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A Home Away Testimonials
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Endorsements of John Derry, A Home Away Retreat“Years ago I was told that if the “alphas” of the world would just pick up their reins, the planet would be a markedly better place. I kept thinking about this, a little sorry for myself that I clearly wasn’t an alpha, let alone one with reins …John Derry is one of the many teachers in my life who helped me to begin to see that, indeed, we’re all alphas – and helped me to begin to pick up my reins. This is what I know to be true of John Derry: he leads by example; he suits up and shows up; he lives the principles of his convictions and seeks to make a difference in the lives of others while walking softly with dignity and integrity in this life. When John first told me about his dream to found A Home Away Retreat, as a new model of care, and about the actions he was taking toward that, I was so very moved. In that moment, without either of us knowing it, he gave me permission to follow my own dream, some seven years later. It’s how this deal works. It’s a pleasure to know and to recommend John Derry. The world needs more of him.” May 7, 2010 Leslie Holt, Markham, Ontario “John is a highly skilled and knowledgeable professional who, along with his staff, creates a caring environment to allow healing and renewal for those in need.” April 16, 2010 Top qualities: Great Results, Expert Gale May, Markham, Ontario “I have known John Derry for the past five and a half years, four of those from working as a Massage Practitioner at A Home Away. I see John as being one of the highest authorities in the field of addictions. Both his personal and professional experiences have enabled him to develop the expertise and compassion that is so essential to be effective and successful in his field. His passion, dedication, and conviction towards his work is admirable!” April 17, 2010 Tia Cherneski, Massage Practiitoner, Kelowna, BC “John has the vision and commitment to start and develop an unique residential treatment program. He demonstrates honesty and respect with all guests. I have always felt and been treated as a respected colleague.” Art Gillan, Counesllor, A Home Away Retreat Inc “John is a man for whom I have had high regard since meeting him nearly two years ago — and working with, and for him in that period.. He has the ability to bring out the very best in people with whom he works and those who he guides though their life processes. I highly recommended John.” April 15, 2010 Casey J. Gryba, M.A., D.D Ecclesiastical Coordinator, United Centers for Spiritual Living, Kelowna, BC “I am delighted to recommend John Derry. I have know John over many years and have always been impressed by his integrity, intelligence and his kindness. He has been a leader in many roles over the course of his career and I am sure that John will continue to be successful in all endeavours. I have no doubt that he continues to make a real difference in the lives of people with whom he works.” April 15, 2010 Karen Graham, Owner, Panacea Canada Inc. “John is a meticulous and detail oriented worker with great communication skills and intuitive counselling abilities. He manages people well and is a great listener.” April 15, 2010 Steve Crane, Family Counselor, Hazelden Foundation, Minnesota, USA “John and the people at A Home Away delivered on their promises. John provides a safe, supportive, clearly structured environment for rehabilitation from addiction. Like most, I had little idea of the scope required for an effective program yet I can report that I was more than happy with the results of his program and the people within the organization.” April 15, 2010 Top qualities: Expert, Good Value Stew G., Vancouver, BC “Although I have not yet met John personally, his reputation as the Director of A Home Away is far-reaching. A client of mine who recently completed the program there, one who had been having major difficulty maintaining her sobriety, told me she is very aware that AHA saved her life. I am hoping to make a trip to A Home Away to visit John (and Jane) and see the wonderful treatment centre he has created. Thanks John, for following your dream and being such an inspiration to so many who need you!” April 3, 2010 Top qualities: Personable, Expert Candace Plattor, Counsellor, Vancouver, BC “I’ve had the opportunity to spend time at A Home Away Retreat as their public relations representative, and I can attest to the extraordinary work that goes on there. John’s program is top-shelf as far as I’m concerned and I’d give he and Jane my highest endorsement. They run a GREAT program.” April 15, 2010 Gary Stromberg, The BLACKBIRD Group, California, USA “From the first moment I met John at his office at A Home Away it was clear he was committed to his work helping others overcome their addictions. I was impressed not just with his training and expertise but with the sincerity and passion with which he applies it. If you or anyone you know is struggling with an addiction I would highly recommend they meet with John Derry.” April 15, 2010 Larry Arrance., Sr. Marketing Coach, Cornerstone Consultants, Kelowna, BC “I enjoy working for John at A Home Away. As Director of A Home Away, John has developed a well rounded program for Addictions Recovery. John is supportive of, and encourages, program developement. It’s refeshing to be challenged this way.” April 28, 2010 Jim Copeman, Owner, Feel The Rhythm Drum Circles “John is an energetic, knowledgeable and results oriented visionary who continuously stirives for a better way, both professionally and personally. His personal attributes of compassion, optimism, intuition, and empathy have a tremendous impact on everyone he interacts with. He is an effective teacher and motivator who gives people the tools and support needed to affect change in their lives.” April 15, 2010 Jim Stewardson, Director, HR, Kraft Foods, Canada “I had an opportunity to work with john through several functions at GSK. John maintained strong business thinking while balancing medical integrity. This professional approach garnered trust and respect and John was an integral part of all brand teams where he was involved.” May 8, 2010 Colin Dickey, Sales Representative, GlaxoSmithKline “Had the pleasure to work with John at Glaxo and found him to be a sound, honest, knowledgeable individual with excellent leadership abilities. Pleasure to work with and remain connected.” May 2, 2010 Peter Pichini, Management, GSK “I worked with John during his “power years” at Glaxo. We worked closely on many projects and cross-functional teams and John was always reliable and dependable, ensuring that he and his staff met their obligations. He was also a gentleman with whom I enjoyed working.” April 27, 2010 Robert Taylor, Director, Business Development, GSK “I had the pleasure of working with John at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre and GlaxoWellcome / GlaxoSmithKline. I first met John at Sunnybrook, where he was one of my instructors. He was very patient and thorough, knowing just how much independence to give his students. Later, as staff at Sunnybrook, I found John to be extraordinarily professional and an excellent team player with a terrific sense of humour. I was delighted to find out that John was working at GW/GSK when I joined the organization. Along with the professionalism I had come to expect, I had greater exposure to John’s ability to embrace change (specifically with respect to IT technologies) and his ability to connect with people, in a meaningful way, as individuals. John always treated his colleagues with the highest dignity and respect.” April 23, 2010 Nicole Lee, Owner, Nightshade Creations “I knew John while we worked at GlaxoWellcome. He was very well regarded by his colleagues and extremely capable. In our many discussions he was always very helpful, thoughtful and focused, traits important to his second career at A Home Away Retreat.” April 22, 2010 David Tesarowski, Associate Director, Clinical Research, GlaxoWellcome “Throughout the past year, I have observed and corresponded with John and Jane in the “social media world.” I admire their genuine passion for the struggling addict. Their “non-institutional rehab center”, A Home