t where I wanted to be but it was where I needed be. The treatment team at Ashley saved me, pointing out I was homeless, penniless and on the wrong coast of the country. This was my only hope.

After arriving at Limen Recovery + Wellness I began to believe the nightmare was finally over. I was frightened, alone in a new environment, without the tools I had so often used I felt even more support and unconditional love.

Admittedly I was a handful for Limen – residents and staff alike. It gave me the foundation I needed; it provided me the strongest foundation possible even while I was acting out in self-will, which led me to being asked to leave Limen Recovery + Wellness. And that was a breakthrough moment for my process – that was a turning point for me where I finally grasped on for dear life the tools Limen Recovery + Wellness had taught me. I used my network, my sponsor, connected to those around me and made it through what could have been a very dark moment.

I continued to do everything that was taught to me and it was the most beautiful experience I had ever had. I was able to eventually approach Vinnie and Mike Duffy about moving into the level 2 house. After being accepted, I experienced a life beyond my wildest dreams. Because of this house, my service to AA, and my community, I was unwavered by the pandemic. I continued to believe if I put the right foot forward, my higher power would provide and they have continued to do so. The community I had yearned for in my addiction has grown up around me and shoulder to shoulder we trudge the road to happy destiny.

Andrew

My name is Michelle S. I am a grateful recovering alcoholic. I never thought I would be able to say that with conviction and sincerity. I struggled with this disease for 30 years, with the last 5 in and out of rehabs, hitting lower bottoms each time. I was finally broken and given the gift of desperation. I couldn’t bear digging my hole any deeper so I cried for help, either bury me or give me a hand. Now I know that hand was my higher power. I knew nothing about Limen Recovery + Wellness. I spent 30 days in Connections WRP and they told me to go there for an interview, so I did. I was so broken, when I walked in the Level 3 house, my first thought was 'this place is too good for me'. I was taught how to be human again. I was told when to wake up, where to go, what to do, when to go to bed. And I needed every bit of that. I was made to sit in silence with myself. For the first time in my whole life, I was given a chance to just work on me. No cellphone, no internet, no tv all day. I was told to take advantage of everyday at the Limen Recovery + Wellness, because it will go by quickly. Today I have a sponsor, I have a higher power, I have connection. I have been building back relationships with my children and parents who always had my back even when they had to turn theirs on me, and I am so grateful for that. I am a productive member of society, I have peace in my heart, and I have the honor of taking other women through the steps also. Miracles happen at the Limen Recovery + Wellness every day and I know this to be true because I am one of them.
Michelle S.

Ryan Before I came to the Limen Recovery + Wellness I had no control over any aspect of my life, I could not hold a job or even get hired because I couldn't pass a drug test. I couldn't hold on to any healthy relationships with friends or family, I could not be trusted at all. I did poorly in school or didn't even show up because I was too fixated on getting the next high. Ryan I was homeless with no money wanted by the law all because of my disease of addiction. I just didn't see any way out other than suicide. I've been to multiple rehabs, halfway houses and mental health centers and I just couldn't get my life on track. In my 6th rehab facility, I was told about the Limen Recovery + Wellness. I decided to give it a shot because I didn't know how many shots I had left at recovery and life.

I went into the Limen Recovery + Wellness afraid of everything and wanting to die and just didn't know what to do. But I stuck with the program and my life and mindset completely changed for the best. Thanks to the house, all the staff, and the friends I made along the way, I was taught about the 12 step program, how to slow down, how to be an adult and how to be available for others instead of focusing on myself all the time like I did in active addiction. I now have a stable job, have an active bank account, I am able to pay bills and rent. I have a much better relationship with my family and have healthy relationships with friends. I now don't feel discontent with myself anymore. I feel freedom thanks to the Limen Recovery + Wellness, the 12 steps, and God. I am so thankful for this house and I recommend it to any addict or alcoholic that doesn't see any way out of their addiction like I did.
Ryan

Eddie When I arrived at Limen Recovery + Wellness, I was completely broken. I was fresh out of my 8th rehab. Lonely, broken and defeated, I walked through the door with no other options at my disposal. Immediately, I started to hear things like “stay”, “just breathe”, “we are glad that you are here” and “God is in these walls”. All of this made me extremely uncomfortable. I was away from my family, facing a potential divorce and living with complete strangers. My first instinct was to run. My way of handling uncomfortable situations was to escape in any way, shape, or form that I could. I had no idea how to handle life without a substance in my body or some other outside distraction that would pull me away from my reality. I remember constantly wanting to be on the go and Limen Recovery + Wellness would tell me to “just sit” and “be available”.
Eddie Lord Slowly but surely, I began to settle in. I don’t remember when, but at a certain point in my process I just knew that everything would be ok. Limen Recovery + Wellness slowed me down and forced me to work on the real problem...me. Limen Recovery + Wellness taught me to find gratitude in situations that I normally would never find it.They helped me grasp the concepts of humility, availability and willingness. Although I may not have liked their tactics at the time, they truly saved my life. They forced me to get uncomfortable, and taught me that things would be just fine as long as I stayed the course. Most importantly, Limen Recovery + Wellness gave me the time that was necessary for me to have another shot at life. Through my housemates, I was taught how to lean on another man for help. Through the alumni coming back to share their message, or for house events and outings, I saw that this way of life really works. The sense of community and family that I felt and still feel, is something unlike anything else that I have experienced. My life today is dramatically different than the life that I lived before, and it is solely because Limen Recovery + Wellness gave me the time to change.
Eddie Lord

Brian There's a sign on the wall at Limen Recovery + Wellness, and it says Time at Limen Recovery + Wellness is Very Valuable. It took a couple month's for me to really understand what that meant. Before coming to the house I had no idea on how to live life. The only thing that mattered to me was getting drunk, and running from myself. The problem was, I was always there. I remember feeling like this most if my life. Not really knowing how to fit in or just be comfortable in a normal everyday setting. When I had my first drink it was such a relief. I had discovered something that made me feel like I did fit in. Talking to people, and hanging out places became much easier. The thing is I couldn't stop. Looking back I see the progression of my disease. I would always take it one step farther. Over the last 20 plus years alcohol surely became my master.

