Heather’s Story: Safe, Heard, and Empowered
by Heather Gansert
I was a child, just 13, when I was raped. That was the same year I first got drunk and first got high. That year began 34 years of drinking, and a lifestyle that led to more trauma.
I started using cocaine at age 43. Then, a man I thought I loved led me to a life of synthetic marijuana. He began beating me daily. He tried to kill me several times. This left me feeling like I was worthless, nothing. To this day, I often dream that he is killing me.
After 34 years of drinking and trying to quit cold turkey or through rehab and other ways, I was finally able to quit. It took will power and a lot of support from others. This past April 18th, I celebrated seven years of sobriety from alcohol. It’s a date I’m truly proud of, and I’m even prouder to say that I’ve never picked up alcohol again.
My drug use continued, though, until I found St. Joseph’s rehab, a long-term facility. They recommended I come to Unity House’s Grace House program. The community at Grace House made me feel safe, heard and empowered, so I want to give Program Director Dorothy Radcliff a huge shout out. I began to see real progress with her by my side. It felt good.
From there, I discovered Unity House’s PROS program, which has been a tremendous help in managing my mental health. I was hesitant to attend the classes at first, but I quickly realized how valuable and supportive they are. Being part of PROS gave me a sense of belonging and the strength to begin healing. I learned how to begin working through my trauma.
I graduated from Grace House and Unity House’s supportive living program. With the help of Kelly White, a mental health housing specialist at Unity House, I moved into my own apartment in the community. I continue to attend PROS classes almost every day. My peers at PROS recently elected me to their Peer Board, which gives me more of a voice in the program. I want to give back and help others on their journey, just as others have helped me.
Today, I’ve been sober from all drugs for 17 months. Most importantly, I’ve been able to rebuild and strengthen my relationship with my 26-year-old son, Dylan Michael. That connection means everything to me. I am very proud to say that he is getting his master’s degree in psychology.
Today, I’m a proud woman who works hard to overcome her struggles. I am becoming happier with my life, and I’m grateful for the chances I’ve been given. Unity House programs gave me hope when I had none. They work. They change lives.