“Recovery: The Courage to Heal” A powerful journey of resilience and transformation, where every step forward is a testament to strength, determination, and the unwavering belief in a brighter tomorrow.

On September 28th, 2024, at the age of 76 and with 43 years of being clean and sober, I took the leap of a lifetime – skydiving from 15,000 feet. This thrilling experience was not only a personal triumph, but also a way to support a cancer charity, demonstrating that life in recovery is not just possible, but truly incredible.

Recovery has given me the strength and courage to take on challenges I never thought possible, and this jump symbolizes the heights we can all reach when we commit to positive change. It’s never too late to live fully, give back, and inspire others.

It’s in Recovery I realize that it’s not about just having a life; it’s about truly being alive.

**I am excited to share the captivating story of my extraordinary journey with you.

Believe I can: “I believe in myself, and that belief gets me halfway to my goals.

“Focus on progress: “I celebrate my progress, knowing perfection isn’t the goal—growth is.

“Rise up after failure: “My greatest triumph lies not in avoiding failure but in rising stronger every time I fall.

“Invest in myself: “I am worthy of my own time, energy, and care, and I invest in myself unapologetically.

“Ask for help: “When I ask for help, I honor my own self-awareness and respect my journey.”

As I move through my own recovery journey, I’ve come to understand that it’s a meaningful process of change—one that helps me improve my overall health and wellness, take ownership of my decisions, and strive toward my fullest potential. I know that this journey often unfolds in five distinct stages:

The five stages—Pre-contemplation, Contemplation, Preparation, Action, and Maintenance—each represent a critical step in the journey of personal growth and recovery.

Pre-contemplation is the starting point, where change might feel distant or unnecessary.
Contemplation follows, as awareness begins to grow and the idea of change takes root.
Preparation builds on that momentum, transforming intention into a solid plan.
Action is where the real work happens, with tangible steps toward change.
Maintenance ensures that progress becomes lasting, fostering sustainability and resilience.

Each stage is interconnected, reflecting the dynamic nature of personal transformation.