Brian Connor I checked into my 3rd rehab on 07/25/2018. This time the pain was enough, I had surrendered. I checked in with my case manager (Adam Centers) after a few days, and I saw a poster on the wall for Limen Recovery + Wellness. He began to tell me about it, and I started to think it was what I needed. I made a decision a few days after our conversation to come to Limen. I walked through the door on August 23rd of 2018, and my life took a turn. I learned how to breathe in that house, I learned how to be available, learned structure, I learned how to live.

What Limen Recovery + Wellness does is give you time. It gave me time to work on myself. Over the last year my thinking has changed dramatically. I see things differently, and because of the time I was given my life has new meaning. With a little bit if willingness my life is becoming something that I never thought could happen. Past Alumni would ways say there is something in the walls of that house. I believe that is true, and I came to believe at that house because I was given time.
Brian Connor

Rose My name is Rose, and I am an alcoholic/drug addict, who hasn’t found it necessary to pick up any and all mood and mind-altering substances, since April 17th, 2014. THAT is the miracle and magic, for which Limen Recovery + Wellness is directly responsible, in helping me, along with my HP to obtain, one day at a time, to present. It is a direct result of learning, and then, putting into practice, a program of action, shown to me, by my first sober support network- the counselors, alumni, friends of and fellow residents of Limen Recovery + Wellness. How do I put a lifetime of ‘thank yous’ owed to these countless agents, in a few short paragraphs? In true Limen fashion, of course- GRATITUDE! Limen taught me that gratitude is an action word, so I take action, and put my hand out to the next sick and suffering, to give back what was so freely give to me.

Rose My story is not unique. I started to experiment with alcohol and other substances, for the effect produced—or as I now know it to be, change of perception-- anything to escape my ideas and feelings of ‘self’, I was down to do, and I did. I took the drink, and the drink eventually took me. My progression was so distorted by denial and delusion, I was no longer capable of distinguishing my truths from reality. Fast forward 30yrs, I wanted the pain and consequences to stop. After the fog started lifting in rehab, I had a moment of clarity, and admitted to my GOD and myself, that I had no clue how to live sober. When Limen was suggested, I wholeheartedly took it-- after all, my family was in no hurry to see me return home. I was as desperate as the dying can be, to stay ‘stopped’, so I made a conscience decision to become honest, open-minded and willing to do the next right thing. Limen became my safehaven, living in community with women doing the same thing I was—trying to get another day.

Selfcare started with keeping in a routine, or conditioning, of getting up in the morning, proper nutrition, showering and keeping clean clothes. Immediately followed by prayer and meditation, along with daily meetings of Alcoholics Anonymous, I would begin to master the ordinary. Limen afforded me the small disciplines that would, one day, make the BIGGEST rule, for THIS alcoholic, attainable— I became able, one day at a time, to no longer “but the lie”, that I can drink safely, sanely and socially. The counselors in Limen Recovery + Wellness loved me until I felt worthy of loving myself. Through self-examination, honest appraisal, identifying behaviors, and adopting new ideas and attitudes, I learned acceptance, and started to clean up the wreckage of my past. I would be saturated in the Program of AA, and work with a sponsor, who has shown me how to stay right where my feet are, to remain present. To say that my life has changed exponentially, in the Realm of the Spirit, would absolutely be an understatement.

Today, I live a life beyond my wildest dreams-- I am a productive member of society. I am a wife, daughter, mother, sister and friend. My family has affectionately titled Limen Recovery + Wellness, as “The House that Brought You Home”, and there have never been truer words spoken. We are all here because someone never gave up on us, thank you, Limen Recovery + Wellness for being a huge “someone” in my process!
#LIMENSTRONG

Rose Hello, my name is Tim. Two years ago, I found myself deeps within the grasp of my addiction. The disease had taken me to a place so dark and lonely. I had become a shell of a human being that I couldn’t even recognize in the mirror anymore. Tim After 10 years of living in the shadow of my disease; the pain had finally become unbearable. I was scared, alone, and most concerning of all I had no idea what to do or how to fix it. I had no choice left, but to ask for help.

Finally, the pain had become too great and the gift of desperation had set in upon me. I thank God every day that when I reached that point the Limen Recovery + Wellness was there to extend a helping hand. I truly believe the program and the staff there saved my life. Without the Limen Recovery + Wellness I cannot begin to fathom how despicable my life would have become by now. The program, the fellowship, and the network they introduced me to has changed my entire life and made me a better person. For that I will remain eternally grateful.

Hello, my name is Patrick Malone, I am Limen Recovery + Wellness Alumni from 2016. My journey to Limen Recovery + Wellness was like many other Alchoholics and addicts, I was mentally and spiritually broken, been through numerous rehabs, stints in jail, and was in a hopeless cycle, unable and unwilling to stay sober. I woke up on July 27th 2016 in a homeless shelter in Philadelphia, and little did I know what was happening behind the scenes, it was one of those ‘God was doing for me what I could not do myself’ moments. I received a call from my cousin asking me if I wanted to get help, and he had a friend who is a Limen Recovery + Wellness Alumni, that wanted to talk to me. I had a conversation with this Alumni, and he explained this opportunity and if i was interested in an interview. I had nothing to lose, and was able to get an interview and was accepted into the Limen Recovery + Wellness.

