Runner’s High in Recovery: A Natural High That Heals

For those in recovery, the word high can carry heavy weight. But there’s a different kind of high called runner’s high, and for some people in recovery, it can be a source of peace and clarity. What is a High? A "high" is a brain event that happens when the "reward circuit" overacts. This overaction is experienced as relaxation, or heightened sensory perception, or euphoria. A high is a normal brain response to life experiences, such as seeing a loved-one, having fun with friends, or enjoying physical activity. Highs can [...]

2025-04-08T11:16:52-04:00April 14th, 2025|Addiction & Recovery|

From Crack & Alcohol to a Life of Health & Service

“She had the life that I wanted,” said Starlene, a Germantown resident who calls her sister her “hero.” "She showed me what recovery was all about." Initially, Starlene resisted seeking recovery help, but despite her reluctance, her sister never gave up on her. “She would leave information about recovery everywhere, in my pockets, on the table, on my wallet. When I was ready and needed it, it was there for me to find.” After a harrowing experience involving crack, alcohol, and weed, Starlene suffered a stroke that left her unable [...]

2025-03-08T13:12:04-05:00March 10th, 2025|Addiction & Recovery, Lived Experience|

From Rock Bottom to Redemption: Jodi and Derrick’s Journey of Recovery, Love, and Service

In the world of addiction recovery, stories of hope and transformation are precious. The story of Jodi, 59, and Derrick, 60, who found love and a new purpose in rehab, is one of those stories. They shared their experience to let Philadelphians that there is hope in recovery. "We met in rehab," Jodi recalls, a smile in her voice. For her, it was her final rehab stay: “I had been in every rehab and detox in Philadelphia and the surrounding areas maybe five times, starting at age 18." Her last [...]

2025-02-04T18:40:29-05:00February 4th, 2025|Addiction & Recovery, Lived Experience|

From Heroin to Hope: Steward’s Recovery Journey

Steward, a 77-year-old Philadelphian, is a fixture in Rittenhouse Park. A stroll with him is never just a walk; it's a social event. At every turn, he chats with neighbors and friends. His jokes have perfect Philadelphian timing, and he laughs with ease. Steward’s compassionate nature stems from decades of personal recovery and from helping others overcome substance abuse. His journey offers insights for people struggling with substance abuse or concerned about a loved one using opioids. At 17, Steward began injecting heroin. His first overdose took place in his [...]

2025-02-03T16:20:09-05:00February 3rd, 2025|Addiction & Recovery, Lived Experience|
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