I found the River Source on a Google search. After several conversations with staff members, I decided they had what I was looking for. The very first day at the Source, I was welcomed and taken in by the clients. Why were these people so happy? Within a week I too found myself laughing and smiling. Quite a change from my daily life.
My life has turned around 180⁰ today. I look forward to each day and enjoy a growing and glowing relationship with my Higher Power. The staff was amazing, patient and kind. I never knew or imagined that I would have so many junkies and drunks that I am proud to call my brothers and sisters.
If you are totally serious about changing your life, you owe it to yourself to grow at the River Source.
Thank you Rusty, Sharmyn, Geffen, John and all,
Merv V.
Fransico - March, 2010
I came to the River Source after a chain of events that led me to believe that my life was unmanageable. For the past 9 years I have been abusing drugs and alcohol that would have ended me up dead or in prison. I feel that God led me to this place. Also, after looking at the webpage and seeing that it was a 12-step based Holistic, a spiritual approach and that I could do Brainwave therapy here were the main reasons I chose River Source. River Source has changed my life, it showed me the tools that I need to live a healthy life. I now have a better understanding of myself, my feelings and my disease. Today I am happy to wake up in the mornings and look forward to what life has to offer me. River Source has helped me connect to my Higher Power which has been life changing. I would definitely recommend the River Source to anyone that is seeking help or an inpatient treatment center. I would just like to say that this place is Heaven sent, God is definitely working through River Source and Sharmyn and Rusty. Miracles do happen every day and now I can see that. Thank God
Fransico
Luke - Jan, 2010
I came to The River Source a very broken man. My life was out of control, absolutely unmanageable and I was emotionally and spiritually bankrupt due to my drug and alcohol addiction. On top of that I had, just three weeks prior, broken my hip and femur because of an alcohol related incident. I needed help! I had tried to quit by myself, tried to control things on my own but to no avail. I had even been to other treatment centers in years past but could not stay sober. I didn’t know where to turn and things were looking very bleak. Thanks to some research by my family, while I was in the hospital, we found out about The River Source Treatment Center. In that research process my Mom, Dad and siblings carefully weighed the options. They were totally distraught with my situation and knew I needed serious help, right away from just the right facility. The holistic approach was a bright beacon. Mom and Dad being years in recovery and still sober knew well that true healing is truly about the mind, body and spirit working together in harmony. Also, with me being newly post-op and still recovering from serious injuries it was crucial that I be in an environment well suited to handle the entire scope of my impairments. River Source is that place. The naturopathic clinic is a space of wonderful healing and nurturing stabilization. We as addicts and alcoholics are devoid of proper nutrition and health and our bodies need to be brought back to strength and vitality. That happens here in this clinic. I can’t say enough about how important this has been. The full body massages, yoga and sauna treatment have also played an integral role in my improvements physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually. Also, of the upmost importance, are the things we learn here. The Program Managers, Life Coaches, Counselors, Peer Support and all of the staff have been very special and so beneficial. They genuinely care and take their roles here with a fine tuned sense of purpose as a real mission to help others in need. Being recovered alcoholics and addicts themselves they have the perspective to understand in the truest sense. Sharing their experience, strength and hope with courage and honesty while at the same time having the insight to be sensitive to the specialized needs that some of us require. My experience here has been nothing short of an absolute miracle. So many incredible things took place for me here. Things that not long ago seemed totally impossible. I have a strong spiritual connection that allows me peace and serenity in my day to day life. I am no longer restless, irritable and discontent. I have hope, faith and a sense of meaning and belonging that I was lacking. And, I am no longer trying to be something that I am not. Today I can just be me! I now leave The River Source Treatment Center and walk back into society on my own two legs with knowledge of self-worth and a tool box filled with the things I need to help keep me sober, as well as happy, joyous and free!
Ryan - Jan 2010
I came to The River Source a scared, miserable, and hopeless person. Nearly one hundred days later, I feel happy, joyous, and free.
My recovery has not been an overnight process, but it is nothing compared to the years I wasted in my active addiction.
While in treatment I was shown a better way to do life and was given the tools to put that plan into action. Through working the Twelve Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous, I have been given a life that is everything I never knew I always wanted.
