Connect What is the most rewarding part of being a mom?

Being able to teach her life lessons in the moment. Showing her that even when you fail, you can get back up and try again. Teaching her compassion and empathy and how to be a kind person. There is so much hate in the world, and I want to prove to her that we can break the cycle. We can love with all our hearts and be a safe person for others.

What is one memory of your kids that you will never forget?

When she secretly made a video on my 5 year sober anniversary telling me how proud she was of me. She said she was grateful for a sober mom and it reminded me that all the hard work is worth it. She is very aware of my struggles, and it’s important to me to have open communication with her about my disease. If I can save her from going down this road of addiction I would in a heartbeat. I know I do not have that power, but at least I can share my experience, strength, and hope with her and pray.

What would you do with $20,000?

I work as a middle school counselor and I would continue to raise money to bring substance abuse speakers into our school. Every year I hold a spin ride to recovery and use the donations to educate the youth. I want kids like my daughter to learn early about the disease of addiction and hopefully stop the process before it begins. I would also like to take my daughter on a small trip- she loves hotel rooms!