Patrick Malone
Pat on the far right
with some of his Limen Recovery + Wellness brothers I walked through that threshold on August 5th, and was welcomed by my brothers with open arms! I had no idea what the next 8 months living there would do for my life and sobriety! I was told I need to slow down, listen, be available and be accountable! My counselor Vinnie, did not hold back, and would tell me the things I needed to hear, and I didn't like it because it was the truth! I went through the house with some amazing men, who I call my best friends today. Together we grew, did step work, and build a bond we still have this day.

Since leaving the Limen Recovery + Wellness, I transitioned to the Step Down house, and was able to use the tools taught to me the previous 8 months. After leaving the Step Down house, I was given an opportunity to come back and work as the Resident Assistant, which was an amazing experience to give back and help the residents! Since leaving that position, I help coordinate Alumni/resident events, and have worked in the recovery field! I have an amazing relationship with my family today, and have an strong support group of sober men! I could write all day about what the Limen Recovery + Wellness has given me the opportunity to do in my life! I am grateful for all these things, and look forward to walking through that threshold every opportunity I have these days!

I always knew I was predisposed to be an alcoholic but I thought I had beaten the odds. Sure I was told about some events that happened when I was drinking. I figured they were blown out of proportion or people were just story telling. But, then, I never understood why people were passing out in my house or barfing in my bathroom. What was wrong with these people? They simply did not know how to drink. Really – What was wrong with me?

Alcohol became my master. Before I knew what was happening and much to my dismay, I was the one with the problem. I tried a geographical change and stayed ‘clean’ for several years. It’s clear now that I was in a downward spiral lurking to drink again. Before long I was in worse shape than ever before. The progression is real. I was on and off this roller coaster with my husband for two years until, the Limen Recovery + Wellness introduced me to a means of recovery – in other words a Threshold to Recovery!

On Christmas Eve, my sister said we lost our brother last year and Mom two years prior and she prefer not bury me too. On Christmas Day my sponsor took time away from her family to come see me and told me I was going to die if I went home again only to repeat the same path my husband and I had been on for the last two years. I was willing to repeat the same cycle because it was the only path I knew – in the moment I honestly believed this time would be different. My sponsor told me to go to the Limen Recovery + Wellness – If they have space, it is a gift from God – it is a gift of Life!

The Limen Recovery + Wellness became my bridge to pave the path; to answer my questions, to help me understand my feelings, address my fears, create healthy boundaries, use my voice, face challenges and stay sober. I continue to learn new skills and to make each day the best day possible. Everything I learn and everything I am today I owe to the village of help I am given. Thanks to the Limen Recovery + Wellness, I have a grateful heart and am happy to be alive today.

Hi I’m Vinnie Garibaldi
I am an Alumni from 2009 that came to the Limen Recovery + Wellness from Kirkwood Detox in Wilmington. In 2007 after hitting my bottom in which I was homeless, unemployable and completely broken in spirit I came to Delaware from New Jersey and entered the Salvation Army program. Vinnie Garibaldi
Vinnie Garibaldi After completing that program, I relapsed and went to Kirkwood Detox on April 29,2009 and to Limen Recovery + Wellness from there. At the age of 52 I faced the humbling fact that my disease has taken me to the brink of death and my life was devoid of loving relationships and worldly possessions. The Limen Recovery + Wellness taught me that if I admitted to this fact and surrendered to their process I would begin to heal. I bought in! I needed to be taught the basic tasks of daily life, when to wake up, eat, shower, and go to sleep. The counselors at the Limen Recovery + Wellness taught me to face and address the wreckage of my past by contacting courts, the IRS and taking care of my physical and mental health. I went to 2 AA meetings per day, worked the 12 steps of AA and obtained an AA sponsor. I was submerged in and surrounded by the AA community and knew I couldn't do this alone and that I didn't have to. At that point I had hope and began to heal. The most important thing that Limen Recovery + Wellness taught me was that gratitude would keep me sober and that gratitude was an action. If I wanted to stay sober, I would have to give back, show others that they can get sober, and find a power greater them me. I have found that power and it is called the Limen Recovery + Wellness.

Hi my name is Jenny and I am a Limen Recovery + Wellness Alumni, it’s truly an honor to be asked to share a little about me and how the Limen Recovery + Wellness has given me the opportunity to change my life. My clean date is August 13th 2017. I will never forget that day and that feeling of total defeat. I was so numb and broken, the only thing that got me to those doors that day was this little spark of hope that I had buried so deep inside me it was almost untouchable, that spark of hope kept me alive. That little spark of hope that I felt that day started me on my journey to a new found freedom that I never knew was possible. From the moment I walked through the doors of the Women’s Limen Recovery + Wellness for my interview I started to feel like I could breathe again, the weight of my world seemed less heavy somehow. I just knew from that moment on as long as I never gave up or gave in I was going to be okay. My change started with the basic things, like waking up every morning and making my bed and getting the time to sit with my feelings and be available to others, then change started to blossom in all aspects of my life.

