For Marcus, joining a support group wasn’t a bold step forward—it was a last resort. After years of drinking and drug use, after multiple arrests and the unraveling of life as he knew it, he reached a point of desperation.
“It wasn’t really a decision. I just didn’t have any other option. I couldn’t imagine how I’d live without substances. I couldn’t imagine how I’d have fun again.”
That fear didn’t go away overnight. But something else grew stronger—hope.
After treatment, Marcus began attending Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), Narcotics Anonymous (NA), and Cocaine Anonymous. Surrounded by others with similar stories, he discovered something he never thought possible:
“Life without substances isn’t just possible—it’s better than anything I had before.”
Through community, daily action, and the power of shared experience, Marcus began to heal. One lesson, in particular, stands out:
“I learned I don’t have to worry about next month or next year. All I have to do is not use today. That simple truth has changed my life.”
After eight years of sobriety, Marcus still shows up for meetings. And recently, his support group showed up for him. When he returned to his old home group in Topeka, friends surprised him with a cake for his birthday and a celebration of his 8-year chip—a surprise organized by his wife and recovery family across two cities.
“The love and joy in that room were overwhelming. These people are my family.”
His encouragement to anyone just starting out?
“Please come. Try to see the similarities, ignore the differences. Take what makes sense and leave the rest. But most of all—keep coming back. You do not have to do this alone. It’s a ‘WE’ thing—and we’re waiting for you to show up.”
Learn more: aa.org | na.org | ca.org
Names and identifying details have been changed to protect privacy and honor the individual’s story.
- Learn More: senttopeka.com/empower-to-heal-a-year-of-support-awareness
- Join The Road to Recovery Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/theroadtorecoverytopeka
#FindYourPeople | June SUD Awareness Campaign
At SENT, recovery is supported through community.
Our wraparound services help individuals and families build stability, healing, and long-term success:
- Mental Health & Substance Use Disorder Services – Trauma-informed counseling and recovery care
- Neighbor Advocacy – One-on-one case management connecting neighbors to the resources they need to thrive
- Housing Programs – Affordable housing, the Curb Appeal Program, and more.
- Southside Filling Station – Access to fresh, healthy groceries through our client-choice food pantry
- Southside Wellness Clinic – Express health care and wellness services
- Avondale East Care Center Partners – Chiropractic, massage therapy, occupational therapy, pet care, and more