In the summer of 2017, after more than 20 years of going in and out of jail, I faced my third domestic violence/criminal threatening charge while already on probation for a domestic violence aggravated assault. Due to a previous conviction and my ongoing probation, this charge was elevated to a felony. The victim was my girlfriend of many years. Authorities detained me at Penobscot County Jail for a few weeks on a probation hold without bail. During this time, I consulted with an attorney who discussed my case with the judge. Ultimately, they proposed a five-year prison sentence.
While in jail, I actively participated in the AA program, worked with a sponsor, and made some positive changes. As a result, I received a reduced sentence of 30 months, all suspended except for nine. Later, I was transferred to Two Bridges in Wiscasset to complete my sentence. At the time, I was 37 years old, turning 38 during my incarceration. Despite having four young children at home, I lacked a career, a future, and even a high school diploma. During my jail term, I worked diligently to earn my HiSET and obtain my high school diploma. However, I still had two years of probation ahead, and I knew I needed to make significant changes. Having been in and out of Penobscot County Jail multiple times, I was determined to break the cycle. As my release date approached, I felt a sense of urgency. I reached out to Judy Peavey at Two Bridges, initially hoping to be part of Wellspring as part of my sentence. Although that didn’t work out, I completed the application and screening process with Wellspring and was accepted. However, they informed me that they would only take me after I finished my sentence. I stayed in touch with them, and about two weeks before my release, they notified me of an available bed.
Upon release, I had just four days before I could join Wellspring. Despite the conditions that restricted contact with my kids, I was allowed to communicate with my wife and be on the property. However, due to the kid-related restrictions, I ended up sleeping in my mother-in-law’s car in the garage. Four days later, I arrived at Wellspring, and the experience was both incredible and daunting. My unwavering commitment to sobriety fueled my determination. Having witnessed the effectiveness of AA for others, I harbored a glimmer of hope that I could transform my life.
Beginning the program at Wellspring shortly after the Super Bowl in 2018, I encountered significant challenges. Everything felt alien and uncomfortable. Operating outside my usual addict routines was disorienting. Emotions and stress were uncharted territory—I lacked coping skills beyond drinking and drug use. The staff at Wellspring, mostly in recovery themselves, provided crucial support and knowledge. Their firsthand experience with active addiction made a profound impact on their approach, problem-solving strategies, and communication tactics. My counselor, Jeff, played an instrumental role. Rather than spoon-feeding answers, he encouraged me to think critically and talk through my dilemmas. Slowly, I began to recognize that I possessed the knowledge of what was right; I just needed guidance on how to navigate from my current state. The shortcuts I had relied on—threats, intimidation, manipulation, or quitting—no longer held appeal. Instead, I focused on my journey toward lasting change. During my time at Wellspring, I managed to maintain sobriety without any relapses. Although there were moments during my early stay when I contemplated leaving, living with 15 other men in early recovery posed its challenges. The constant influx of people added to the struggle. However, whenever external difficulties arose, I turned inward and asked myself, “Why is this challenging for me?” I actively absorbed advice from the staff and my counselor.
In July of 2018, I achieved something truly significant: I graduated from Wellspring. It marked the first time I had consistently worked on a goal for six months. The sense of accomplishment was immense. Previously, my mental list of accomplishments lacked meaning or long-term impact. At 38 years old, I found myself without a driver’s license—a void I aimed to fill. Graduating from Wellspring held immense significance for me. I forged valuable connections within the recovery community and the fellowship of Alcoholics Anonymous. Initially, I resisted the frequent meetings advocated at Wellspring, but eventually, I recognized their importance in my journey toward lasting change.
Meetings played a pivotal role in building the foundation of my recovery and establishing a robust support network. While no single individual could fully guide me through the challenges of early recovery, the collective wisdom of the fellowship and the recovery community proved invaluable. These were people who had walked a similar path, faced comparable struggles, and emerged stronger.
One of my most transformative experiences occurred when Wellspring encouraged me to volunteer at the Salvation Army. Initially, I approached it as a mere assignment, intending to complete it and move on. However, the reality was profound. That day, we served 75 people, providing them with a meal they might not have otherwise had. Their gratitude and the compassion we extended left an indelible mark. These individuals, once my peers in addiction, now shared a moment of connection and sustenance. Even those I used to use with came in, surprised to find me there. I proudly told them about my journey with Wellspring.
After leaving Wellspring, I spent five months at the Oxford House, where I assisted fellow men in their recovery. On November 1, 2018, I moved into the 87 Ohio Street residence and became the manager of the first Fresh Start house. My personal motivation was to ensure that individuals leaving Wellspring wouldn’t face the same fear I did—finding no safe, supportive, and affordable place to go. To this day, I fiercely protect Fresh Start’s reputation. If any issues arise, I address them promptly. My time at Wellspring taught me the value of accountability. Even when it’s challenging, addressing issues early prevents them from festering. I also learned the importance of holding others accountable and allowing them to do the same for me. This shift was significant because it contradicted my previous values and principles—shaped by a criminal and jailhouse mentality. Back then, I believed in not telling on anyone, ignoring problems, and avoiding involvement. But in recovery, I needed a different approach. As a recovering drug addict and alcoholic, I remain vigilant. Having someone to bounce thoughts off or regular communication helps keep me grounded.
I am getting ready to celebrate seven years abstinent, no drugs and no alcohol and my life is changed. I just got my permit to drive at 45 years old. Since I left Wellspring, I have been working on resolving a DUI I had in Florida nine years ago. I bought a home. I have helped Fresh Start grow into a company that has purchased 15 buildings with 120 beds for people in recovery. The first two years after I left Wellspring, I went to Wellspring’s detox twice a week and facilitated AA meetings. It was important for my recovery to be of service and to give back. I am proud of my recovery. I have a special place in my heart for Wellspring. I love to take people into Fresh Start from Wellspring because I know what it takes to make it through that program and understand that they have made a commitment to their recovery, and they have gained some tools and skills. The people we bring here from Wellspring are great assets to our organization.