Jenny
 A little about me, I grew up and was surrounded by complete chaos. A life full of violence and alcoholism there wasn’t a lot of good moments in my childhood and as far as having a higher power or anything to guide me I was alone, I was non-existing in my world. Everything I went through was never talked about. I relied on myself for survival. I was on my own by the time I was 14 yrs old and it stayed that way until I was introduced to the Limen Recovery + Wellness, its staff and the people I was able to connect to when I was at Limen Recovery + Wellness. While there I began to talk about some things and learned a lot about myself. Most importantly I learned why I reacted the way I did to so many different things in my life. I had a brick wall that I built around me, I built it to protect myself, and I was never going to allow anything in that could hurt me again. By doing that I not only blocked myself from being harmed I also blocked myself from being loved. Ultimately I ended up soulless, broken and addicted to anything that stopped me from feeling my feelings. I was trapped in a cycle that I thought could never end. I had tried rehabs and treatment centers on and off throughout the years and I was able to stay sober for periods of time, I would gain all the things back that I lost but I still remained with that hole in my soul. During my stay at the Limen Recovery + Wellness things happened to me that were out of my control, things that took me from broken to shattered with nothing left inside. A member of the Limen Recovery + Wellness staff looked me in my eyes and told me it was going to be okay, she told me not to give up, that this too shall pass and from this moment on I never had to be alone again. It took some time, but I now know I had to be shattered, I had to get rid of everything inside of me to make room in my heart and soul for others, for forgiveness and for love. Words could never express the gratitude that I have for the Limen Recovery + Wellness program and family. From being there I was able to move those bricks from the wall I had surrounded myself with, I was able to get rid of a lot of things that kept me hostage and I was able to gain the greatest gift of all, me and a connection with my higher power who I realized on this journey has been with me all along. My journey began from that tiny little spark of hope. That spark had space and time to grow and I am no longer a hopeless 14 year old little girl. Today I wake up and realize that every day is a miracle and I have been truly blessed for my new way of life. I would not have found my way without the relationships I made from my time and experience at Limen Recovery + Wellness. My name is Jenny and I am a grateful recovery alcoholic. Thank you for the opportunity to share my story.

Hi, I am Sean McCauley
I am an Alumni from 2000 that came to Limen Recovery + Wellness via the Whittsitt Center down in Chestertown, Md. Sean McCauley
Sean McCauley I must admit I think I am one of the lucky ones. My bottom was truly something I had never felt before and for the first time in my life I was available for help and not just to manipulate the situation. I had a great Counselor at Limen and new something was important especially regarding step 3 because that's what was on his license plate. Limen Recovery + Wellness showed me how to begin a structured day and work on basic things like hygiene and structured meals. Counselors walked me through the 12 steps and showed me how to find a supportive AA sponsor. I never knew how much was going on behind the scenes of Limen Recovery + Wellness but today while being a CM/CADC at the Men’s house I have been given a much deeper appreciation towards this house and those that support this process. I have wonderful co-workers today that help me to continue to evolved my recovery process and be able to give back to Limen what TRULY WAS FREELY GIVEN TO ME.

I have been able to continue my sobriety based on the foundations that were shown to me in the early days of my recovery by Limen Recovery + Wellness. Many 12 step meetings, Big Book studies, evening group and morning groups were a central part of the treatment process. Limen Recovery + Wellness showed me how to deeper surrender and trust in my “HIGHER POWER” and when that’s not happening well, I have a great support network as an Alumni to bumper me back to my FAITH.

Hi my name is Megan. My journey began as another “quick fix” into detox to look good to the Board of Nursing in an attempt to get my nursing license back, and have my DUI repercussions lessened. As always, reacting on my delusional thinking and manipulative ways that my drinking and drugging career taught me. I was still in denial that I had a problem. I lost my career, my driver’s license, my daughter, my dignity and my family. I was homeless, but my disease tricked me to believe that I was still living a manageable life and that I was in control.

Megan
 After detox they said go to Gaudenzia, so I went for two months. After that I went to another long-term rehabilitation for four months, and then got my interview for Limen Recovery + Wellness. I was on a variety of mental health medications because that became my next way to manipulate doctors to prescribe me medications so I could not feel, I could still be numb. But Limen Recovery + Wellness gave me a chance. As soon as I walked into that house I felt this indescribable feeling of peace. I was accepted and that was the beginning to my new way of living.

Limen Recovery + Wellness gave me the foundation to my recovery. They loved me until I loved myself. They introduced me to A.A. and the 12 steps, and helped guide me to find a sponsor which brought me peace, closure and acceptance. They helped me work through my shame and guilt from losing my daughter, which I believe kept me in my addiction. They also taught me this disease affects the mind, body and spirit, and how to feed them all. After working the 12 steps I now know it was my higher power who had me going from rehab to rehab until finally getting into Limen Recovery + Wellness. Today I have my daughter back full-time. I have my nursing license where I work in the Behavioral Health Field. But I am also a story that life shows up after you get clean and sober. I had a surprise pregnancy, and an even bigger surprise, they were twins. But Limen Recovery + Wellness and A.A. taught me that I can get through anything sober. My worse day sober is still better than my “best” day in addiction and alcoholism. I now am a mother to two 11-month-old boys and a 9-year-old girl, a fiancé, a friend, a present daughter and sister and I sponsor women. I know I am worthy and deserving of the life I have today, a life beyond my wildest dreams. I am forever grateful for the Limen Recovery + Wellness for giving me a chance.

Hi I’m Lavena Bell.

My experience at the Limen Recovery + Wellness has been an enriching one. I arrived at Limen Recovery + Wellness August 2016 and was welcomed into the house by the ladies who were residing there at the time.

I was introduced to my counselor Debbie Pisan. Although still hesitant about being in new surroundings, after speaking with Debbie I felt a lot less anxious. The ladies at the house were also very welcoming. Being able to slowly let my guard down was one of my first of many lessons I had to learn. At first, I didn’t know what being transparent meant, and once I did find out I thought it as being more challenging than anything I’ve encountered in life so far. I have learned that being transparent is being honest and honesty takes way less effort than anything else.

Limen Recovery + Wellness provided the foundation and structure for me to reconstruct my life. Through talking with my counselor and the ladies residing at the house, I found out that I am not that unique, and that through talking through problems I will usually find a better solution than what I would trying to find the answers alone.