Away truly promises to be a place of hope, a rare “one of a kind” gem in the world of treatment resources.” April 20, 2010 Judy Herzenak, Dir. Creative Development and Marketing, Changing Lives Foundation “My professionnal interactions with John have given me an impression of him as being a leader with strong relationship buiding skills, very knowledgeable. He was respected and trusted, known for his high integrity and honesty.I would not hesitate to recommend his services to friends and family.” April 19, 2010 Manon Sabourin, HR Manager, GSK “John is a true professional with excellent business skills, solid scientific knowledge and strong management abilitiies.It was a real pleasure to work with John.” April 17, 2010 Lucy Arnoldo., Finance Manager, GlaxoSmithkline Canada “John has always been honest and sincere in all of his interactions. Any advice he has given me has been well thought out and based on his own life experiences.” April 16, 2010 Henry Raud., Senior Manager of R&D, Avaya, Pickering, Ontario “I have known John Derry for some twenty years and consider him to be a high quality professional who is a straight shooter. He always demonstrated a customer centric attitude and had very good listening skills. He was able to evaluate the needs of others and ensured that his possible solutions would be a good fit for the client.” April 15, 2010 Wayne Guppy., Senior Manager Market Development, Glaxo Canada “John’s experience and knowledge in Chemical dependency, gambling, other addictions, give him insight into the requirements and needs of his guests and his hospitality is outstanding” Top qualities: Expert, High Integrity, Creative” April 15, 2010 Ray Keen., Owner, Sherwood Hospitality, Kelowna, BC “John Derry and his team of health care professionals provide a unique opportunity to participate in your own healing and recovery. An “A Home Away Retreat” experience offers guests from all walks of life a much needed service!” April 15, 2010 Jill Parsons., Accredited Music Therapist/Spiritual Director, Vancouver, BC “John is a wonderful person who has continually provided excellent service to the recovery community for addiction and alcoholism. His non-institutional approach to treatment is, hands down, an asset to those who seek recovery in the early stages. Both personally and professionally I would recommend John for any venture he and/or his team would choose to pursue.” April 15, 2010 Philip Cory., Owner, Treatment USA “I have dealt with John Derry for 4 years planning and implementing Marketing campaigns in ShopinCities.com. Over this time I have experienced the great dedication John has in his business and his business relationships. John is always prompt and professional in all his dealings with me and quick respond when needed. It is my pleasure to recommend John and A Home Away Retreat.” April 15, 2010 Idella Mensink., Internet Marketing Specialist, Shopincities.com “During my tenure at GSK, I had the pleasure of working with John in a Business Development project. John showed excellent leadership skills and invigorated the project team with his energy and passion. I thoroughly enjoyed working with John.” April 15, 2010 Anne Cheung., Manager/Director, Business Development, GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) “I feel like I’ve known John forever. John took a very courageous step in moving from the security of a corporate salary to his own ventures. I have been thrilled to watch John every step of the way. If you need customized help for your problem addiction, or know of someone who does, contact John. He walks the talk!” November 16, 2007 Keith Bray [LION] toplinked.com, Owner/Partner, Keith Bray Associates,LTD. “I worked with John in different capacities at GlaxoWellcome and GlaxoSmithKline. His thoughtfulness and caring for his team were exceptional and he was always able to balance the needs of the business with the people aspects of the job. As a peer, I came to rely on his high standards of integrity, his warmth and his attention to detail.” April 27, 2010 Kathryn Simpson., Strategic Change Manager, GlaxoSmithKline Canada “I am happy to write this recommendation for John. I greatly appreciated our interactions in the past. John strikes me as a dedicated person who is focussed on the needs of the team and of the individuals within the team to advance projects.” April 22, 2010 Gilbert Nadeau., Professional Communications, GlaxoSmithKline Canada “John is a professional dedicated to excellence in whatever he does. He always acts with integrity, and brings a positive attitude, enthusiasm, and creative solutions to the table. John is able to combine organizational objectives effectively with financial accountability.” May 1, 2009 Angelo Falotico., Finance Manager – R&D, GlaxoSmithKline, Canada Posted on: 2011-02-03 15:23:10. Comments
Testimonials from our Guest BookJohn and Jane. Life sometimes takes us to unexpected places; somehow I managed to make it to A Home Away. You have shown me a bright light in a dark room. Thank you for supporting me, lifting me up when I was down, showing me courage and love. I was a young frightened girl walking into this place and now I am a woman with God by her side walking her way out. You have helped me to find everything in life I was looking for. I love MYSELF! Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.Natasha North West Territories, Canada Dear John and Jane, and the rest of you! You all played a huge part in helping me recover. I cannot express my gratitude and respect enough. It sure has been an eye opener and I will miss you all very much. I will be back to visit all of you wonderful people. Until then, "One Day At A Time". Thank you so much. Curtis Red Deer, Alberta John and A Home Away: A big old thank you goes out to this place of love. It has greatly helped and opened my once cloudy sight and thought. Everything I have learned here will be greatly useful tools in my new journey of recovery. I will always have a place in my heart for all I have met and shared so much of life with. Once again, thank you. Love always, Shawn Palm Desert, California I would just like to say, what a great caring, loving place A Home Away has been for me. I truly believe that this place has helped me to open my eyes for the future, Thank you so much for the love and guidance I have received. Love, Jay Toronto, Ontario To John, Jane and the rest of the staff at A Home Away: It has been an incredible experience through all the ups and downs. Never in my life have I been so challenged and fortunate to see what a gift you guys have given me. You are truly a devoted bunch and are one of a kind. May God bless you every day. Thank you for everything. Love you lots! Brett Fort Mac Murray, Alberta To John, Jane, and all the staff at A Home Away: Thank you for all the help, guidance and love for my new journey. My stay at A Home Away was truly a great experience. I have had many "revelations" during my stay and have made some wonderful new friends. Lloyd Seattle, Washington Well I never thought I’d say this – A Home Away has really become like a second home to me. This home and all the amazing, loving, talented people here have provided me a safe, nurturing place to uncover and discover and empower the real me. I now feel as though I have a place in this world. At 26 years old, I finally feel whole, I love myself! My gratitude runs so deep, it is hard to express in words. Thank you from the bottom of my heart! Andrea Kelowna, British Columbia My first introduction to A Home Away was in June of 2006 when I asked John Derry, Director, for help. I had been struggling with the disease of addiction and had finally reached a spiritual, emotional, and physical bottom. John invited me to be a guest at his addiction treatment centre, A Home Away in Kelowna, BC, in order to regain my life. That day, John’s gift to me was the gift of hope. He let me know that I wasn’t alone and that if I was willing, I too could walk the path to recovery. No letter, no words, could ever express the value of one addict helping another. John had just let me know that as long as I wanted it badly enough, I could walk the same path he had…. There was hope! I participated in the residential recovery program at A Home Away under John’s guidance where I learned how to feel again. A Home Away