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As someone who’s watched my sister, Michelle Holley, fight a long and difficult battle with substance use disorder, I feel both a deep pride and a renewed sense of purpose in sharing her story. Michelle’s journey has been one of courage, resilience, and an incredible will to reclaim her life. Through "Cure the Conversation," I want to help others see substance use disorder—and recovery—through a compassionate lens, one that honors the challenges and celebrates the victories of those who walk this path.
Life Beyond Substance Use Disorder: Michelle’s Story
Michelle is so much more than her recovery story. She’s adventurous, fun-loving, and deeply connected to the natural world. Watching her rediscover her passions—like being in nature, hiking in the mountains, and even dreaming of swimming with killer whales—has been a joy. She finds happiness in simple pleasures, like relaxing on Sundays with football, fresh air in the mountains, and loving on her furbaby Nibsey. I’ve seen her reconnect with life, nature, and herself, and it’s been a powerful reminder of what recovery can bring back.
Michelle’s journey hasn’t been easy, and I’ve seen her lean on the people who love her most. Our family, her friends, coworkers, and peers in recovery have stood by her through the darkest times, never giving up on her. Our grandmother, in particular, was always a rock, offering Michelle unconditional love and acceptance. "She never gave up on me or shut me out," Michelle says, and I know how true that is. This love and support have been so essential to her recovery and have shown me just how important it is for those facing substance use disorder to have people who believe in them.
With the help of the Southeast Utah District Health Department, we ( Marketing Elevated) created "Cure the Conversation" to help others see beyond the stereotypes and misconceptions surrounding substance use disorder. There’s this myth that recovery is easy, like a "pink cloud" people ride once they stop using. But as Michelle puts it, "Recovery is hard, but not harder than living in active addiction." It’s not a flawless journey, and it certainly isn’t about being perfect—it’s about showing up, every single day, with a commitment to live better and grow stronger. I’ve watched Michelle break down barriers in her life, and it’s taught me that recovery looks different for everyone, and that’s okay.
Today, Michelle has earned her certified peer support specialist certificate, and it’s something she’s incredibly proud of. She’s found purpose in helping others who face similar struggles, and I can see how she brings her own authenticity and genuine heart to every connection she makes. Recovery has shown her—and all of us—her true strength.
Michelle’s journey is a testament to the power of hope and perseverance. Her advice to others fighting substance use disorder is something that resonates with me: "Never give up, no matter how hard life gets or how hopeless things may seem. There is no darkness without light." She’s committed to continuing her growth, learning, and giving back to the community. She wants others to know that recovery is possible, even when it feels out of reach.
Creating a Space for Understanding
"Cure the Conversation" isn’t just about telling stories; it’s about changing the way we, as a community, understand substance use disorder. By sharing Michelle’s story, I hope to create a space where others can feel seen and understood. Substance use disorder isn’t a flaw, and recovery isn’t a destination—it’s a journey that deserves respect, compassion, and acknowledgment.
For everyone who reads this, I invite you to join us in curing the conversation, to shift our perspective, and to create a community that supports recovery with open hearts and open minds. Michelle’s story, like so many others, shows us that hope is always possible, and that together, we can make a difference.
WITH
MUCH LOVE,
-Amanda Paiz
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