Words seem inadequate to express how thankful I am for the gifts I have been given over the last three months, for they will last a lifetime.
Trust God… Clean House… Help Others
Ryan – Chandler, AZ
Scott - Jan 2010
I understand nothing is perfect when running a center such as River Source, one can find anything to knit-pick. Overall the River Source is great. Amazing counselors(Rusty, Sharmyn, John and Geffen) and great staff(Olivia, Casey, Brian) that have the best intentions and only want the best for the client base.
Keep on keepin on!
A letter from a family to Counselor at the River Source Dec. - 09
"Alex and I were just having a conversation about Riann when you sent your email. We were talking about the amazing change in her and are blown away by her mental clarity and an inward beauty that has been clouded for quite sometime. She has been an absolute delight to be around. She is doing really, really well and seems to really like her environment at the ...(transitional home). We are all so happy and thankful for all that we have gone through over the last months. The results could not have happened had Riann not gone for treatment and been lovingly guided by the River Source staff during her darkest times. I could go on and on but... I know she really misses everyone at River Source too. She has spoken very highly about everyone there and realizes how important the 90 days were. She is looking forward to helping others but in the process, realizes her need to share her feelings with others as well. She goes to a lot of meetings and has a sponsor locally. Unfortunately, Adena was so completely above and beyond in all aspects that I'm not sure anyone else can live up to how she feels about the quality of Adena's sponsorship. Adena has been an amazing role model for Riann. Riann is very close to her. We are thankful for God's hand in guiding you to have Adena sponsor her. Thank you.
We can't thank all of you enough. We look forward to 2010 and all its blessings. Happy New Year to you and our River Source family.
Love,"
Susan and Alex
Jeff - Nov, 09
Before coming to the River Source I was a total wreck. I was in denial about being an addict and uneducated about addiction. I was brought “here” by God, and at first I did not realize that. During my first few days (weeks) I was not wanting to stay sober and could not wrap my head around the program. Gradually through experience and suggestion the fog and delusion within myself was lifted. I began to come into definite contact with God. Working the 12 steps free’d me as a person so that I could better carry out God’s will for me. Having to always keep in mind it is spiritual progress not perfection. By starting to be at peace and in contact with God, any type of problem that I encountered here during my stay was easy to deal with. I am truly grateful for coming here. My life today is totally enlightening. I can’t really explain, AMAZING! I know now that the worst part of my life is over (if I continue to work the steps) but that the hardest part of recovery is just now starting as I graduate. If anyone is thinking about coming here I would totally say it’s a great idea. Take it serious, be open minded and open to suggestion. It’s a good place!
Jeff
Ralph - Nov, 09
I came to the River Source because I am an alcoholic and could not stop drinking. My experience at the River Source was good, the staff was very supportive and knowledgeable about the 12 steps and spirituality of the program. Life is a lot better now that I completed the 30 days.
Ralph A.
Converse R. - Nov. 09
I came to the Riversource looking for a new solution to my heroin addiction,and was given so much more. My family chose it for me because of their experience with opiate addiction. My experience was spiritual, and i was given the tools to live life on life's terms. The Riversource showed me a conception of powerlessness and what I needed to do to relieve me of my addiction. Today my life is better than I ever thought it could be, I have financial stability. the respect of my family, and a happiness that no chemical ever brought me. I highly recommend the Riversource, and would recommend to take any suggestion that Rusty and Sharmyn have to offer.
Sincerely
Converse
Tonya B - Oct, 09
I was brought to The River Source from the hospital because I needed help with my alcohol and drug addiction.
I was very suicidal when I got here and didn’t know if I could do this again, or if I even wanted to. I was depressed and just wanted life to end.
What I came to realize was that God never stopped believing in me and was still there to help me if I was willing to ask and let go of my old ways of living and thinking. I have never worked all 12 steps and surely never was honest with the first 3 steps. Here I have worked all 12 steps as honestly as I can and will continue to work them again.
I want to live now and I have faith and hope in God, that I have never felt before. I have felt, seen and heard God since I have been here and will continue to keep this new found faith through prayer and meditation, along with helping others to see what God and the steps can do for them.
