CHILLICOTHE, Ohio — Overcoming addiction is possible, and one local woman says she is making it her mission to inspire others with her story.
Misty Stonerock, 33, Chillicothe, is a proud mother and current peer support specialist with Ross County Community Action.
The Guardian sat down with Misty, who shared her journey on the road to recovery.
“I hope my story will show others that recovery can happen, and you can change your life,” she said.
Stonerock was born and raised in Chillicothe and is one of several siblings.
She explained that she went through some dark times in her early years. Those moments she said, led her into the grips of addiction.
“While growing up, there was a lot of abuse and violence. That kind of stuff affects the person you become. I have been beaten, raped, and mentally abused,” said Stonerock.
“I never felt that my life could get better, and the only way I could deal with it all was by using drugs. I did not want to think about it or feel the pain anymore.”
When asked what finally brought her to the point of seeking help, Stonerock replied, “it was my kids”.
“I knew this was my last chance to be a mother, and I was tired of being sick and tired.”
The Guardian asked Misty if the road to recovery was an easy one.
“During my first year in treatment, I had three months inpatient and six months in transitional. I also spent an additional three months in outpatient therapy. “
“I did all my treatment through the Recovery Council and Family Drug Court,” said Stonerock.
“What the Recovery Council and the Family Drug Court with Judge Benson did for me was a Godsend”.
Since getting clean, Stonerock said, she has been able to accomplish more than she ever imagined.
“I signed back up for high school and was able to complete it online. I then started helping others who struggled the way I did. Not only did I get my diploma, but I was also able to get my Peer Support Certificate.”
When asked about coping with difficult days, she said, “everything I learned to help deal with emotions, pain, and hurt I have to use.”
“Every time you are stressed or overwhelmed”, she said, “you should reach out to someone. We need to remember that as recovering addicts, we are not alone.”
Misty previously worked at The Recovery Council before recently accepting her new position with Ross County Community Action.
“They know about my past, and they still want me to work with them. I am far from the person I used to be. I get to work with people that have the same struggles as I have, said Stonerock. I can help show them that change is possible. Our past does not have to define us.”
Misty was presented with the Community Impact Award by March United Pike County in October of this year.
March United holds an annual community rally.
Organizers say the rally supports “community members in unity against life afflictions such as trauma, abuse, mental health, and substance abuse disorders.”
“Take that first step and reach out”, said Stonerock. “There is a reason why you’re still alive today.”
If you or anyone you know is ready to seek help with addiction, you can reach out to Misty Stonerock at 740-703-1018 or the Ross County Community Action at 740-702-7222.