Testimonials
What Our Previous Guests Are Saying
- I'm Marie--alumni 1985. My sister and her husband took me, totally against my will (generally I would have put up a fight, or at least run away)--but poor me, I was in a blackout! They had the courage to drive several hours, in the middle of night, with the risk I’d wake up--and then what? Sobriety was too scary--how could I have given up the drugs and alcohol that i basically lived for. I'd already attended over 100 12 step meetings. I could identify plenty. What they didn't know about me was that I was unique! And in maintaining my " independence", my well-kept appearances, I rationalized that I was entitled to some privacy (isolation really). I could quit alcohol anytime i wanted-"-well maybe not today"--or "what difference does it make, one more day drinking/using?" I woke up at Duffy's--mad as all get out! I cried, I swore, I threatened. Certainly they'd bounce me, then I'd be free. And beneath my "better than" facade, I was very, very lonely and knew i was doomed. How could i possible stay quiet? The folks kept vigil, kept me safe--let me rave on, but wouldn't give up on me. They cared about me, until I could care about myself. They accepted me, and I really felt I belonged. I cursed, I laughed, ate the most amazingly delicious food, I swam every day. I was surrounded by recovering folks from all walks of life--rich or penniless, youngsters like me, or old-timers who hit a rough patch. Old Duff was as endearing as he was forceful--he was fiery with no-nonsense approach to sobriety. At the same time, we, all of us, residents and staff alike, were enamored by Duffy. He shared with us lifesaving tools of recovery, quenched our thirst with kindred spirit, with compassion and humor. I had no idea or hope that lasting sobriety was possible, let alone, really wonderful. If you've only one shot left, let it be Duffy's. I have only the highest regard for all the staff, and cannot imagine a better setting than Duffy's of Myrtledale. January 20,2011 Mark Brandonson