Tonya B
Alex B - Oct, 09
I came to The River Source with every aspect of my life falling apart and a terrible drug addiction.
My experience at The River Source was life changing. I have been given a chance to look deep inside myself, my past and my problems. I feel like I’ve grown in all aspects of my life and begun to make the right decisions and changes. The steps have brought me a peace I have never felt before.
Thank you all for this gift and opportunity, thank you for the tools and knowledge I need to apply this to my life outside these walls.
Thank you, thank you, thank you
Alex B
Rich - Oct, 09
I came to the River Source to detox and relax… Somehow I was tricked into changing the way I live my life and for that I am truly grateful!
Thank you,
Rich
Beth - Aug, 09No rehab is perfect, no rehab is fun! But I have found that The River Source is close to both.
After being at several other rehabs in my past, The River Source was the one for me. They helped me to find and work the 12 Step program like no one else has before. I am very grateful for The River Source. They made my time here a wonderful experience. From all of my house mates all the way up to the staff. The extras are just a perk.
The Source is a force with a purpose
Thank you for saving my life!
Beth D.
Jordan - Oct, 09
After years of drug and alcohol abuse, I found myself asking for help. After some research, my parent’s found The River Source. Being 18 and from North Carolina, I was nervous and uncertain.
As soon as I arrived, I knew I was in the right place. The facility is beautiful and continues to improve. The staff are in recovery and an invaluable component to the wonderful program offered. The meetings both at the facility and off site offer a great opportunity to plug into a solid support group. I was even assisted in earning my GED, showing The River Source will go above and beyond to help me and others in life. As an added bonus, after a brief period of restriction you can have your cell phone, computer, etc… for a period of time each day.
As I prepare to graduate, I have found a new happiness. I now have real friends, my family, life is better, and I am full of passion and excitement for my new sober life.
I would just like to personally recommend The River Source to anyone seeking treatment. I can honestly say it has been one of the best experiences of my life. Jordan
Terry, Aug. 09
As I am writing this I know that I have not had a drink or drop of alcohol in sixty-two days. I know that, after many years of false starts, recoiling and half-hearted attempts, I have honestly and sincerely completed the twelve steps of Alcoholics Anonymous - an accomplishment I once thought of as nearly impossible - as superhuman. I know that in two life-altering, crowded months, I have gained friendships and experiences that I will treasure for the rest of my life. I know that I now have a profound, personal, reciprocal relationship with a power greater than myself - with God. I know that I may and probably will want to drink again, but I also know I will never NEED to drink again. There are so many other things that I know now that I didn't know before I came to The River Source, but the most important - the most absolute thing I've learned is this: All of this knowledge is useless without taking action. My time here has been inundated with the message "Take action!" I have gotten so much guidance, information, encouragement, inspiration and insight all to prepare me for a sober and happy life helping others to have a sober and happy life. To spend so much time and effort teaching me how I can stay sober for the rest of my life by helping others stay sober is probably not the best business plan for a treatment center. Nevertheless, the time WAS spent, the effort IS made, the love IS shared. The dedication and honesty of the staff is inspiring and I know that when I had no hope or faith of courage, they were willing and eager to share theirs until I had my own. L'Chiam Terry C.
David, Aug. 09
I can't thank the River Source enough for the opportunity's I have today. I entered the River Source a distraught, sad and miserable person. I was at a point in my life where I was either going to get help or die from my disease. The River Source staff was a God send in my life, the counselors were beyond helpful and the other clients there became my friends. I enjoyed the time I spent their learning about my disease and the actions I needed to take to get where I am today. I still talk too many of the River Source staff and clients today and find that they play a giant part in my recovery and are there when I need to talk. I am now happily moving on with my life I am enrolled in school and have a great relationship with my family. I have nothing but gratitude for the River Source, the place that helped me see the path I needed to take to live a life where I am happy, joyous and free. -David, Aug. 09
Heather G - Aug.09
Ease, grace and joy are not ordinarily associated with the drug detox and treatment process, but The River Source is no ordinary treatment center. As the centers in-house naturopathic doctor, Dr. Liz Kim, says "mountains move here everyday."