treats your body, mind, and soul. My substance abuse was a symptom of my illness; I was what I needed to heal! The days following have progressed to months, and now to years. A Home Away, and John Derry’s residence are open to me in time of need, or to just stop by to share a meal with him and his guests. I find it difficult to express the feeling of comfort and security that this provides me on a daily basis. I know that no matter what happens in my life, A Home Away is a safe place for me to go. In my time of need, when chemical dependency was destroying my life, John of A Home Away reached out his hand and pulled me from the ledge. He saved a lost person that day, not a bad person trying to be good, but a sick person trying to get well. Today, I know that I am one of many who share the same experience. Not so long ago, I ran into John at his favorite coffee shop and I was finally able to say thank you to him for saving my life, for there is no doubt that that is what he did that day. Little did the other coffee patrons know that sitting amongst them were two miracles that day. Both of them had the courage and strength to change their lives, and one of them had the wisdom and compassion to share that with others. It is truly a miracle for one person to come back from the depths of addiction, and it is a miracle amongst miracles to save others along the way. BJ Kelowna, British Columbia Look back on memories momentarily as this is the past. Look ahead with hope and courage momentarily as this is the future. Be present right now as this is God’s gift. Live in this moment with honesty. Look at the world through a child’s eyes with openness and wonder. Feel reborn, each day, each hour, each minute. As two moments will never again be the same. Open your heart to love, and your soul to God. Then find inner peace. Then live life, right now, this moment, ‘Cause this is the present, And this is God’s gift! Thank you A Home Away for teaching me about living life each minute and for all the love you’ve shown me. Mostly thanks for showing me a path to God. Forever grateful, Trevor Edmonton, Alberta Dear Family, as I sit here and try to reflect on the past 42 days I cannot help but think back to day 1 – I was bent, broken and self-destructive. Today – I leave a beautiful young woman strong in my convictions with a happy heart. I never knew that my life could be touched in such a miraculous way that would transform every dimension of it forever. My mother gave birth to me, but A Home Away has given me life! My heart swells with immeasurable joy, pride and love when I thinking of all of you. Thank you, thank you thank you for nurturing me, loving me, and give me back myself. Mary New York, New York To all staff and guests at A Home Away: I feel a hundred pounds lighter! I get that although I did some bad things, I am not a bad person. I feel my shame basket is empty now. I feel balanced for the first time. I feel grounded, happy, optimistic. I feel like myself, a new enlightened self. I know that all of these feelings were made possible by the dedication, honest, love and respect that was graciously shown me by you during my stay. My discovery is complete, and my recovery begins. Thank you all. PS. To my wife and children: Thank you for showing me the path to A Home Away; the path to sobriety and happiness. Brad Calgary, Alberta This was the hardest emotional journey I’ve ever experienced with the greatest rewards! I love life now and am ready to face the good and the "unknown" with excitement – yahoo! Thank you for the honesty, love and support. Lovingly, Carrie Halifax, Nova Scotia Dear John, Jane, and all of the other staff members and facilitators. The words I write here don’t begin to reach the depth to which I have been touched. My journey here has literally brought me from death’s door to a place of self realization and strength that I could never have imagined. John your vision has already touched so many and has provided me with a plan and commitment to my recovery, but more than that a true deep discovery of who I am. I take with great gratitude the tools to manage and develop my craft – Life! Thank you for this safe healing place and for all the beautiful people who have given me strength through their stories. I will never forget or lose touch. Love, Tania Portland, Oregon To everyone who walks through this house: This will always be my recovery house. The gifts I have been open to receive here are amazing, and this book is not big enough to write them in. I have been given my life back and found my creator. I will always have a place in my heart for A Home Away; it truly is a home. All my love to everyone. P.S. Give Cocoa a cookie for me! Will Vancouver, British Columbia Dear John and Jane and household (Cocoa too). I love both of you. I’ve never felt this kind of true love before – wherein trust graces it’s very presence – I really do feel like a chick freshly hatched. "Its a Brave New World" for me now. I will call upon my higher power for every moment – sad or happy. But mostly joy in my heart. It’s about time that I feel this – and it is at A Home Away that joy showed itself. Love you, thank you. Sincerely, Anthony Winnipeg, Manitoba "A Home Away" I have experienced the most incredible journey of my life. The road I have traveled the past 42 days has been everything form bumpy to rocky, rainy, sunny, slippery, beautiful, exciting ant the list goes on. Along this journey I have faced fear and found, love, joy, acceptance, trust, forgiveness, and faith. As I continue down that road I will carry the knowledge I have gained, and AHA will forever be my traveling companion. Love, Shannon San Antonia, Texas To John and Jane and every one else at A Home Away: I could not have imagined what today is like. I will never forget this day or the people I have shared it with. Today I can say that I am happy! For me that is huge. I would like to say thank you for helping me to become the man I am, the man I have always wanted to be. For that I will never forget you. You will always be in my prayers. Thank you. Mike Kelowna, British Columbia To John and A Home Away. You guided me and taught me how to face my fears. You taught me how to be real and how to truly honour myself. You taught me how to live in the present, and how to have peaceful closure with the past. You gave me a foundation to build a new life around, and you taught me how to live life on life’s terms. You helped me to help myself. I will never forget you, you’ll always have a place in my heart! I love you all. Peace, Bruno Los Angeles, California To everyone at a Home Away, I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for allowing me to have an incredible healing experience while I was here. I now I have experienced so much growth in all the areas: physical, emotional, mental and spiritual. I now love myself and have learned now to let go of the shame and guilt of the past and the constant worry about the future, and to live in the present! I have so much in my life to be grateful for, which I now see. Thank you all! Take care and I will come and visit often. Diane Kelowna, British Columbia To John, Jane, and all others, and of course, Cocoa: I cannot express my gratitude enough for your help. You have showed me a new path, a light in the darkness! My nightmare is over, my journey begins. I will always keep you all in my heart. My eyes are open now, because of you. Ana Charlotte, North Carolina Thank you to everybody at A Home Away for making me feel like part of your family. I am grateful for all the help, love and support that I have received. Take care and all the best. Tara Edmonton, Alberta John and Jane, I am so grateful and blessed that each and every one of you made my experience at A Home Away absolutely unforgettable. In the past 42 days, I’ve been challenged in ways I never imagined – but it was all worth it. You’ve given me the tools, support and now I need to do the work – Your belief in me has allowed me to grow into the woman I never believed I could be – I love myself now and I love all of you. And my journey doesn’t stop here, it is just beginning and by being honest, open and willing and living in the moment – I believe everything will work out as it should. I choose sobriety and I choose to be happy. I feel cautiously confident