The journey from addiction to advocacy is not an easy one, but for Susan Nyamora, it has been a path of hope and transformation. As the President of the South florida Wellness Network (SFWN), Susan has turned her personal struggles into a beacon of hope for others. Her story is one of resilience and the power of shared experience.
SFWN is not your typical drug treatment center. Walking into one of its four locations, you might find arcade games, graffiti on the walls, or even a drum circle. This unique approach is designed to make clients feel comfortable and represented. “They want to have enough space that represents who they are,” Susan explains. This innovative environment is just one aspect of SFWN’s peer counselor program, where those who have overcome addiction offer support to those still in recovery.
From Personal Struggle to Professional Leadership
Susan’s journey began with a struggle against cocaine addiction that started in her teenage years. After her fifth arrest for cocaine possession, she entered treatment and emerged with a new sense of hope. This hope fueled her ambition, leading her to earn a master’s degree in social work. Her first job in the field was as a case manager for the Susan B. Anthony Center. In 2014, she was offered the opportunity to lead SFWN, a role that perfectly suited her lived experience.
“They were looking for somebody that had lived experience to build a program,” Susan recalls. Under her leadership, SFWN has grown to offer a range of community outreach programs, including pickleball tournaments and visits to local festivals to distribute naloxone and offer help. These initiatives have made a significant impact, with SFWN helping over 1,000 teens and adults on their journey toward recovery.
The Power of Shared Experience
At the heart of SFWN’s success is the power of shared experience. Melissa Stenquist, the Supervisor of the Pregnancy and Parenting Center, started her treatment journey in 2008. She credits Susan and SFWN for playing a pivotal role in her recovery. “She really fought and advocated for me,” Melissa says. After completing her treatment, Melissa decided to help others and now uses her lived experience to educate and empower individuals.
“I get to use my lived experience and my mistakes to just educate and empower another individual,” Melissa explains. This sentiment is echoed by Allie Christman, who was recently discharged from SFWN. Allie’s addiction started in her teens and made it challenging to care for her 3-year-old daughter. She found crucial support from Susan and SFWN, which helped her get her life back on track.
“They can understand me in a way like a therapist can’t, you know?” Allie says. This understanding is a key aspect of SFWN’s approach. The organization believes that recovery is a long-term process that requires love, care, and visibility. “They’re human beings who really need to be loved, cared and seen,” Susan emphasizes.
Creative Spaces for Healing
The Hollywood treatment center is a testament to SFWN’s innovative approach. Here, you’ll find graffiti on the walls, gaming areas, and music, creating an environment that resonates with teens and young adults. This creative space is designed to make clients feel at home and comfortable, fostering a sense of belonging that is crucial for recovery.
SFWN’s unique blend of peer support and creative spaces has made a tangible difference in the lives of many. By leveraging the power of shared experience, the organization is transforming the way addiction recovery is approached. Susan, Melissa, Allie, and the many others who have found hope and healing through SFWN are a testament to the power of empathy, understanding, and the belief that everyone deserves a chance to recover and thrive.