At The River Source, "holistic" is more than just a buzz word, the staff treat every client as a whole human being with body, mind, heart, and spirit given equal attention. My journey to recovery and sobriety was greatly facilitated and enhanced by the staff's respect for my individual needs and desire for personal integrity even when I had some difficulty or resistance to the tremendous changes my body, my emotions, my overactive often (stubborn mind) were going through.
Heartfelt thanks to each and every one of The River Source team members who made my recovery and sobriety possible in an all too short 30 days.
Namaste,
Heather G.
Laura, July 2009
My name is Laura; I'm 19 years old from a small town in Maryland . Three months ago I had made the best decision of my life to go to the River Source for treatment. Before going away my life was being taken over by drugs and alcohol. I had a dependency on Oxy Cotton, Cocaine, and Alcohol. In February I had gone away to a detox center for three days and the day I got out I was back to using. My life was spinning out of control and I was tired of the way I was living, something had to be done. I agreed to go away to treatment for thirty days. When I arrived at the River Source I was comforted with hope, love, and the correct help I would need to save my life. I was also introduced to the 12 Steps, where I soon learned that these steps would change my life. When my thirty days was coming up I decided this was not enough time, so I continued my stay with another thirty days. During my stay I took full advantage of the yoga, meditation, the Naturopathic Clinic, and the daily meetings that took place at the River Source. Today I am now spiritually, mentally, and physically healthy all thanks to the River Source for helping me change my way of living. After leaving the River Source I decided to stay in Arizona because of the fellowship I had discovered. I am also living in a sober house with three other recovering addicts. Today, I attend 2-3 daily 12-Step meetings; work with my sponsor, as well as other recovering addicts and alcoholics. I could not thank the staff at the River Source enough for helping me change my life!
Amanda J., May 09
I came to The River Source scared. I had recently been sexually assaulted and trusted no one or no thing. I drank to keep the memories away. I took my klonopin (bensodiazepam) to keep the flashbacks away. I ended up with 2 DUI's in 3 months. I trashed my life in weeks. And I ended up at the River Source. Holistic Medicine. Therapy. The Wellness Plan. At the River Source I was petrified upon arrival. Who are these people? Within 24 hours I was in meditation - which helped me begin to focus my Type A Personality and made me dilligent. Then I went to group. And my co-patients and Rusty Ackerman made it clear to me how delusional and untruthful to myself I was. Best thing that ever happened to me. Within 24 hours I had competed Step 1 and was told by my peers (accurately) that I was delusional and in complete denial about my problems I am an alcoholic and an addict. I know this from The River Source; And it is true. I am the child of an alcoholic. I am an alcoholic. Never would I have admitted that fact if I had never attended The River Source A Holistic Healing Plan. No Drugs. Health first. No crutches provided. If you BS your Step 1 Rusty WILL call you out on it. And anyone like me that cares about you will, too. At The River Source I received education in prayer, meditation, holistic healing, group therapy, single therapy, and general healing. The River Source SAVED MY LIFE. I would be dead without it. You can be well. Spend 30 or 60 or 90 days at the River Source. Follow your After Care Plan - you will be okay. You will. I am. I am the happiest of my life. Be happy. Be good. Be sober. Life will be great. I swear it to you. Go to The River Source with ther Wellness Plan and you will be okayl Trust me. If you want to live - I recommend The River Source. They will save you, if you and your HP want to save you.
Love with all my heart,
Amanda J 5.28.09
Marcus H., July 09
What brought me to The River Source?
I was using an ungodly amount of pills and I had been trying to stop for 10 years. I couldn't stop and I was going to die!
My experience at The River Source was beyond words, I was taught that by seeking a spiritual solution I didn't have to live that way anymore. The River Source gave me the tools necessary to live a happy and sober life.
My life now is better than ever. I have a relationship with God now that I have never had before, and I am happy, joyous, free, and SOBER. I never imagined that life could be this good!
To all of the staff I would just like to say that you are all incredible. Thank you all, if there is anything I can do to help or be of service let me know!
Marcus H. 7/13/09
Our mission is to transform lives when it seems like all hope is lost.