moving forward. I thank you more than words can say. Thank you, thank you, thank you. Jessie Salt Lake City, Utah Thank you for lifting the fog so I could sail thru safely. I am leaving you only in body…I will always be here at A Home Away in spirit. I’ll free those feelings and its time to go!! Craig Kamloops, British Columbia John, Jane and friends, I thank you all for putting me back on the map and teaching me the way of a happy life. Murray Fort Mac Murray, Alberta To AHA and all my friends. I will be forever indebted to this house of miracles. Thank you for believing in me and pushing me to go that extra step. My love to you all. John, words can’t express my gratitude. Thank you. Ronale Calgary, Alberta Just a short note to thank all the staff at A Home Away. Your guidance, insight, love and respect has provided me with a solid foundation for my healing and recovery process. I feel truly blessed to have had the opportunity to experience the love, honesty and openness at A Home Away. Thanks again, Love, Brian Spokane, Washington Dear John, I wanted to take a moment to thank you and all your staff for the time I spent at A Home Away. As you know, after I relapsed at another treatment centre, I was looking for a treatment center that had the following criteria: 1. Qualified, Professional Staff, 2. Twelve Step Program, 3. Professional Environment, 4. A business model based on spirituality. A Home Away gave me all of the above. Most importantly though, it gave me, Reid, back. I’m dead serious, I am back being proud of me and I am so excited about my future. It’s not necessary for me to breakdown and analyze my treatment and my growing spirituality, you know what I’m saying. I will never forget what you have given me John. Never. I know credit is due to all your staff. It’s a great team, please thank them. Say what you want John, but the bottom line is you are the quarterback. I owe you, and I won’t forget. You sell miracles John, I hope you never quit. You are doing the world good. I am going to be living proof of that. God bless you, and thank you. Love, Reid. Reid Calgary, Alberta What a beautiful thing to accomplish this feat, Having to meet expressing our feelings in this constant heat, Staying open and honest with our defeat. Now I’m free…with all this knowledge, and I’m free…with all this growth, and I’m free…to be myself. Traveling down the Road to Recovery. Kevin Nanaimo, British Columbia To All of my friends and family at AHA: I cannot express in words my gratitude and appreciation for the life you have breathed back into this wayward body and soul. I have learned skills to live a full life without the need for alcohol, and I have found and renewed passions I lost or never had. Thou I questioned your methods ?, I never questioned your motives, and have learned through the process of letting go and accepting what is, that life is good, and that there is a possibility for a rewarding and loving journey ahead. I love you all. Stephen San Diego, California To everyone who had made an impact on my life at AHA. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for all the hard work, from counseling to cooking meals, you all have contributed. With all my love, Mike Edmonton, Alberta To all my friends and family at A Home Away. I can not express my gratitude, and love, and appreciation, and hope, you have given me. I truly believe I am a better person because of you. Thank you for all you have given back to me. I couldn’t have done it without your guidance. You will always be in my prayers. God bless and than you. Wendy San Francisco, California John! If only words could express my many thanks for you and your vision for A Home Away. John you have given me my life back, and my family. Thank-you so much; you have given me the right direction. Thank you so much from the bottom of my heart. Oly Mobile, Alabama To my Home Away: Thank you so, so very much. You have given me my life back. And for that I am so grateful. You helped me find my true authentic self, which I am so proud of. You John, Jane, and everyone else have touched me oh so deeply. The staff are all truly amazing and have been my life coaches. I have learned what I took and will continue to learn what I take. I am humbled by your love and your gifts, and will carry you all in my hearts. You have not seen the last of this guy. I know life will be so grand. This I know for the first time. A Home Away will forever be with me. Thank you so much. I love you all from the bottom of my heart, soul and feet. Much love always, Andrew Victoria, British Columbia John and Staff of A home Away: There’s not a lot in my life that has been as powerful an experience as the one I’ve had here. My eternal gratitude to everyone who has helped to set the course to my recovery. I feel profoundly blessed to have been here for 6.5 weeks and for all the tools I’ve collected and for all the wisdom imparted. Nowhere could I have ever received the support and welcome that I know is here. Thank you John. May God bless all who cross over this threshold and enter A Home Away. Gratefully, Sue Ashville, North Carolina Very special thanks to everyone at A Home Away involved in my recovery. It’s been a long, hard journey and the battle was fierce. I’m so grateful that I have been restored to sanity. I pray that I will always remember how hard I had to fight to surrender. I can see now that its truly all about being willing, open minded and doing the work, and following the rules. Today I leave here with hope and the courage I asked for. I know staying present and living in the moment, one day at a time, will keep me safe, clean and sober. I know my life is great now! It’s truly a spiritual experience. Thanks and keep up the great work. Pauline Calgary, Alberta To John, Jane, and all at A Home Away: Each of you touched my heart in places I never knew existed. I came here practically dead and today, as I leave, I’m more alive than I’ve ever been. I leave with hope! Today at the closing medallion ceremony, I felt love and was able to give love in a way that I never knew existed. One of my dreams it to have a sailboat like yours someday; thank you John. The food, messages, films, recreation days, yoga and music were all gifts to me. So thank you all. Love always, Keyon Toronto, Ontario How To Live To think of others before one’s wealth Lend a hand, offer health Give advice when honest and true Greener grass, sky more blue. Face your failures, don’t run from fear Emotions surface, allow for tears Feel the moment, feet on the ground Music of silence, never makes a sound. Time comes when you take a leap Jump with your eyes closed, land on your feet Vulnerability, is a frightening thing Action equals reaction, breath in the meaning. Live your life, every moment a gift Treasure the relationships Fail allows lift. Faith without ego, letting go of control Finding your balance God fills your soul. Thank you for everything. Ryan Lethbridge, Alberta To John, Jane and all the facilitators and staff at A Home Away (and Cocoa), When I arrived here, I didn’t really know what I was looking for, only that I was looking for something that would make my life better. It turned out to be, in hindsight, remarkably simple – I was looking for RECOVERY. By providing a safe, warm and loving environment, and by exposing me to the true miracle of the twelve steps, I have found what that means. I have had over a month of truly amazing discovery and self-discovery. I thank God for having brought you into my life, and I am excited to being my recovery with Him at my side and you in my heart. Thank you for giving me a second chance at life. I am committed to live it fully and honestly, one day at a time. Love always, Terry London, Ontario John and all the A Home Away staff, The gratitude I have in my heart is indescribable! You have not only given me the tools for recovery but a whole new lease on life. And I plan on living that life to its utmost fullest. I love you all and will definitely remember you all for a very long time. Love you, Mona Vancouver, British Columbia To Everyone at A Home Away. Thank you for allowing me to find my soul (so long lost), my joy, my love of self. My journey now begins. Larry Montreal, Quebec To John and A Home Away, Thank you all for helping me find myself again. Thank you for your