Meet Us Monday: Robert, House Leader

Posted: August 14, 2023 | Author: Real Life Staff

This #MeetUsMonday, we’re introducing you to Robert Mowery, a Peer House Leader with REAL LIFE. Originally from California, Robert experienced a very abusive childhood.

He moved to Winchester to get away from the people and situations he was surrounded by. He was married at age 18 and had two children. While the marriage did not last, over the years, they have become good friends, have a wonderful relationship with each other, and their two children and seven grandchildren.

Robert used alcohol to forget the pain from his past and eventually ended up in legal trouble, which led to incarceration. After he was released, he turned to drugs to deadened his pain of his past. Again, he became addicted. While he was living in a house with drug dealers, the house was raided by the police. He was charged with gun possession and was incarcerated again.

During his second incarceration, Robert knew he wanted a change and a better life for himself. He found REAL LIFE and was excited for what the future held.

When he entered REAL LIFE, he was worried he would not be capable of completing the program. He quickly realized the structure, requirements, and accountability of REAL LIFE was exactly what he needed.

He learned that he had to take care of himself, mentally and physically, and put his recovery first. His fellow Lifers and the staff of REAL LIFE were always there for support and encouragement; there was someone you could go to 24/7, whenever you needed help.

Robert loves his job at Classic Party Rentals, which he found through working with REAL LIFE’s Employment Pathways Program. Everyone works hard, gets along, and it feels like one big family.

His advice to others is to take it one day at a time. Do not rush, it cannot be done overnight. It takes a long time to be completely healed. Put yourself and recovery before everything. You have to care about yourself and love yourself. Everything about life is choices, and you want to be able to make the right choices.

Keep up the great work, Robert!

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