"I desperately needed and wanted help"
"I can never repay the hard work and dedication"
"I have peace and hope for a better life"
Read more detailed life stories from people all over the USA in their own words below:
Upon entering treatment, I had managed to climb into a deadly vehicle made of oxycontin, heroin, pot, and crack. Fueled by lifelong feelings of fear, rage, resentment, and crippling depression, suicide seemed my final destination. Instead, I found myself on the steps of the River Source: broken, empty, a shell of a person.
Recovered addicts themselves, the amazing staff loved and accepted all of me. Once my drug cloud had lifted, they taught me how to feel again and how to accept all of my humanness-good and bad. They showed me the lies I’d told myself and taught me how to walk through my fears instead of needing drugs to hide from them.
River source was instrumental in saving my life. I went in a hopeless 35 year old drug addict, destined to die in my addiction. In 60 days, I came out reborn, with a gratitude and new love for life-my life- that I never dreamed possible.
Forever in your debt
Jen J. - Arizona
I am taking time to write to tell you of the progress that my mother has had after attending a month long re-hab session there. She now attends AA regularly, and has become overall a much more positive person. She is sober and able to go on trips to visit me without a whole mess of excuses and negativity. I think of you all often and want you all to keep doing what you are doing, and keep doing it the way you are doing it.
I have attended AA with her on several occasions, and have really come to realize how unique of a place River Source is. I had no idea what a wonderful program you had going until I heard the stories of other people's rehabilitation. Your introduction to yoga, holistic medicine, and group discussions with Deepak Chopra cards sets you worlds apart. I think my mom said she also saw the "Secret" there, and I was so amazed to hear you introducing this to your guests. That is a great film for an alcoholic or addict.
There are so many things to thank you all for, but I know that when you get lost in the shuffle and business of running day to day operations, and surrounding yourself with people who have put themselves in negative states of mind, that you can forget how fresh life is and how wonderful you really are. So, please take a moment, silent yourself, and recognize, "I am healing people who need it. I am healing myself as I do this. I am the better world I want to see. I might not be perfect, but I am whole."
Thank you ALL so much and I know I'll never meet you all, but I will keep your organization fresh in my mind and know that change is possible.
Sincerely,
Nicholas S. - Massachusetts
Before going to The River Source, I hated myself. My addiction to Oxycontin destroyed my life. I didn’t know what to do, so I agreed to go to The River Source. I later realized that was one of the smartest things I’ve done in a long time. The River Source provided a safe, structured environment where I could get healthy, mentally, physically and spiritually. The counselors and doctors were a huge part of my recovery. They understood me. They were there to provide solutions to the problems I was having.
Today, I have the tools to keep me sober and happy in recovery. I was able to get my self-confidence and the trust and respect from my family back. One thing I do know is that I never have to live in the pain and misery I was in thanks to The River Source.
Eric - Arizona
My name is Brad and I am 27 years old. Since I was 16 I have struggled with alcohol and for the last 6 years I have been dependent on opiates including heroin. Nothing that happened as a result of my addiction was able to stop my drug use. Medications, outpatient treatment and a very near death overdose did nothing to help me see that I suffered from a totally hopeless state of mind that truly was an illness. The River Source doctor and staff were able to help me medically and guide me through early recovery. Using the methods suggested within the 12 step program I have learned to fill the spiritual void that has been the root of my addictions for all of these years. I attribute my recovery to the River Source and the staff there. I will never be able to thank them enough.
Brad - Arizona
I arrived at River Source in May of 2004. I desperately needed and wanted help. I had spent the previous month calling every treatment center in the Phoenix area. No one would accept me because of the high dose of Methadone that I was on. After talking to Jeff about treatment and being assured that he would try, with the help of Dr. Arneson, I came to stay at River Source when no one else would have me. Through Jeff and with the help of Dr. Arneson, Lou Dale and John Carter, professional counselors, I found a new way of life through 12 Steps, meetings, prayer, meditation, yoga, exercise and vitamin therapy.
I will always be grateful for my experience at River Source, as will my wife, son and all of those who loved and supported me. It is hard to express my gratitude, I can only say thank you from the bottom of my heart.
