Part of recovery is putting your hand out to the newcomer.  I have been asked to share a few words with the people who may be reading this web site, maybe people who are looking for help for themselves, or people whose families are looking for a place to turn.

I don’t really know what to say, I am new at this myself.  I do know that this is the first place that really treated me like a person, not just an addict.  So many places are kind of mean and harsh.  Maybe that works for other people, but not for me.  Penn Foundation staff doesn’t look down on you because of your problems.  They are teaching me not to look down on myself too.  I am learning that I have the disease of addiction.

I was asked to share some hope with the people out there.  My hope for you is that you stop fighting and give up.  What I mean is, stop fighting everyone that wants to help you and give up the act, saying that everything is ok.  Accept the help that is being offered.