From Fear to Freedom: Becky’s Story of Recovery With MN Adult & Teen Challenge

Meet Becky:

I ended up in a marriage where we used drugs together, but living in a gated community, we could pretty much fool everybody and act like there was nothing bad going on in our household.

 

I was afraid to leave. I was afraid to tell anybody about what was happening, and I was just lost. I was just terrified, and I continued to do the only thing that I knew how to do and that was use.

 

One of the biggest misconceptions that I hear every week is that the worst drug addicts in our community are those experiencing homelessness.  Is there an addiction problem with this population?  Yes.  Studies show that about 26% of people who are homeless abuse drugs and about 38% abuse alcohol...but they aren't the only ones.  They are just the people you see.

Behind closed doors, behind gated communities, behind the windshield of some of the fanciest cars in Rochester, behind bathroom stalls at the office, are others who are struggling with addiction, too.

No Income Level In Minnesota Is Immune to Addiction

According to American Addiction Centers, about 21% of lawyers struggle with alcohol addiction.  Sunshine Behavioral Health stated that about "one-fourth of police officers admit to using drugs, including alcohol, marijuana, stimulants, and prescription pain pills."  Back in 2008, about 10 to 12% of U.S. doctors admitted to having a substance use disorder.

Overall, in white-collar professions, 70% of employers stated that they have staff who are struggling with prescription drug or alcohol abuse.  A survey done by the National Safety Council showed that the opioid epidemic is a major problem in our country and no income level is immune.  Read that again - NO income level is immune.

Yes, those experiencing homelessness need help, but so do people who have a roof over their head, like Becky.

Get our free mobile app

There Is More To Becky's Story - She Broke Free From Her Addiction Thanks To An Organization in Minnesota

 

I would never have been able to make it without Teen Challenge.

This is the one thing that has changed my life around.

I know that God can heal and protect and unconditionally love.

- Becky

Becky is just one of hundreds of people in Minnesota who have broken free from their addiction.  I know it might be hard to visualize who Becky is, but on October 9th, you have a chance to meet several people just like her and hear their stories at the MN Adult & Teen Challenge Gala in Rochester.

Everything You Need To Know About the MN Adult & Teen Challenge Gala in Rochester

WHEN: Thursday, October 9th, 2025

WHERE: Rochester International Event Center, 7333 Airport View Drive SW, Rochester, MN

TIME: 5:30 pm - 9:30 pm

WHAT TO EXPECT: See the lives that have been restored and the freedom that's possible with the support of people like you.  Enjoy a meal, one of the largest silent auctions in Minnesota, live music, and amazing stories of recovery.

BUY TICKETS NOW: Tickets are limited and sell out fast.  Grab yours now at the MN Adult & Teen Challenge website.

What To Do Next If You Or A Loved One Needs Help For Drug Or Alcohol Addiction

If you are someone struggling like Becky, please know that you are loved and there are so many people who are ready to surround you with support at Minnesota Adult & Teen Challenge in Rochester.

This organization provides customized care for men and women and will help you find a treatment that fits your life including short-term, long-term, and outpatient care.  Find your freedom today and visit mntc.org or call 612-361-5417

Get our free mobile app

Do you have an event coming up in Southeast Minnesota?

Every year, we help the community in a variety of ways from supporting local fundraisers, to running daily public service messages, to creating digital community campaigns and hosting events attended by thousands. Learn more about how Townsquare Media Cares here.

If you have an event coming up or work for a nonprofit in Southeast Minnesota, I'd love to learn more! Send me a note at jessica.williams@townsquaremedia.com or on my Facebook page - Jessica On The Radio.