Sincerely. Jim A
When I came to River Source I was only allowed supervised visits with my son. The years of addiction had cost me my family, my professional life and very nearly my own life. After spending time working with Jeff and Dr. Arneson I came to what was to be one of the happiest days of my life, when on Fathers Day of 2005 I was allowed a whole day of an unsupervised visit with my 9 year old son. What most people take for granted, was for me a miracle. I can never repay the hard work and dedication to my recovery that the staff at River Source gave to me.
Sincerely, Ed
For those of you who have an addicted loved one and are frustrated searching for an affordable and quality treatment center, I highly recommend The River Source in Mesa Arizona, it is truly a "home" for recovery. I checked my 24 year old son into the facility at 11:30 PM. By 7:30 AM he had already received vitamin I.V. therapy and throughout the rest of his first day he was monitored by a qualified, professional and genuinely caring staff. My heart felt thanks to all of them. I now have my son back.
The Rudge Family - Arizona
My name is Seth. I'm 27 years old I started using crystal meth when I was 14 years old on a every day basis. I was involved in a lot of bad things, my life sucked. I was totally ok with the fact I was going to die a drug addict. My family didnąt really want nothing to do with me, and the only friends (so I thought) had were up to the same stuff I was up to. Then one day I was facing 5 years in prison so I decided that I needed help, so I checked myself into the River Source. It was the best thing that ever happened to me, today I have 10 months clean and my life is awesome. Most importantly I have my self back today, my family, a job, I actually have life today, that doesnąt revolve around drugs. The River Source has done so much for me I wouldnąt even know where to begin. I am so grateful today that God put the River Source in my life. The River Source is were my life began again.
Seth - Arizona
When I made the decision to go to River Source, all i could think about was, "How bad is this detox going to be?" I had spent the last 3 years on opiates of some sort, i did heroin, then switched to going to the methadone clinic because i HAD to get away from the dope environment. At first it was ok, it kept me away from the dope, but then it started to take an extreme toll on my body and it got to the point where i could barely function. Then, I discovered River Source.
I walked in the doors full of fear, expecting nothing but a miserable detox. I was shocked when i realized that the physical pain I had expected was nowhere near what i had thought it was going to be. When the clouds lifted from my mind and body, something happened to me that I still can't quite explain. I felt as if i had been smacked upside the head and all the sudden one day I was AWAKE! Truly awake and i started absorbing everything around me like a sponge. The staff at River Source made an enormous impact on me, to see the recovery program and the steps really working for real addicts and alcoholics made all the difference in the world. See, I tried other rehab programs before and although i tried to work thru them, its just so much harder when you are hearing things from people who have NOT lived it. They know what they know from a book and they have no life experience for you to draw from. River Source is completely different from any other rehab experience i had. The relationships I made with the people there, staff and patients alike, will last a lifetime. I felt loved by these people from the moment I walked thru the doors and I continue to feel it to this day.
Going to River Source was the BEST decision I have ever made in my life, it has given me a great start on my recovery. Life gets better and better every day and I am no longer living in fear and chemical dependence. Thanks to River Source, I am finally free!!!
Kristin e. - Illinois
Upon my arrival a the River Source I was living in misery. I was unable to stop using heroin on own power. I have come so far on my recovery, for the staff has taught me many life lessons which I will be forever grateful. I found myself relating with all the staff members and what the have gone through. I feel like I have a second family, for everyone truly cares about your well being and are willing to help in any way. I was in such a bad place in my life, but thanks to the help and guidance from this wonderful fellowship I am leaving a new man. I am happier than I have ever been and can not wait to share my experience with others. Thanks to my sobriety I will be a better father, son and brother. Not only am I grateful, but my family as well who now have their new and improved son. I will never forget the River Source and the wonderful people who helped me get my life back from the hell I was once in. For this place saved my life.
Love, Tim - Georgia
When I first entered River Source, I was so dependent on alcohol I could not stop drinking day in and day out. Upon entering River Source, I felt it was the best 30 days of my life. They started me on the road to recovery thru the 12 steps of A.A. It is a miracle how the craving of alcohol has been lifted from my shoulders. I still am very active in the A.A. Program making 2-3 meetings a day and making a host of new friends. I can honestly say they helped me to become the person I am today, happy, confident and free of alcohol.