support and love. This has been a great experience for me. Thank you again, and I love you all. Brigita Eugene, Oregon John, Jane and A Home Away. This has been the most awesome experience I have ever had. Doors have been opened into my past for my future. I am excited to share my experience and feeling with …(my wife and children), some feelings and past experiences that I have not shared with them, a spiritual journey. Thank you and I love you all. Darin Lethbridge, Alberta To John and all who are a part of A Home Away: I truly thank you for the opportunity to find myself again. Within these walls lies an unending pool of love and support that I was invited to share from. Through you people and my fellow guests I was able to change my life! For that I’ll be eternally grateful. I’ll be checking up on my bowling record though. ? To all, keep the love and especially the laughter flowing. Gratefully, Devin Saskatoon, Saskatchewan To John, Jane, and the rest, Thank you with all my heart, you helped me find myself again! When I arrived at A Home Away, I was a broken shell of emptiness. I have found a loving father, son, brother and friend in myself that had been missing for way too long. Words can not show the gratitude that I feel for all of you. I’m OK now. I love you all. Thanks for being a major part of my recovery and life. All my love, Vince Fresno, California To all those who shared with me at A Home Away. I thank you for teaching me: How to feel again. How to express myself with the use of healthy boundaries. How to accept the thoughts which come into my head as neither good nor bad. How to keep life simpler by just accepting. How to replace the negative with the positive. How to feel and give love. How to believe and trust in God. And to love myself, for I am worthy and deserving. Until our path’s cross again, Love, John Winnipeg, Manitoba Thank you doesn’t seem enough. Your love, and compassion have helped me to see who I truly am and I am so excited to continue on my journey of self-discovery. To "feel" is an exhilarating thing and I thank you and love you for all you’ve done for me. I can’t even put into words how much A Home Away has been the best experience of my life. I will miss you all, you all know how I feel about you…I love you and you are my sources of inspiration. Fiona Kelowna, British Columbia Thank you for all your love and support. You are truly doing a remarkable thing here. You have inspired me; you gave me hope. James Seattle, Washington Thank you for having the courage to dream. It is enlightening and encouraging to experience a dream fulfilled. I have learned that it is OK to dream again and that I can believe that I have the power to make those dreams come true. Hope is an amazing gift, with hope comes so much else; courage, faith, serenity, happiness and commitment to name but a few. So Be It. Brant Kelowna, British Columbia You inspire me that dreams do come true! You are an exceptional man! You forced me to be responsible and own my wants! Tough love, a little hard to digest, but incredibly effective! Jennifer R Sherwood Park, Alberta The Home Away experience has been nothing less than life altering in the best and highest order. John and the team are the sunshine and moon dance in the lives of so many. Thank you so very much for all you’ve done and all that you continue to do! So be it. Love always, Randy Calgary, Alberta Wow what a whirlwind adventure! This place is what life should always be about: Love, Honesty, Openness, Friendship and Courage. Here I’ve found all those and much more. Thank you for helping me find "me". I will forever be grateful. John, you are a wise and wonderful man! T.J. Penticton, British Columbia I thought I knew it all and I didn’t. My whole life needed to be looked at and I am grateful. This place has opened my eyes to so many new things. I am excited to embark on my journey to reclaim my life. The time spent here was amazing; the friends I shared my time with will never be forgotten. This house has a warmth I’ve never experienced and will try to make my home feel as welcome as this one has to me. I will never forget what I learned here. I never thought I’d say this, God Bless you all. Jarrod Kelowna, British Columbia A Home Away, you walked with me through my past and my present. You gave me shelter from the storm. I thank you in every way for your sharing, caring and knowledge. Your gifts will stay with me always. Diana Vancouver, British Columbia The knowledge I have gained here in the last month has allowed me to begin my recovery in a spectacular way. I truly hope many more find the doors to this wonderful place. The tools offered here are something I would have never found on my own. All my love and thanks. Today I am sober – Today is a good day!! Tony Fox Creek, Alberta A Home Away, this place, wow. All I can say is Wow. This place and everyone in it helped me realize that there is a great life ahead of me. Thank you for helping me become the man I want to be. All the best, Ken Halifax, Nova Scotia I feel truly blessed to have had you all in my life. Thanks for all your wisdom, patience and time. Your energies are a life force to be reckoned with. This place will have a place in my heart forever. Whenever I look for serenity in my life, I will come back to this memory. Love Always, Leon Edmonton, Alberta I can only say Thanks, but will pray for you, so that your faces and memories will always remain in my mind, body and soul. There is no bigger gift, than the one you have given me. My Life! These are tears of joy I leave on this page, as I write, for you to remember and to be proud of the miracles you perform. Thank you. God Bless, Peter Brampton, Ontario Thank you from the bottom of my heart for helping me find myself. I love being Bonnie again. A Home Away is so warm and cozy. I had no time to be lonesome as I was at my second home. John you are awesome, I thank you. Bonnie Whitehorse, Yukon A Home Away truly is a gift of God; it is a gift that keeps on giving as each one of us leaves touching other people’s lives in our journey. For me it has given a new meaning to live life, I have rediscovered myself with feelings of who I am. I now will be the man, husband, and father that I truly am. A Home Away is filled with unconditional love which I’ve felt throughout my stay. For all that I’ve become throughout my stay, and my journey ahead, I thank you from my heart. Thanks for being part of my recovery and who I am. Robert Kamloops, British Columbia I can hardly find words to describe the transformation I feel I have begun since stepping through the doors here at A Home Away. Nothing remotely close to "adequate" comes to mind, as I write my last thoughts to all of you before my journey back to North Carolina. Each of you has given me so much; the ability to stop the denial and look at myself honestly; I stretched to forgive and then love myself; I came to forgive key people in my life; I was heard; I learned to speak impeccably, not to take things personally, or make assumptions and to just do my best; I found I love to paint! And I realized I am worthy of love, respect and honor. Thank you, to each of you, for sharing your gifts, your time, your energy and your love… you will forever be a part of me. Gratefully! Nancy North Carolina Please accept my deep gratitude for the miracle work you accomplished with my son by giving him back his life of freedom. Your understanding, compassion, and skill were very clear when you facilitated our family meeting, and they are evident in the breakthrough that he has made in his life. My prayers, foremost for my son, but also for our renewed father – son relationship have been answered. May God bless your wonderful work and all you work with. Ron Kelowna, British Columbia Thank you for all the love, confidence, and hope that you gave me. Throughout my stay you furnished me with a set of tools that will help me forever throughout my life journey. Au revoir et prenez bien soin de vous. Marc Shawinigan, Quebec I feel again; I feel alive again! Thank you with love to all the staff at A Home Away. You make a great team! Larry Grande Prairie, Alberta All things said and done We did some work and had some fun My mind repaired For self, I care In love I leave with thanks to everyone. Mark Prince George, British Columbia