A Special Thank You from Richard Strait

I have been involved with Sober Living America since 1999, and have spent the last 16 years of my life trying to help people through recovery and in finding sobriety. It has always been an important part of my life, and my life’s mission to help our residents in Jacksonville. Last week, however, I had a life-changing experience that showed me what an essential part of my life SLA has become.

Last week, I suffered a heart attack. It is still a blur- I didn’t know how I got to the hospital or what was going on. My family took care of me immediately- they took me to get help, contacted my wife and made sure she and my children could get to me. Throughout my time in the hospital, they cared for me, provided for me, and loved me. They looked after me and my wife and made my care their #1 priority. This family was my Sober Living America family– the residents that I know, love and care for at the Jacksonville facility where I am the acting director.

The community showed me so much love and support during this difficult time- not only my Jacksonville family, but all of my extended SLA family as well. The phone calls, messages of support, and kind words from everyone meant so much to me. And it reminded me of what a change it is to be sober and surrounded by people who care for me.

When I was an addict, I did not have people around me who cared. It reminded me, yet again, what a blessing it is to be in recovery today. I am so proud and happy to be a part of Sober Living America. I just hope and pray that the God I understand today will let me see another 16 years in which I can serve my community and help those who need me. Thank you- to my community, friends and family at Sober Living America.

– Richard Strait
Sober Living America
Jacksonville Director