Jim - 53 years old
Glendale, AZ
13 ½ months clean
Dear River Source staff, this email to you is quite tardy. We certainly meant to write it more promptly, but hopefully you'll agree with our better-late-than-never philosophy. We can never repay you all for what you have done for our daughter. We know you all did everything humanly possible for her plus 120% more! You somehow found a way to make her see the truth of her life and her addiction. You gave her the tools to find a way to recovery and to rebuild her dignity, self-respect, her life! We cant begin to imagine the talent, dedication and plain hard work it takes to do what you all have done. And not just for Kristin, we know you do the same every day for each and every client who is willing to give it a try. Its beyond our ability to comprehend just how difficult your jobs are, but never doubt that you are wonderfully effective and that you have made a tremendous difference in Kristins life as well as our own. We were close to believing that recovery wasnt in the cards for her. We thought the hell we had all lived in these past 5 years was here to stay. You facilitated her tentative desire to lead a drug free life and somehow sparked it into a warm, glowing BURNING need to get sober and stay there! As teachers we know that its rare to have a student come back and say, Thanks. Its even more rare for a parent to do so. We know that what you all do on a daily basis is much more difficult than teaching and you deserve to know that what you do matters, its important and you do it so well! Thank you is so inadequate, but its all we can offer. We know that her future is in her hands. She must make the choices each and every day to stay on the right course. You all gave her that chance, however, and we just cant think of enough words of praise for what we see as a miracle! Please pass on this message to all on staff at River Source. Let Sharmyn, Rusty, Dr. Chad, Jeff, Paul and others (whose names we might have missed) know our heartfelt thanks. Thanks Phil to you especially for your patient phone calls when things got dicey. You kept us so well informed and did so often on your own time-on weekends and evenings, etc. Thanks so much, we will never forget what you all have done for our daughter and our family. Our best wishes, Shelley and Tom parents of Kristen E. Illionis
Prior to my arrival at the River Source I was a broken individual. I did not know how to be comfortable in my own skin and could not live on life's terms. I was a full blown Heroin addict with nothing good going for me. I had truly become a hopeless dope fen. By the age of 23 I had been in trouble with the law, shot at, overdosed, and been in more car accidents due to my falling asleep at the wheel than most people would experience in a life time. The sad thing about the fact that I was so delusional that I thought this was something that happened to everyone when in fact these were all forms of an abnormal reaction to drugs and alcohol. When I finally made it to the River Source the staff found out that I was not going to be an easy client. But they stuck with me and focused on me that much more. I have learned through the 12 steps that I am truly powerless over my addiction and that the only way for me to get this is by working the steps thoroughly, attending daily meetings, keeping in touch with my sponsor, being of service to others and keeping in constant contact with my higher power. When at the River Source I experienced something I was not sue to, people seemed to actually care about me and appreciated me for me. I truly can't thank the staff enough for not giving up on me and for guiding me through my recovery at my own pace. Sharmyn, Rusty and Colleen seemed to be willing to do whatever it took to get me where I am today and taught me that the only way I can keep what was so freely given to me is by giving it away. 2.8 09 Jon L.
AndrewTo whom it may concern: My son Andrew went to The River Source for the 30-treatment program. At first he wasn\'t happy. But after about the first 5 days he informed us of how happy he was there and that everyone was so nice and helpful. He was so thankful to be there. Andrew is 20 years old and still young enough to get back on track with his life now, thanks to The River Source and all of their staff. They impressed our family and I told them I would recommend this center to anyone who needs help. Sincerely, Debbie (mom)
SeanI found The River Source on the internet. As far as myself I have invested 20 years of addiction to all types of drugs from pot to meth and everything in between including alcohol. While here I learned through the 12 steps that I can live happy joyous and free. The staff is incredible and counseling is a great link between step groups and dealing with ourselves. You are given privileges like a phone for 1 hour a day so you don't lose touch with the outside world which also gives you the opportunity to deal with things that arise while in a protected space, so you don't get a complete shock when you leave. As far as life now I carry God in my heart and I know the tools that are necessary for staying sober. It is the best feeling I have ever had in my life.
Thank you for everything
Sean C.
If you or a loved one is looking for treatment for any type of substance abuse, please call NOW:
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