LaQuanda's second chance

LaQuanda Edgefield, a resident at the Odyssey House Family Re-Entry program, was chosen by OASAS to share her story of recovery as part of the Your Story Matters campaign. Here is an excerpt:

I came walking through the doors of recovery sick, suffering, tired, and pregnant. It was time for me to put down the drugs, settle down and have a healthy baby. I needed long-term treatment with a lot of guidance, patience and understanding. I can definitely say "Thank You" to Odyssey House for giving me exactly that - even when I didn't want it.

Read the rest of her inspiring story here.

Ms. Edgefield is one of the 12 individuals represented in this year’s campaign spotlight stories. As thanks for her participation, OASAS Commissioner Karen Carpenter-Palumbo presented her with a silver recovery “badge of honor” at the Pathways to Recovery Forum last week.

OASAS Commissioner Karen Carpenter-Palumbo and LaQuanda Edgefield.

The Your Story Matters campaign, now in its second year, encourages New Yorkers to share their stories of recovery in an effort to break the cycle of addiction, eliminate stigma and promote lives of sobriety and wellness.