To all who shared with me at A Home Away. Your love, caring & support allowed me to grow from a totally broken lady into wholeness of body & mind. The experience of ‘Let Go & Let God’ truly came alive for me. Thanks so! Carolyn Edmonton, Alberta Thank you for believing in me and for encouraging me to change the things I thought were impossible to change. I really do appreciate all the time you spent giving me hope. You make me believe that I’m really a very special person. I will never forget that. You are not only my counsellor; you are my friend too. Love, Mary Calgary, Alberta We’ve been blessed by the love, care & nurturing you and your associates have generously & cheerfully showered upon us. The effort & care you have exhibited in putting together the program is evident. Thank you, and Bless you and all those who enter the door of this sanctuary. Charles & Lorna Vancouver, British Columbia To A Home Away and all the beautiful people who reside and work here – I want to thank you all! You have showed me that LOVE exists! Ed Toronto, Ontario I have spent a great amount of time and energy trying to understand the secrets of life. Now I see that I could never begin to solve anything when I’ve been too afraid to live. Life is a journey and I’ve been lying in a ditch, staring at a map for too long… every journey begins with a single step, and I’ve made mine. Thanks. Brad Calgary, Alberta "Thank You" does not say what my heart feels. Words pour in and yet they can’t express… Thank you for your sharing, caring, and love… for giving me the opportunity to see myself and others in a new light… a gift… Bless each of you as your work continues and I will keep you in my loving thoughts. Bonnie New Hampshire I appreciate all you have done for me. I would not be here, one year clean and sober, without the love and grace of God and the people that God put in my life to help me heal. You have been a major part of my recovery and healing process and I thank God for you. Bob Toronto, Ontario I am doing very well! I have been clean since a month before I arrived at A Home Away – which will be 2 years on May 9th. I had a beautiful daughter last year on May 15th, and she is such a joy in my life. I got pregnant about 3 months after leaving A Home Away and having that other little life growing inside me was truly an amazing experience and actually really helped with any desires I had to use – as it wasn’t just about me anymore. Having those 9 months was a blessing to me and then having my daughter without any drugs really made me aware of how strong I am and what a beautiful experience it was!! Thank you for all your help!! S.M. Calgary, Alberta Well there is a lot going on in my life. I am about to finish with my second to last semester at Louisiana State University. I am getting married to a wonderful guy who is 3 years sober. We recently started a young adults Al-Anon meeting in Baton Rouge, it is the first one in Louisiana. I am working with my first Al-Anon sponsee. I think my biggest challenges are relationships. I am working on accepting people for who they are. I can try to change something and if it does not change I do my best to accept it. It’s funny because when I tell people how much my treatment cost everyone is like whoa that’s a lot of money and I always say but it was worth every penny. My experience at A Home Away was by far the most incredible life changing experiences I have ever had. My life is radically different, I am a new person. Sometimes I can’t believe how confident and calm I am when I talk to people; I think did I just say that? Whatever yall did gave me what I needed to be a happy, healthy person. Taking it one day at a time I am a year and about 4 months sober. I hope knowing you helped one person turn their life around is well worth it! Congrats on everything yall do. Keep up the awesome work. Aimee Baton Rouge, Louisiana I have come to understand that life can be challenging for everyone. It is not only me that has a difficult day or week, it is all about how we face and overcome those challenges. Today, I am truly happy and healthy; I owe much to A Home Away for making this possible. For the most part, I make good healthy decisions and I remember even today to give thanks for all that I have. From the day I walked into A Home Away, I am still sober. I was a lost boy those days, I wanted to be healthy, I just didn’t know how. Thank you for giving me the strength, confidence, and tools to do this. B.J. Kelowna, BC I’m happy. A year coming up June 1. Tons of meetings. Back working; 2 promotions in 6 months. General Manager for Canada now; big challenges. It’s a miracle, and I love it. Still working on my marriage, don’t know what to do about it so I’m not forcing anything. 4 months without smoking John, I know you’ll like that. Still picking up all the pieces from my years of destruction. Taxes, bank relationships, I’m off of probation and legal issues are over. Can’t travel to the States, foreclosed on my place in Florida. Praying lots, my relationship with God is as real to me as my relationship with my best friend. I miss you two, I would love to come to the BBQ. We will stay in touch, and I promise to visit this summer. LOVE YOU BOTH. PS- I remember when I was there and some of us were talking about getting A Home Away tattoos. I love you, but I am VERY happy I didn’t follow through on that brainstorm! Take care. R.H. Edmonton, AB --- I have spent a great amount of time and energy trying to understand the secrets of Life. Yet how can I even begin to solve the mysteries of Life when I’ve been too afraid to live. Life is a journey and I’ve been lying in a ditch, staring at a map for too long…every journey begins with a single step, and I’ve made mine. “While it may be impossible to reach our full potential, it certainly is not an excuse to underestimate ourselves”. Matthew, February 9, 2005. Thank you does not say what my heart feels. Words pour in and yet thy can’t express… the gift of love means that you want to share with another person what every you have that is good; Thank you for sharing your caring, your love; Thank you for letting me share my love and caring. Giving me opportunity to see myself and others in a new light is a gift… Bless each of you as your work continues. I will keep you in my loving thoughts and I ask for you to remember me in yours from time to time. I hope our paths will cross again. Yours with friendship, Bonnie, April 12, 2005. Thank you for believing in me and for encouraging me to change the things I thought were impossible to change. I do really appreciate all the time you spent given me hope. You make me believe that I’m really a very special person, I will never forget that. You are not only my counselor, you are my friend too. Love, Mercia To all who shared with me at A Home Away: Your love, caring and support allowed me to grow from a totally broken lady into wholeness of body and mind. The experience of Let Go and Let God truly came alive for me. Thanks so! Carolyn K. All things said and done, We did some work, and had some fun. My mind repaired for Self, I care. In love I leave with thanks to everyone. To New Horizons, Mark G. July 14, 2005. Healing isn’t easy “No Pain no Gain”. I feel again, I feel alive again. You make a great team. “Stay Real”. You are in my thoughts. Love, Larry Thank you. From the first day up to the last one of my encounters with you, I took all the love, confidence, hope that you give me. Throughout your indication I furnish myself a set of tools that will help me in my journey forever. So be it. George B. Over the past month all of the insight, caring and sharing has made me richer person on the road to recovery. Thanks for a wonderful life experience! Bonnie, September 25, 2005. A Home Away, you walked with me through my past and my present. You gave me shelter from the storm. I thank you in every way for your sharing, caring and knowledge. Your gifts will stay with me always…Diana, September 2005. The knowledge I have gained here in the last month ha allowed me to begin my recovery in a spectacular way. I truly hope many more find the doors to this wonderful place. The tools offered here are something I would have never found on my own. All my love and thanks. Today I am sober – Today is a good day!! Tony S., October 7, 2005. The