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Lakecia

My early years were spent in foster care until I was adopted. As I went through school, I realized things about my past were different from other kids. Eventually coming to terms with the truth about the abuse in my foster home, it took on a world of its own.

Hospitalized for suicide attempts, hallucinations, and much more, my life turned into years of therapy, different schools and treatment facilities, and numerous medications. Finally, after being diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, and major depression, I wanted to find a way to cope and have a better life despite my past.

After visiting the Clubhouse a couple times, I realized that this place was worth a try. I began working in the Business Unit and the Magnolia Clubhouse Shop—and then started speaking to staff about going back to work. I started working part-time at the Alcohol, Drug Addiction and Mental Health Services Board of Cuyahoga County, and I am now doing peer support work for Recovery Resources.

Having people supporting me changed my whole perspective of myself and my abilities—I know more than ever that my past is in the past and my future has limitless possibilities.