Ah yes… Valentine’s Day. That glittery, heart-shaped holiday that shows up right after we’ve survived Christmas and New Year’s Eve—emotionally, financially, and in some cases, chemically. Have you ever wondered whose bright idea it was to schedule three emotionally loaded holidays in a row? For many people, the stretch from December through February can be the most difficult time of the year. Add problematic relationships into the mix—and especially addiction or recovery—and this season can … [Read more...] about Valentine’s Day Without the Fantasy: A Love Story that Starts with You
Addiction recovery
It’s Not Too Late… Until It IS Too Late
Recently I’ve heard from a few “new” clients that they have been following me for several years. They have read my blog articles, my newsletters, and watched my many YouTube recordings and my TEDx talk. They have read my ebooks and my book Loving an Addict, Loving Yourself: The Top 10 Survival Tips for Loving Someone with an Addiction. And yet the situation with the addict in their life has gone on – sometimes for years – without much change. Although they report that they have been helped by … [Read more...] about It’s Not Too Late… Until It IS Too Late
Anchoring Hope during the Holidays, If You Love an Addict
Loving an addict is never easy. In fact, it can be the most brutal task in the world. If you love someone with an addiction – a son, daughter, parent, spouse, friend – you will find yourself walking on a lot of eggshells, careful not to do or say anything that can be misconstrued or make them angry. But perhaps that isn’t the best way to handle these uncomfortable situations, especially at the Holidays. Maybe there’s a better way, an easier way than staying quiet and hoping for the best? We … [Read more...] about Anchoring Hope during the Holidays, If You Love an Addict
Reflections on Receiving the AgeCare Seniors of Distinction Award
On October 1, 2025, I was deeply honoured to receive the AgeCare Seniors of Distinction Award for Leadership — an award that recognizes the contributions, resilience, and leadership of older adults in our communities. To be honest, this award feels less like a personal achievement and more like a celebration of what’s possible when we keep showing up — with love, purpose, and perseverance — no matter what life brings. Leading Through Life’s Challenges When I turned 65, I made a decision: I … [Read more...] about Reflections on Receiving the AgeCare Seniors of Distinction Award
Recovery Month: Honouring the Journey of Families and Loved Ones
Every September, Recovery Month offers us a poignant reminder of the challenges, triumphs, and ongoing journeys of individuals and families navigating the path of addiction recovery. It’s a time to reflect on the impact of substance use disorders, celebrate the strength of those who choose recovery, and acknowledge the vital role of families and communities in this process. My own story, from a harrowing 15-year battle with opioid addiction to over 38 years of sobriety and a rewarding career as … [Read more...] about Recovery Month: Honouring the Journey of Families and Loved Ones
