September 2024
My name is Marisa, and I am proud to share that I am now 20 months sober. This achievement is the result of hard work, determination, and the invaluable support I received from Curran’s Calling. Their generosity and belief in me provided the foundation I needed to rebuild my life, and I am excited to share how their continued support has helped me grow personally, professionally, and within my recovery journey.

When I first reached out to Curran’s Calling, I was in a difficult place - between jobs and at risk of losing my housing while striving to maintain my sobriety. Thanks to their Recovery Scholarship, I was able to remain in sober living for an additional eight months, which provided the stability necessary for me to focus on my recovery without the pressure of financial insecurity.

I had already been living in sober housing, Hope Beyond Hope, for about seven months before reaching out to Curran’s Calling. The house is run by two amazing women, Sherri and Diana, whose strength, structure, and unconditional support were instrumental in helping me ground myself and rediscover who I am. Their guidance provided me with the support system and structure essential for my healing and growth. Since then, I’ve transitioned to independent living in my own apartment, which I share with a sober roommate. Although life presents its challenges, I am incredibly happy with where I am today. This step into independent living would not have been possible without the help I received from Curran’s Calling’s Independent Living Scholarship. This foundation has not only helped me afford sober living, but literally helped pay my rent to move into my new apartment. All they required of me was to stay sober, honest, and in communication. I am grateful every day for the opportunity they gave me to rebuild my life.

One of my greatest accomplishments since receiving Curran Calling’s support has been pursuing my passion to become a functional nutrition counselor. This role has allowed me to combine my love for health and wellness with my desire to help others on their healing journeys. As a functional nutrition counselor, I work with individuals to address the root causes of health issues by focusing on the relationship between food, lifestyle, and overall well-being. This holistic approach is particularly meaningful for those in recovery, as it helps restore the body and mind after the effects of addiction.

Functional nutrition involves creating personalized nutrition plans based on an individual’s unique needs, including their genetic makeup, lifestyle habits, and current health status. By emphasizing whole, nutrient-dense foods, functional nutrition helps individuals heal from within, whether they are dealing with chronic illness, mental health struggles, or seeking to optimize their health. For the recovery community, functional nutrition is especially impactful. Addiction often depletes the body of essential nutrients, leading to imbalances that can affect both physical and mental health. By helping individuals restore these deficiencies and adopt healthier habits, functional nutrition supports long-term sobriety and overall well-being.

Additionally, I have found deep fulfillment in sponsoring other women through the 12 Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous. Guiding, supporting, and uplifting women who are navigating the early stages of their sobriety is incredibly rewarding. Having someone believe in you during the hardest moments is crucial and being that person for others has become a central part of my life. Sponsoring these women has not only strengthened my own recovery but has also allowed me to give back to a community that continues to support me.

Curran’s Calling has been the cornerstone of my journey, and I am deeply grateful for the impact they have had on my life. Their support has enabled me to achieve stability, pursue my passion, and give back to others—whether through my work in functional nutrition or by sponsoring women in recovery. I am committed to promoting the foundation in any way I can, sharing my story and encouraging others to take advantage of the incredible opportunities Curran’s Calling provides.

Thank you to Curran’s Calling for believing in me, for helping me build a stable and fulfilling life, and for being a source of light on my road to recovery. I look forward to continuing my journey and supporting the foundation in any way I can.
Sincerely,
Marisa S