After spending a month of sobriety at a treatment program at Hazelden, I knew that I needed to continue my recovery work. I was attracted to Gray Wolf Ranch because of its emphasis on outdoor activities. It was important to me to be able to get outside and do something, to get my mind off things.

My first reaction to Gray Wolf was how welcoming the people were and how well they met my needs. But, during the first few weeks I spent at Gray Wolf, I found that I was one of the oldest of the residents; I remember feeling like the program was childish and definitely not for me. I really wanted to leave. But, after much discussion, David and Peter convinced me to stick it out. Over the next three months, I stayed sober, found a job, and learned how to live in the world. It wasn't easy. I truly believe that I couldn't have done it on my own.

I liked the small size of the group, which ranged from eight to twelve residents while I was there. Every night, we had an hour-and-a-half group meeting where we talked out our problems, shared our feelings, and supported each other. I discovered that we really all had the same problems, despite differences in age and background. The wilderness treks and outdoor activities really helped to pull our group together. Being in situations where we had to rely on and trust each other helped to break down barriers and open us up to asking for and giving help an important step for me.

One of the challenging requirements of the program at Gray Wolf is going out and finding a job. Although David, Peter and staff provide lots of guidance, you're ultimately on your own. At first, I was turned down for several jobs. If I hadn't had the support of the group and the counselors, I know I would have turned to drugs to ease the pain and feelings of rejection—instead, I could go back home in the evening and talk through my emotions, recognize that other people had similar experiences, and work out ways to take the next step.

I eventually found a construction job, working on one of Port Townsend's historic buildings. From nine to five I was on my own and responsible for my own life, but I knew I had support and guidance back at Gray Wolf to help when things got tough. With the help of the program, I was able to resist temptations. When I was invited to go out to a bar or to partake of drugs, I knew I could go back to Gray Wolf and gain the courage to say no. Along with the other residents, I experienced having sober fun for the first time: going skiing, sailing, hiking without drugs or alcohol.

I found that Port Townsend was a nice town with friendly people, and the small-town atmosphere was actually a big help. I spent my spare time volunteering at the Wooden Boat Foundation, sailing with someone from town, and attending the required recovery meetings. In the process, I had a chance to meet people in town who were living sober and dealing with the lifelong effort to stay sober. It helped to know some people who had been through what I had and had successfully overcome their addiction.

My advice if you’re thinking about coming here: be prepared to give it time and stick it out. The first month is tough. But if you stay, listen to what others have to say, and work with the program, you’ll learn so much. Going to Gray Wolf Ranch is worth every penny. I know I wouldn’t be where I am now if I had quit. Thanks, David and Peter.