Stephanie’s Story

“On March 16, 2025, I arrived at Boca Recovery Center in Galloway, New Jersey, beginning a journey that would completely change my life.

For 15 years, I had been trapped in an addiction to alcohol. I had reached a point where I didn’t know how to stop. I needed alcohol just to function, and my withdrawals had become so severe that I knew I could not safely quit on my own.

My turning point came at an airport. I was denied boarding because the staff could smell alcohol on me. Until that moment, it had never even occurred to me that other people could smell it on me. That night, I made a phone call that, to this day, I don’t remember making. But I believe with all my heart that call was a blessing and a sign from my Higher Power. Somehow, even in the blackout state of mind I was in, I chose Boca.

The next day, I remember Boca’s staff calling me multiple times to check on me. That meant more than they probably realized. I knew I needed help, and that evening I got on a plane to New Jersey.

I was scared, nervous, and had absolutely no idea what to expect. But I knew Boca was my only hope. When I arrived, three incredibly kind and compassionate staff members immediately helped me through the withdrawals I was experiencing. Within a few hours, I was already feeling better.

I can still remember the exact place where I was standing when something changed inside me. For the first time in what felt like forever, I felt a sense of calm and relief. I knew I was safe.

The staff at Boca were understanding, compassionate, and there whenever I needed them. The counselors, especially Michaela, taught me and showed me how to begin living the life I had always wanted. I wasn’t there just to get sober—I was there to learn how to live.

And I listened.

I went to the meetings. I participated. I took the advice of people who knew better than I did. Boca offered art therapy, music therapy, excellent meals, and so many opportunities to heal and learn. But most importantly, they gave me people who believed that recovery was possible for me, even when I wasn’t sure I believed it myself.

I completed my 21 days at Boca, and when I left, I followed the advice I had been given: go to a meeting immediately. I did exactly that. I completed 90 meetings in 90 days, and I continue to attend meetings today.

My life since leaving Boca has been the best it has been in 20 years.

I laugh more. I smile more. I have my family back. I get to spend time with my nieces and nephews. I have built a successful pet-sitting business. I am healthier mentally, physically, and spiritually. I have found a community of people who understand me, support me, and are willing to listen.

Every Monday, I chair a Narcotics Anonymous meeting, and it has become one of the highlights of my week. I never could have imagined that the life I have today was possible when I was sitting in that airport, unable to board a plane because of my addiction.

One of the most meaningful things about Boca is that their support didn’t end when I walked out the door. They continue to check on me, and I remain in contact with members of the staff. Tracy, Michaela, and Kevin, just to name a few, made an enormous impact on my recovery. I will never forget what they did for me. I am also still in touch with people I met through the program.

Boca taught me something I will carry with me for the rest of my life: when I am willing to listen to the people who have walked this road before me and accept that I don’t always know what’s best for myself, I am capable of accomplishing things I never thought possible.

Today, I am living a life I once only dreamed about.

I thank Boca Recovery Center every single day for helping save my life. I am forever grateful for the staff, counselors, friends, and everyone who played a part in helping me find my way back to myself.

If you are struggling with addiction and wondering if there is hope, I want you to know that there is.

I know because I was there.

And today, I am living proof that your life can change.”