Steve K
There I was, emotionless, empty. A void which I filled with alcohol daily. It was my only escape, my true passion in a mundane existence I molded to be my reality. I have two daughters who were not even second to this disease and they missed their dad. Sure on the odd occasion I was not drunk or hungover we would go out to the park and have a great time but those moments were getting shorter and shorter until POOF, they were gone and vodka had taken over every aspect of my life.

Steve K
 It was a very dark place to be, being consumed, powerless over alcohol. I couldn’t even bring myself to get off the couch unless the bottle was around. There was seemingly no point. I wanted to be the best at everything, but I couldn’t handle anything. The only solution I had was more and more alcohol. Happy times: alcohol, sad times: alcohol, indifferent times: alcohol. The spiraling “out of control” was in full effect, and the staircase was ending. One day I had enough.

I had shown up at a detox center on December 9, 2017 not knowing what to expect. I was just there. From there I was accepted into the Limen Recovery + Wellness and that’s when the miracles began to happen for me. The Limen Recovery + Wellness afforded me an opportunity to quell my diseased thinking. It gave me a chance not many get; a chance to find a Higher Power. Through the Limen Recovery + Wellness I met my sponsor and countless men and women who guided me in the right direction on the road to sobriety.

Limen Recovery + Wellness shows love and compassion to us who need it most some days. I have been able to reconnect with my family, especially my daughters. Not just in the physical sense of seeing them, but to be present for them emotionally as well. That void spoken about earlier continues to be filled each day by God. And I thank Limen Recovery + Wellness for putting me in contact with Him. I thank Limen Recovery + Wellness for saving my life.
Peace, Love and Happiness,
Steve

My name is Freddie K and I am an alcoholic and drug addict. It took me long time understand and accept that statement. For most of my life I was convinced I was insane because being insane would be better than being an alcoholic or an addict. There is nothing on which I can blame my alcoholism. My childhood was idealistic, at least on the outside. My parents were very loving and caring and provided everything I could ever ask for and more. To an outside observer my childhood was perfect but on the inside, it was a very different story.

Freddie K
Freddie K For as long as I can remember I never felt comfortable just being me. I was always nervous and shy and extremely anxious all the time. I felt as though I just didn’t fit in this world. Even at home with my family I felt like an outsider. There was something vital that everyone else had but which was missing in me, it seemed. Life was unbearably uncomfortable and by the time I had reached the 5th grade I was ready to be done with it. I didn’t want to be apart of this world anymore. But the love of my family kept me hanging on a few more years.

The summer before high school everything changed for me. My friends had already begun experimenting with drinking and smoking weed. I vividly remember the night I gave in and smoked weed for the first time. It was the closest thing I had come to in life thus far to a spiritual experience. All my feelings of inferiority and anxieties and the weight on me just lifted and my skin felt like it fit and I found that vital thing that I was missing. From that day on I chased that feeling relentlessly and with abandon. Nothing else in life would matter.

My drug use escalated and I was eventually using heroin intravenously. I became someone I never imagined I would be. Through years of drug use I had isolated myself from the world even further than when I began getting high. I found myself homeless and in and out of detox, rehabs, and psych wards. I had become resigned to this life and I knew there could be nothing else for me. When I realized that the drugs weren’t doing their job anymore and I wasn’t getting numb and I would most likely go on the rest of my life this way I reached out for help. I went to detox one more time and through what I can only call an act of God I got into the Limen Recovery + Wellness.

This is where something miraculous happened. On June 11, 2012 my journey in Limen Recovery + Wellness began. Limen Recovery + Wellness gave me so many gifts and I could go on for pages describing how awesome Limen Recovery + Wellness is. When I came crawling begrudgingly through Limen Houses front door I was a broken shell of a person. I didn’t say more than two words to anyone for my first two months because I didn’t know how to interact with other people. During my time in the house I was shown a new way to live. I was given hope through AA and the 12 steps which Limen Recovery + Wellness directed me to. I was also taught that I wasn’t alone in the world like I had always believed. I wasn’t broken beyond repair.

In Limen Recovery + Wellness I gained friendships and bonds with men that I will have forever. I consider my counselor at Limen Recovery + Wellness one of my best friends and I still talk to with him every day. Next year I will be the best man in the wedding of one of my best friends with whom I was in Limen Recovery + Wellness. I have a life today which I never in my wildest dreams imagined I would be living. I am comfortable in my skin today and my life is so full of love and friendship and it is all thanks to Limen Recovery + Wellness.

I’m Freddie K and I’m and alcoholic and drug addict

Cathy Delaney
On August 13, 2017 my life was about to change. I was on my way out of this life, but God had another plan!! My name is Cathy Delaney. I never thought I would be grateful for a trip to the ER, but this was the beginning of my journey to the Limen Recovery + Wellness.

Cathy Delaney
 I lost everything: career, house, cars, and worst of all; family. I have a son, 26, a daughter, 29, and two granddaughters (2 and 13). After watching me struggle with addiction, they had to cut ties with me in order to live their own lives. I had tried to gain sobriety many times, but it was not working. My life just continued to spiral out of control. My daughter and sister came to see me in the hospital. I hadn’t spoken to either one of them in quite some time. They strongly encouraged me to get help, and I listened to them. I became willing to accept help. I went to rehab where it was recommended that I go to the Limen Recovery + Wellness. I had never heard of the Limen Recovery + Wellness, but I agreed, went on the interview and was accepted. I had no idea what a privilege this was.