Home Away experience as been nothing less than life altering in the best and highest order. John and the team are the sunshine and moon dance in the lives of so many. Thank you so very much for all you’ve done and all that you continue to do! So be it. Love always, “Big Randy”, January 6, 2006. Thank you all for your incredible support and love. My time here has been one of the best experiences of my life and the knowledge and tools I take home with me will last forever. With love and gratitude, Lorie. Thank you for all of your support and love. I am grateful to have been guided here to find myself. I have learned a lot about myself mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. Thank you and God Bless, Jonas, January 29, 2006. Thank you very much for all that you have done for me here. It was only a short stay, but I learned and changed so much, that it will last a lifetime for. I am eternally grateful for the love and support the two of you gave me, and I love the two of you for all that you have done for me. Thanks, Mark R., February 1, 2006. Thank you for your help – I love my new life I am having so much fun. I have not been this happy in years! Karen, February 12, 2006. A Home Away, this place, wow. All I can say is Wow. This place and everyone in it helped me realize that there is a great life ahead of me. Thank you for helping me become the man I want to be. All the best, Ken T. To Home Away, this was the time in my life that was destined to happen. A Home Away came to me without looking for it, so I surrender myself. That leap of faith changed my life forever; I wouldn’t change a thing. Rod I have discovered that I need to ask for help to stay alive. I finally have love in my life which makes me strong. Thank you God for opening my heart. All the best. Love, Adam D. I feel truly blessed to have had you all in my life. Thanks for all your wisdom, patience and time. Your Energies are a life force to be reckoned with. This place will have a place in my heart forever. Whenever I look for serenity in my life, I will come back to this memory. Love Always, Leon C. Thanks for all the help with my life. The love will never be forgotten. I came to A Home Away and all I got was my life. I will see you all again. Love, Dan J. I can only say Thanks, but will pray for you, so that your faces and memories will always remain in my mind, body and soul. There is no bigger gift, thank the one you have given me. My Life!! These tears of joy I leave on this page, as I write, for you to remember and to be proud of the miracles you perform. Thank you… God Bless, Peter G. March 5, 2006. What a blessing this time has been for me! John you have persevered through some great and difficult challenges to bring your vision of residential care for others to fruition. This has been a wonderful opportunity for me to experience some of that vision, now reality. Our times together are always rich and this has been even richer! To be together with John, Ryan and yourself has fed my spirit. A time away at “Home Away” has been a time for reflection, love, and laughter. My somewhat insular though hectic life has been expanded once again. The skiing and scenery have been awesome. Thanks to Thomas and Carla for food so delectable. May God’s richest blessing and power rest and abide here always. Ross and John L. March 10-15, 2006. What can I say but thanks to you all! You gave me back my life and I thank you from the bottom of my heart. I leave the following words with you … I believe in the healing power of laughter, of love, of touch, of prayer, and today I hope you feel all the love, comfort, and strength within you and around you. Let healing happen. Be still and know that I am your God…, Be still and know…, Be still…, Be…. Pat T. Lac La Biche, AB, March 18, 2006. I have learned so much in the time I spent here. It has been a pleasure knowing the staff and everyone I went through the program with. May everyone be blessed and best wishes to all. There are now 2 sets of footprints in the sand, I’m walking side by side with my God. Thank you. Matt B. Calgary, AB, March 20, 2006. I am truly grateful for A Home Away and all the people that make it a home. I have experienced the joy of discovering and rediscovering my spirit. I feel my life is truly going to be manageable now, thanks to all of you. I will hold my time here close to my heart and soul. Corena M. Calgary, AB, April 8, 2006. I thought I knew it all and I didn’t. My whole life needed to be looked at and I am grateful. This place has opened my eyes to so many new things. I am excited to embark on my journey to reclaim my life. The time spent here was amazing; the friends I shared my time with will never be forgotten. This house has a warmth I’ve never experienced and will try to make my home feel as welcome as this one has to me. It is too bad alcoholism had to bring me to where I can learn about myself. Thanks to all of you brilliant friends, my heart will hold you close. I loved our snowboarding trips. I will never forget where I learned here. John, I envy and admire you, thank you for everything. I am ready to learn the things I know I don’t know, and all the things I don’t know that I don’t know. I never thought I’d say this, God Bless you all, Love Jarrod, April 14, 2006. Build it beautiful, there’s still time to see that it’s all there for you and me. Build it beautiful, you’re standing where you are, and you know that we still see the light in your heart. Build it beautiful; it’s all that you can do. And no one can ever build it for you. Build it beautiful, you’ve only got today, and isn’t it oh so beautiful that way. …It is beautiful. Thank you A Home Away. I have been blessed. Love and gratitude to you all. Sam A., April 21, 2006. Thank you for all your love and support. John you are truly doing a remarkable thing here. You are an inspired man, you gave me hope. Best wished to all, James H, April 25, 2006. Thank you so much! It wasn’t always easy; thanks for not giving up on me. Jordan, May 1, 2006. John, my soul saver, thank you doesn’t seem enough. Your love, and compassion have helped me to see who I truly am and I am so excited to continue on my journey of self-discovery. To “feel” is an exhilarating thing and I thank you and love you for all you’ve done for me. I can’t even put into words how much A Home Away has been the best experience of my life. I will miss you all, you all know how I feel about you…I love you and you are my sources of inspiration. Kalline, May 6, 2006. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for helping me find myself. I love being Bonnie again. A Home Away is so warm and cozy. I had no time to be lonesome as I was at my second home. I even gained a few sisters and brothers and a “Mom”. John you are awesome, I thank you. Bonnie C., Whitehorse, Yukon. Wow what a whirlwind adventure! This place is what life should always be about: Love, Honesty, Openness, Friendship and Courage. Here I’ve found all those and much more. Thank you for helping me find “me”. I will forever be grateful. John, you are a wise and wonderful man, don’t ever change! Love T.J. I will be forever grateful for my time spent here. Without your love and kindness I don’t think that my successful recovery would have been possible. I walk away from here humbled by the power of recovery. Time to start living again. Thank You! Love, Joe Wow, thanks for everything. This place is truly a miracle, a birthplace of life. I will miss all of you. This program has given me a new vision of life. Thanks, Derek H. A Home Away truly is a gift of God; it is gift that keeps on giving as each one of us leaves touching other people’s lives in our journey. For me it has given a new meaning to live life, I have rediscovered myself with feelings of who I am. I now will be the man, husband, father that I truly am. A Home Away is filled with unconditional love which I’ve felt throughout my stay. For all that I’ve become throughout my stay and my journey ahead I thank you form my heart. Thanks for being part of my recovery and who I am. June 5, 2006. You have all shown me so much patience! I only wish I had as much patience for myself! You’ve taught me so much about myself. I’m getting in touch with my feelings again. A Home Away has been an incredible experience and journey. I’m very