Hi, I’m Carrie!
When I was younger, I was driving home from College and was rear-ended by a drunk driver, forcing my car off the road. After waking up in the hospital, I was angry that someone could be so irresponsible and cause me so much pain.
After the accident, I saw countless doctors, was poked and prodded, had numerous scans and had a horrible leg break. One doctor prescribed opioid pain medication to help me manage my leg pain. I had to take a
semester away from College, and I don’t recall the warnings about addiction and misuse. I was frustrated and in so much pain that I ignored the dose and took them as often as I needed them. I was fooling everyone but myself, managing my pain. I remember feeling lonely and isolated. I ignored friends and family reaching out until they stopped reaching out. I was so angry at the drunk driver that I didn’t realize I had become dependent on opioids to manage my day-to-day life.
When my mother was diagnosed with severe health issues, I knew I had to step up and support her and be there for my Dad and family. I moved home to Welland, and thanks to my family, they took me to Segue Clinic the day I arrived home. I was ready to face reality and start a treatment program for opioid and fentanyl addiction.
Today, I am enrolled at Niagara College as a mature student so I can live at home and receive the support I need to maintain my health focus, work on my future, and help my mom, too!
I have been successful with the personal recovery program Segue has run for 2.5 years. I cannot thank my family and Segue Clinic enough. I know my future is bright, and I have the support I need when I need it.