The Limen Recovery + Wellness is a beautiful place to live physically; but, more important, it is a beautiful place to grow spiritually. I was able to practice self-care, daily routine, prayer and meditation. I was introduced to AA which, as it turns out, is the medicine I need for my addiction. I received the best counseling. I formed lasting relationships with the women in the house. I found the perfect sponsor.

My family could see a change in me and were willing to let me back in their lives. What a blessing! As if that weren’t enough, Limen Recovery + Wellness helped me find employment to become financially responsible again. Today, I am present in my children’s lives, and they are present in mine. My kids threw me a 60th birthday party and surprised me by having my extended family attend. It was awesome!

It’s easy when life is good. When tragedy strikes, that’s when you have to use everything you’ve learned to cope. I just lost someone very special to me to addiction. The Limen Recovery + Wellness gave me the tools needed to get through this tragedy………sober.

God bless the Limen Recovery + Wellness!

My name is Colin and I’m an alcoholic and drug addict. The majority of individuals I meet now are unaware of this, yet in the summer of two-thousand and nine when I entered the Limen House it was blatantly obvious. At this point in my life alcohol and drugs were very progressively killing me.

Colin
Colin Having entered my first outpatient treatment facility as a sophomore in high school, I was acutely aware that I had a problem with alcohol and drugs. However, it took me another seven years of pain, fear, self-loathing and loss to truly inwardly accept this personal truth. I had to experience utter demoralization by ending up in detoxes, sanitariums, jails and homeless. I had to have everything that I cherished and everyone that I loved stripped away from me in order to fully surrender and accept the help I most desperately needed.

At the age of twenty-two I was accepted and subsequently court mandated to the Limen Recovery + Wellness. This was after a brief sentence in jail followed by a stay in a thirty day treatment facility. It was at the Limen Recovery + Wellness that my seeming new life/second chance would begin. The counselors, the Limen Recovery + Wellness program and my sponsor guided me through the life altering process of change which became the foundation of my recovery and my life. I made lifelong friends, the majority of whom are still sober today, including my great friend Vincent Garibaldi who is now a counselor at the men’s Limen Recovery + Wellness.

Upon completion of the Limen Recovery + Wellness program, I found work in the medical field through friends in the recovery community. This job led to an interest in helping people in need through physical therapy. I returned to school and received an Associates degree in Exercise Science from DTCC followed by a Bachelors degree in Exercise Physiology from University of Delaware. Despite the odds, I was accepted into the Doctor of Physical Therapy program at Jefferson University in Philadelphia, where I am currently a second year student.

More importantly, I have been honored throughout my recovery to give back to the community and to those who struggle with alcoholism and addiction. I gratefully serve on the Amethyst Ball committee in support of the Limen Recovery + Wellness, and was a co-founder of DECYPAA along with a number of other altruistic endeavors throughout the years. Today my family is back in my life, I accepted myself and came out as a gay man, I have fallen in love and have had that love fade away, i have traveled all over the country and parts of the world, I have gotten to see my nieces and nephew be born and grow to be toddlers. I have witnessed my friends marry those they love. I’ve lost family members and childhood friends to this disease. None of this would be possible without my family, my sponsor, the Limen Recovery + Wellness, AA and my conception of God. On June 7th, 2018 I celebrated nine years sober. I am still far from perfect, but today my life and soul are completely full! My name is Colin and I am a recovering alcoholic and drug addict.

Thank you for letting me share.

Hi I'm Nicole,
My journey in sobriety began on June 10, 2006. I remember that day as if it were yesterday. I woke up in a place that I had been before, a painful dark lonely place. I can remember being angry, angry that I woke up. Many nights I prayed to who I thought was "God" to take my life and put me out of the pain that I was in. Pain that I had been running from since I was 12.

Nicole
 At age12 I had my first drink and by age 17 I was addicted to heroin. I had been in many treatment centers, halfway houses, and outpatient programs. I was fortunate enough to enter Limen Recovery + Wellness and stay for 14 months. I will forever be grateful for my time there. I came in a broken woman and left with a sense of purpose. Purpose that I never knew I could have. Living in the Limen Recovery + Wellness gave me connection to the AA community and people who loved me and cared for me. Limen Recovery + Wellness taught me how to love myself and most importantly what it meant to be a responsible woman. I learned that I wasn’t alone and that I could ask for help. Limen Recovery + Wellness gave me courage and strength to do the things that were necessary to get sober.

Over the 11 years that I have been sober, I have created a life I never would have imagined. I was able to go to college and get a Bachelors degree and other certifications. I got married and have two beautiful boys. I will forever be grateful for the Limen Recovery + Wellness. I has given me a life of purpose.

I AM A Limen Recovery + Wellness MIRACLE.

My name is Kelsey. Prior to the Limen Recovery + Wellness I was a worthless, homeless, heroin and crack-cocaine addict. My life was consumed with hustling and hatred. I had edge that cut deep, and grit I could not shake. If you felt how I felt, you would have understood the hell I breathed. The life of addiction was a constant up and down rollercoaster, and all of my family and loved ones were painfully strapped to the back. I CARED ABOUT ABSOLUTELY NOTHING BUT MY NEXT HIT.

Kelsey
Kelsey Limen Recovery + Wellness changed it all for me. Debbie and Sister Margie taught me to “put the gloves down,” that I no longer had to fight everybody and everything. I learned how to practice compassion and an open-mind. They taught me how to positively deal with life, people, and any situation as it comes. I WAS DOING IT! I was staying sober, and handling life. Debbie showed me how to “master the ordinary.” I held a job, saved money, paid rent, got a drivers license, went to AA meetings, and remained present in family and friends lives.

