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A Test of Will: James' Story

The struggles of mental health are tough and for some diagnoses, maintaining healthy
habits can be much harder. James came to Easterseals Community Living Services
program in hopes of receiving help managing some of his mental health issues. He
had struggled with a substance use disorder for a large majority of his adult and young
adult life. Well into a year with us, James was still having some trouble but remained
supported and guided by staff who encouraged his entering a 30-day inpatient
substance use treatment at a specialized local facility. He struggled and nearly quit on
more than one occasion, but we are happy to report he finished.

It is hard to describe how happy James looked when he returned home. James
received a certificate of completion that he immediately hung up in his room as soon
as he got back home. His attitude was upbeat and contagious. He had achieved
something he thought was impossible. James told us that the one thing that kept
him strong was the support from all of the Easterseals staff. When James went to
treatment he was ashamed of his behavior and scared of what the future may hold
if he continued to drink, but today James says that he is actually happy and more
hopeful for the future than he’d ever been before. Keep up the great work James - one
day at a time.

- Christopher Buckley, BS, TRC., Site Supervisor | Warren & Somerset Counties

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