My name is Tia and I am 40 years old. I am honored to share my experience, strength and hope with those considering treatment.
I am the youngest of 15 children. I first went to jail at a young age for selling drugs. It would be the first of many trips. It was in jail that I became seriously addicted to substances. I learned to trade my body for the next high.
When I left jail the third time, I was 92 pounds, homeless, and had no idea where my children were. I moved to Florida to leave behind the people, places and things that made me want to use.
I met Kathy, from The Grove, outside a church. I had come that morning looking for a handout, and had received so much more. She pointed me to a residential facility. After nine months of residential care, I was detoxed and my body felt better, but I still wasn't in the right place mentally and emotionally.
That piece would come from The Grove. I felt like I had a new family. Before, my solution for everything was to get high. I didn't know what to do if I was sad or angry. For every feeling, there was a drug. The Grove had answers. They taught me to deal with my emotions, including suicidal thoughts and low self-esteem. I received treatment at The Grove for over six months.
Now, I have my kids back. My oldest daughter studies Criminal Justice at Florida State University. I am passionate about human trafficking, and I am a volunteer advocate. I share my story with others considering treatment. I want to empower young women so they don't go through the struggles I went through.