Thanks to the Limen Recovery + Wellness I am graced with love and life. A chance at life was given back to me, and now the gift of giving life. I am a proud mother to my 16 month old son named Mack, and I couldn't be more happy or grateful. I am engaged to the kindest and most exquisite man that I have ever met, (also a fellow alumni). I am an artist as well as a responsible and productive member of society. The universe has filled my life with love, peace, and happiness that I wouldn't change for the world. I AM NOW A BEAUTIFUL SOBER WOMAN.

Hi I’m Amy.

Growing up, I wondered what my life would look like as an adult. Amy
 I would have never imagined at 22 I would become a homeless drug addict. I didn't understand addiction; I thought I had control over it, that it was just a matter of will power. I deceived everyone I loved. I had been cheating my way through life, grasping for any opportunity I could to numb myself, even if that meant I had to lie and steal to get what I wanted – what I needed. I woke up to a merry go round every day that I just couldn't get off of. I cried for help in ways that hurt my family; I felt that if I could just end it, everyone would be better off. I was dying inside and the alcohol just wasn't dulling it anymore. It wasn't working, and I couldn't stop. I was unable to see how selfish I was, insensitive to what I was doing to the people who loved me. I was the living dead, a shell of who I had once been.

I entered detox for the last time in 2012. I was unaware that this would be the last time. After 7 months in rehab, I landed myself in the Limen Recovery + Wellness. Prior to my stay, I was uncertain of who I was and ignorant to who I was about to become. Limen Recovery + Wellness introduced me to a solid 12 step program, placed my hand in the hand of God's, and loved me until I was able to love myself. Debbie and Sister Margie trusted me, they saw something in me that I couldn't (or wouldn't) see in myself. They taught me self-respect, and how to walk with dignity. I tear up as right this right now because Limen Recovery + Wellness has given me a life I would have never imagined myself having. I am unable to properly put into words my gratitude for the transformation that took place; however, what I can say is that I love the Limen Recovery + Wellness. I will have 6 years of continuous sobriety this year and that wouldn't have been possible if I wasn't shown the way. I am actively involved with Limen Alumni and have the honor of sponsoring one of the residents - these are contributions that show my gratitude. I have a beautiful life today, a family that trusts me, and true friends who don't give up on me. Limen Recovery + Wellness took a chance on me and I will always remember that.

Amy, a grateful Limen Alumni

My Name is Tim Brainard and I am a sober, active alumnus of Limen Recovery + Wellness. On March 6, I celebrated three years of continuous sobriety.
I picked up my first drink at age 9 and have struggled with alcoholism and drug addiction my whole life. My ultimate decline was like that of many others in Delaware: I found prescription opioids, which led to a heroin addiction that depleted me of everything that mattered in my life. I lost four jobs, lost my family, became homeless and had trouble with the law. I made unsuccessful attempts at getting sober through rehab. Finally, I walked into detox weighing 130 pounds, with a trash bag holding all I had left in the world over my shoulder. I was bankrupt physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually.


Tim I went from detox to Gateway Foundation, and then to Limen Recovery + Wellness where I stayed just over eight months. The minute I walked into the doors of Limen Recovery + Wellness I felt a sense of ease and comfort, as I was welcomed by staff, residents, and alumni. I have been through other treatment programs and detox, but my Limen Recovery + Wellness experience is truly one of a kind. The individualized treatment and education of the disease concept, and the staff of counselors who guided me through were unparalleled. Limen Recovery + Wellness gave me the time to begin to heal and just become a better human being.

The only real difficulty I faced was when it came time to re-enter the world with my newfound sobriety, getting back to work and into the stream of life again. I was guided through by the staff, with support from the growing network of sober friends I now had in my corner. My counselor suggested I move to Limen Recovery + Wellness Level II sober living so I could approach this new way of life in a pragmatic way and put into practice what I had learned. I stayed with the Level II house for over seven months.

On March 6, I celebrated three years of continuous sobriety. My family relationships have healed and been restored. My employment as a peer specialist with Connections Community Support Program allows me to work with other people who are like me, and offer hope to them as Limen Recovery + Wellness offered to me. I am fully independent, living in my own apartment in Wilmington near Limen Recovery + Wellness, and have a car that is titled and insured in my name. This may seem a small deal to other people, but for a guy like me who walked into detox with nothing, these accomplishments are all small miracles.

I continually visit Limen Recovery + Wellness to attend alumni meetings, have dinner with the residents, and to keep in contact with all the counselors. I also visit to offer hope to the residents, as the alumni did for me during my stay.

Once the spirit of Limen Recovery + Wellness entered my heart and soul, I knew it was there to stay. This is why I donate financially and volunteer at Limen Recovery + Wellness and its events. My heart is full because of what Limen Recovery + Wellness has done for me, and I truly want other people to be afforded the same opportunity.

There are many signs in and around Limen Recovery + Wellness, but I have to say that my favorite sign sits out front. It says, “Sometimes the wrong choices bring us to the right places.” How very true this is of my Limen Recovery + Wellness experience.

I’m Josh and I was very fortunate to have been able to go through the Limen Recovery + Wellness in 2013.

Joshua
 I had abused drugs and alcohol for more than a decade. I had tried many different things to kick my addiction before landing in the Limen Recovery + Wellness. When I arrived I was physically, mentally, and spiritually broken. I could hardly look in the mirror, as I was ashamed at what I saw. I had lost everything and was even losing the support from my family and friends. I was disconnected from society and couldn’t hold a job. I didn’t see a way out.

By the time I came through the door of the Limen Recovery + Wellness I was hoping that I would get better and someday be normal. Deep down, I didn’t believe that would ever really happen. Immediately, I was welcomed by the staff and the other residents and felt like I was part of the group. I was in the house for the first couple months but wasn’t fully committed. Because of that, I wasn’t getting the results I wanted or hoped for.

