One Women's Story - Blythe

Thu, 22 Oct 2026 21:57:35 GMT

Going to Charlford was one of the best decisions I could’ve ever made.

I definitely didn’t see it in the moment, but looking back it was the most important thing I did for myself. It gave me a life worth living and friends for a lifetime.

I had lost relationships, jobs, money, schooling, and opportunities due to my substance abuse. I had nothing left and didn’t even realize it. I didn’t like myself anymore, but I couldn’t put it down. My family thought treatment was the best option for me, and although I had no idea what was in store for me, I hesitantly agreed.

Quickly after being there, I realized I couldn’t live the way I was living before. I was introduced to a new way of life and it was beautiful. I was surrounded by women just like me, and had never felt more understood before by the staff and the community. I also realized my recovery is more than just stopping the drugs and alcohol.

Working through the steps gave me a lot of insight of what work I had to do. The resentments I was holding onto, the harm I had done to others, my defects of character etc. The staff were extremely helpful in going through this step by step and making sure I understood it so I could put it to use best I could.

The friendships I made in this community are stronger than any I have had in the past. We understand each other in ways I’ve never connected with anyone. I call some of them my best friends and I’ve truly never felt this close with anyone before.

After 90 days i was able to move to 2nd stage, and start volunteering at primary care. It was so rewarding being able to see the girls come in and grow into themselves and truly become the best version of themselves.

I’m now 14 months sober and never felt better!

Thank you to all the staff and women and everyone involved at Charlford and TWC.

One Woman's Story - Jennifer

Thu, 22 Oct 2026 21:52:54 GMT

When I first arrived at Charlford House last November, I didn't know what to expect. To my surprise, I was greeted by staff who said, "Welcome home."

In that moment, I felt a flood of emotions. Almost instantly, Charlford House felt like exactly that—a home.

I have a unique story. I am a survivor of the Saskatchewan Residential School system, and I came to treatment carrying a lifetime of trauma. On top of that, my husband had passed away just a few months before I arrived. I was overwhelmed with grief and felt completely alone.

From the very beginning, I connected with the Program Director, Stacie. I found that I could really open up to her, and we bonded over the shared experience of losing our husbands. Seeing how she had turned her own grief into a way of helping others inspired me. I wanted to follow in her footsteps and use my experiences to support people facing similar challenges. Before long, I had fallen in love with the entire staff.

Music has always been a special connection between my late husband and me. Music therapy has played a huge role in my healing and continues to be an important part of my recovery journey.

Last month marked one year since my husband of 28 years passed away. During that difficult time, I leaned on my support network and honored his memory by staying sober. I know that I can carry his love and memory with me as I continue this journey.

Charlford House has given me the tools, strength, and confidence to build healthy relationships. One of the greatest gifts of my recovery has been being able to be part of my two grandsons' lives again. I cherish every moment with them.

Today, I continue to work on my recovery every day. I volunteer and work weekend shifts at Charlford House, where I have the privilege of sharing my story and what I've learned with new clients. It means so much to stay connected to the place that saved my life and has changed the lives of so many others.

If I had to describe recovery in one phrase today, it would be:  "Hold On, Pain Ends."  HOPE.

-Jennifer

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One Women's Story - Blythe

One Woman's Story - Jennifer

When I first arrived at Charlford House last November, I didn't know what to expect. To my surprise, I was greeted by staff who said, "Welcome home."