FEBRUARY 2021
NEWS AND UPDATES
Hellos & Goodbyes
This past couple of weeks has been a whirlwind! I received a call from Heather, (who had been with us before) (twice) - wanting to come back again. This time was THE time. It had to be, you see, not one, but TWO people were relying on it. She is five months pregnant, with Kyler, and has been sober for most of it, but needs a safe place to stay until she can make it on her own. Would we take her?

One thing you should know about me, is that I. LOVE. BABIES. I love women in recovery too, but I LOOOOVEEE BABIES.
We said "yes" and here we are, one pregnant mom, one unborn baby, with pretty much the clothes on her back. No crib, no clothes or diapers; she herself has a bare minimum of clothes and necessities due to her ever-changing body. But, she called. She is trying. She wants this, and there is not one fiber of my being that could have turned her down. So what will we do now? I am not entirely sure, but I know the One who knows. Heather trusts us. I trust God.

So blessed to be able to say hello again to Heather. So blessed to be a part of her journey.

Last week we said goodbye also. Shaneese had been with us for 18 months, and although I didn't agree, apparently it was time for her to go. She had achieved 18 months of sobriety; struggled through depression and alcoholism that came after the death of her mother, her friend. Her family loved her dearly and helped to support her throughout her time with us.On January 12, Shay was tested for COVID after struggling with symptoms. Early in the morning of January 15th, Shay left this world for another. I received a call from panicked residents of the house, and I was there within minutes. The ambulance and police had already arrived and confirmed that yes, Shay had left us.
An incredible woman, an incredible journey ended too soon. She fought the good fight, she won the battle. She didn't realize it, but she won. She just didn't stay long enough to claim her trophy, to live fully in her victory.

Her sister Shannone and I have talked frequently in the last few weeks. In her time of grief and sorrow SHE comforted ME with these words:

"You don't know how much you helped my sister. She always said that. She cared for each and everyone there. She loved helping. She loved loving. Thank you for helping to create her perfect ending. "

These two stories of women we serve create a perfect example of the tension we live with daily. Fighting on the front lines of an opioid epidemic that is layered with a pandemic is an incredible responsibility and privilege.

Each one on our Recovery Team, Shekana, Chrissy, Amanda, Stephanie, Latisha and Myself - we feel the joy and the weight of this everyday and it is only by God's grace that we can get up and do it again tomorrow.

We appreciate your prayers and support more than you know. It is because of you, that we are able to provide a safe place for Kyler to be born, and a perfect ending for Shaneese.
A New Look! A New Website
We've just launched our updated website! We'd love it if you paid us a visit!
New Online Support Group Starts February 23
Do you need help dealing with a loved one's substance use or abuse? The Family and Friends Support Group is an educational and supportive group for family members and loved ones of individuals using opioids or other substances.
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2020 Tax Receipts have been sent!
If you gave to Coram Deo in 2020, your tax letter should have come by email or has been sent by mail. If you did not receive yours and need one, please reach out to us at [email protected]
Simple Ways You Can Help
People often ask us what they can do to help, and two of the simplest things you can do are share this newsletter with someone new and make sure you are following and sharing on Facebook!
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