It was at this point, I truly believe, that God intervened in my life and gave me a feeling that I never experienced before. It was hope- and it changed everything. (I get goose bumps right now just remembering and describing it.) I wasn’t just going through the motions anymore just to get by and keep staff off my back. I was now doing what I was supposed to do because I believed that I could get better, and I wanted to do it. I started feeling better and better. I left the Limen Recovery + Wellness in a much better condition than when I arrived.

Today I still attend AA and a lot of the same meetings that Limen Recovery + Wellness introduced me to. I’m still really good friends with most of the guys I was in the house with and many alumni. I have built a network of supportive people that I may have never met if it weren’t for Limen Recovery + Wellness.

I cannot express all of the love and gratitude I have for Limen Recovery + Wellness in this short letter but I am forever grateful for what the Limen Recovery + Wellness has done for me and others.

My name is Ray.
It was hard to put into words how much of an impact Limen Recovery + Wellness has had on my perspective on life. Ray
 I walked into that house like many alcoholics over the years, broken and full of anger toward myself. Once again I had ruined everything and pushed all of the people who cared about me away due to my obsession with drugs and alcohol. I didn't know what was wrong with me, why couldn't I stop?

I could tell that Limen Recovery + Wellness was different from the very first day. I was surrounded by people who had lived through the same misery as me, and had found a new way to live. They didn't just tell me I suffered from a disease, they showed me by bringing to my attention, on a daily basis, just how far from a healthy lifestyle my thinking and ideas can be. They made me take it slow, and I was forced to sit with myself and face my feelings. It was extremely uncomfortable at first, but slowly it became easier. Limen Recovery + Wellness was the beginning of my journey inward. I began to know and love myself for the first time in my life. They helped me get connected with a program where I met some of the best friends I've ever known. Before Limen Recovery + Wellness I would've never thought I could live a life this full of love and hope, or have a heart full of gratitude for every minute of it.

Hi, I’m Danielle A.
I had done it again. Danielle
 After successfully completing the Limen Recovery + Wellness and obtaining 9 months of sobriety, I decided to drink and drug. Knowing exactly where it would take me, what a scary place to be. It didn’t last long though because I ended up overdosing, nearly killing myself. All I can remember is waking up in the hospital asking myself, "How could I have let this happen again?"

Luckily, the Limen Recovery + Wellness offered me a second chance, allowing me to go to their Level 2 House. On February 13, 2017, I walked through the door crippled by guilt and shame. I was completely defeated, broken and alone. I was in such a dark place and had lost all hope. But little did I know that day was the beginning of a new life for me. The Limen Recovery + Wellness gave me a safe and structured environment to rebuild my spirit. There I found a new sponsor and began to work the steps again. I was in a house full of women who were trying to obtain the same thing as I, sobriety. I felt a bond with these women like no other, and received the love and acceptance that I desperately longed for.

Today I can say that I have found gratitude for the relapse in which I walked through the door feeling so ashamed of. I have had an entirely new experience working through the steps with my sponsor and with God. The Limen Recovery + Wellness introduced me to my solution, and a freedom I wouldn’t have found anywhere else. The Limen Recovery + Wellness will forever hold a special place in my heart and I will be eternally grateful to them. They saved my life not once, but twice.

My name is Ashley. I am a recovering sober woman, and I am FREE.

For so many years I was locked in a never-ending cycle of drugs and alcohol. I lost everything, multiple times. And in the end, I found myself in an abandoned building praying to a God, that I wasn't sure existed, to please help me or take me away. Laying there that morning, I found the strength to get up and start walking. I didn't know where I was going. It was as if someone was moving my legs for me.

Ashley
 What I found was the Limen Recovery + Wellness. The place that would teach me how to live.

They gave me the tools to cope with life on life's terms. They held me accountable. They encouraged me to dig down deep and let go of so much that was blocking me off from being genuinely happy. They gave me love... They gave me AA. And in AA I found FREEDOM. I built my relationships back with my family. I worked with a sponsor. And have built a solid foundation in recovery that is lasting.

I am forever grateful.

Ashley R.

My name is Adam Center and It is an honor to be asked to give my testimony Adam
 for all that Limen Recovery + Wellness has done for me. They took me off the streets December 24, 2011 and gave me the tools that I would need to change my life forever. During my “interview” Mike and Reggie said that they thought I would struggle in the program but agreed to give me a chance and immediately welcomed me. They said that they were giving my family and I the best Christmas present that I had ever gotten before. I will never forget the relief I felt when I realized that everything was going to be OK. I was 13 years old the first time I took a drink. My alcoholism would progress to heavy drinking and legal consequences by the time I was 14, my first institution by 15. That would be the course of the next 16 years of my life. My alcoholism demanded treatment and I found opiates. I would go on to experience all kinds of trauma but never enough to stop me from using. I tried everything that I could until finally, I received the gift of desperation. I ended up in a detox and was ready to follow directions. My twin brother told me to “put on your seatbelt and get ready for the ride of your life”, he was referring to sobriety.

The Limen Recovery + Wellness introduced me to AA and the 12 steps. I would get a sponsor and go through all twelve steps while in the house. I left a changed man and a believer. Today I live a normal life. I was able to graduate with my bachelor’s degree and am currently enrolled in a master’s program. I am able to be available for my 7-year-old son, Oscar and the rest of my family. My twin brother overdosed in August and I was able to show up for my family and lean on my foundation of recovery to cope with the loss. Limen Recovery + Wellness taught me to set goals and show up no matter what. I am forever grateful for the opportunity that Limen Recovery + Wellness has given me and the vision for my future that I clearly see today.

Adam C.