Latanya's Story

I came to Crossroads for Women in February of 2005, straight from the Arizona Department of Corrections. My life before going to prison was wild and crazy.  I had no regard for people, places or things.  I was so strong in my addiction, that by any means necessary I did what I had to do to feed my addiction.  I stayed drunk and high twenty four hours a day.  This caused me to lose everything that I had.  The materialistic things disappeared immediately.  And over time I lost the things that were most valuable to me which was my spirituality, self respect, dignity, integrity, and my family.  I had lost myself in the midst of the vicious cycle of my addiction.  I had no self worth and no self esteem and had no clue that I could live a sober meaningful life.  At one point I was fighting to survive and the end I was barely in existence.  I had become my own worst enemy and had given up on life.

While incarcerated I began to take substance abuse classes and learned that I had some serious issues that needed to be addressed.  I did not honestly work the program there because every time I attempted to face myself I would instantly withdraw and not follow through.  One of the women in my substance abuse class paroled to Crossroads for Women and continued to correspond with me, she highly recommended that I parole there too.  She told me of the structure and what a good program that was offered there.  I sat on the idea for months and finally wrote a letter of interest to see if I would be accepted.  Within a week I had a response and had an interview over the phone.  The program coordinator told me that I was accepted and that she looked forward to meeting me.

The day that I checked into Crossroads was a very emotional day for me.  I was welcomed with open arms and felt like I was a part of something.  This had not ever happened to me before.  I would find a tear dropping from my eye all throughout the day.  I could not explain in words that day what was happening, but today I know that those were my first tears of happiness.  Today, I know that God did for me what I could not do for myself.

I got a sponsor right away and began to work my steps honestly.  I also obtained a job and became self sufficient.  The job I had was just enough for me to get by, but it sure helped with my self esteem and confidence.  This process taught me how to be humble.  Living at Crossroads and working the 12 step program has helped me to build a strong foundation in my sobriety.

After being at Crossroads Midtown for Women for 7 months I was to become Resident Manager.  I accepted the invitation and I still continue to work nights at Midtown.  During this time I have also become a full-time student at Phoenix College.  And if God is willing I will be graduating with my Associate’s Degree this coming May.  I will transfer to Arizona State University and continue my studies in Social Work specializing in chemical dependency.   I have developed a wonderfully strong support group and some friendships that I still have today.

I have my family back in my life today.  Just last week my 12 year old daughter who is my youngest of two, said to me that I am her hero.  My experience with Crossroads and the AA program has been one of great personal growth and fulfillment as well as professional growth.  I believe in Crossroads’ mission.  I will forever be grateful for the opportunities that I have been given through Crossroads.  It is truly an honor and a privilege to be a part of the family of Crossroads Midtown for Women.

Latanya Sanders