grateful to everyone in the groups too and all the counselors. Love, Chandra, June 11, 2006. Please accept my deep gratitude for your friendship, understanding tolerance, compassion and your wisdom in dealing with my recovery. Thanks, hugs and kisses for all. I will keep A Home Away in the special place of my heart and mind. Alison, June 20, 2006. John, if you ever need a sail partner, I’m here! You inspire me that dreams do come true! You are an exceptional man! You forced me to be responsible and own my wants! Tough love, a little hard to digest, but incredibly affective! Love Jen You personify the 12th Step. I have been given hope, courage, faith and serenity and am humbly thankful. AHA provided the process and faith took me on the journey. I have learned that I am ok and because of that have been set free to shine. Thank you for the vision of recovery and the courage to dream! John, July 28, 2006. Thank you for having the courage to dream. It is enlightening and encouraging to experience a dream fulfilled. I have learned that it is ok to dream again and that I can believe that I have the power to make those dreams come true. Hope is an amazing gift, with hope comes do much else; courage, faith, serenity, happiness and commitment to name but a few. So Be It. Brant. Thank you so very much for all the friendship, love and patience you have shown me on my journey to life. I will be forever grateful for everything I have experienced in this wonderful place. Give Cocoa a hug for me and thank him for all the walks in the morning. I’ll miss him lots. May God bless you all and keep you safe. Thanks from the bottom of my heart. Marylou S. My Home Away, It feels like I’m leaving my childhood home Thank you so much everyone who loved me and supported me. I now have a second chance. A new life and a new found hope. You all helped me to see how great life can be. I just had to let go, and the strength I found is mind blowing. Life seems so beautiful to me now. I know now that I am worth it and that I can do anything. I love you all so very much, and I thank you form the bottom of my heart. I finally get to start living! Thank you, I love you, Carley, G. I can hardly find words to describe the transformation I feel I have begun since stepping through the doors here at A Home Away. Nothing remotely close to “adequate” comes to mind, as I write my last thoughts to all of you before my journey back to North Carolina. Each of you has given me so much; the ability to stop the denial and look at myself honestly; I stretched to forgive and then love myself; I came to forgive key people in my life’ I was heard; I learned to speak impeccably, not to take things personally, or make assumptions and to just do my best; I found I love to paint! And I realized I am worthy of love, respect and honor. Thank you, to each of you, for sharing your gifts, your time, your energy and your love… you will forever be a part of me. Gratefully! Nancy P., September 19, 2006. Thank you so, so very much. You have given me my life back. And for that I am so grateful. You helped me find my true authentic self, which I am so proud of. You have touched me oh so deeply. The staff is truly amazing and has been my life coaches. I have learned what I took and will continue to learn what I take. I am humbled by your love and your gifts, and will carry you all in my hearts. You have not seen the last of this guy. I know life will be so grand. This I know for the first time. A Home Away will forever be with me. Thank you so much. I love you all from the bottom of my heart, Soul and feet. Much love always, Andrew L., September 30, 2006. As I sit here and try to reflect on the past 30 days I cannot help but think back to Day 1 – I was bent, broken and self-destructive. Today I leave a beautiful young woman strong in my convictions with a happy heart. I never know that my life could be touched in such a miraculous way that would transform every dimension of it forever! My mother gave birth to me but A Home Away has given me LIFE! My heart swells with immeasurable joy, pride and love when I think of all you. Thank you, thank you, thank you for nurturing me, loving me, and giving me back “MYSELF”. For every mile between us, there’s the memories of the good times we shared and even more wonderful than all those miles of memories… is the love connecting them. Tracy O. Simple words can’t express what you have done for me. A complete “reno” on my life. I’ll keep you all in my heart – I treasure you all. If only Toronto was closer. Thanks for being my brothers and sisters, parents and most of all my friends! It’s the beginning of an unforgettable journey, and I couldn’t ask for better companions. From start to finish – classes, staff, guests, food, accommodation – I could go on – 5 Star. All my love, Anthea B. Posted on: 2007-12-09 13:39:23. Comments
Clean and sober!I appreciate all you have done for me. I would not be here, one year clean and sober, without the love and grace of God and the people that God put in my life to help me heal. You have been a major part of my recovery and healing process and I thank God for you.Bob K Toronto, Ontario Posted on: 2006-07-15 11:02:14. Comments
"Thank you""Thank You" does not say what my heart feels. Words pour in and yet they can't express... Thank you for your sharing, caring, and love... for giving me the opportunity to see myself and others in a new light... a gift... Bless each of you as your work continues and I will keep you in my loving thoughts.Bonnie H New Hampshire Posted on: 2006-07-15 11:01:40. Comments
Found a road map for lifeI have spent a great amount of time and energy trying to understand the secrets of life. Now I see that I could never begin to solve anything when I've been too afraid to live. Life is a journey and I've been lying in a ditch, staring at a map for too long... every journey begins with a single step, and I've made mine. Thanks.Brad H Calgary, Alberta Posted on: 2006-07-15 11:01:14. Comments
Blessed by loveWe've been blessed by the love, care & nurturing you and your associates have generously & cheerfully showered upon us. The effort & care you have exhibited in putting together the program is evident. Thank you, and Bless you and all those who enter the door of this sanctuary.Charles & Lorna Vancouver, British Columbia Posted on: 2006-07-15 11:00:39. Comments
AppreciationThank you for believing in me and for encouraging me to change the things I thought were impossible to change. I really do appreciate all the time you spent giving me hope. You make me believe that I'm really a very special person. I will never forget that. You are not only my counsellor; you are my friend too. Love,Mary L Calgary, Alberta Posted on: 2006-07-15 11:00:00. Comments
Thanks so!To all who shared with me at A Home Away. Your love, caring & support allowed me to grow from a totally broken lady into wholeness of body & mind. The experience of 'Let Go & Let God' truly came alive for me. Thanks so!Carolyn K Edmonton, Alberta Posted on: 2006-07-15 10:59:24. Comments
Did some work and had some fun!All things said and doneWe did some work and had some fun My mind repaired For self, I care In love I leave with thanks to everyone. Mark M Prince George, British Columbia Posted on: 2006-07-15 10:58:53. Comments
Feeling Alive Again!I feel again; I feel alive again! Thank you with love to all the staff at A Home Away. You make a great team!Larry D. Grande Prairie, Alberta Posted on: 2006-07-15 10:58:17. Comments
Thank you!Thank you for all the love, confidence, and hope that you gave me. Throughout my stay you furnished me with a set of tools that will help me forever throughout my life journey. Au revoir et prenez bien soin de vous.Marc B. Shawinigan, Quebec Posted on: 2006-07-15 10:57:25. Comments
GratitudePlease accept my deep gratitude for the miracle work you accomplished with my son by giving him back his life of freedom. Your understanding, compassion, and skill were very clear when you facilitated our family meeting, and they are evident in the breakthrough that he has made in his life. My prayers, foremost for my son, but also for our renewed father - son relationship have been answered. May God bless your wonderful work and all you work with.Ron G Kelowna, British Columbia Posted on: 2006-07-15 10:56:51. Comments | |