The work of a CRS is INVALUABLE!!! Without the guidance, direction, and support given by these dedicated people, the recovery journey would be significantly more difficult for those on its path. The Erie County RRH would like to tip its hat to those who serve in this capacity! We believe their dedication and stories of courage and hope can be learning blocks for others. We want to offer these stories on this page, regularly featuring a local CRS and their stories, words of encouragement, and positivity! CRS - we need your stories!!! Reach out to the RRH staff if you are interested in sharing your walk. In the meantime...check on this story on one of our own!
Stephanie Otteni
How long have you been in recovery? 4 years.
How long have you been a Certified Recovery Specialist? 2 years
What motivated you to become a Certified Recovery Specialist?
What motivated me to become a CRS was my own recovery journey. My last relapse took everything from me. I experienced homelessness, lost custody of my children, became a felon, survived six overdoses, in and out of jail and rehabilitation. Recovery gave me a life I never thought was possible, and I wanted to turn my past into a purpose.
What does 'Recovery' mean to you?
Recovery is about so much more than not picking up. It’s about healing, growing, and becoming the person I was meant to be. It’s about mending the relationships that were broken, building healthy connections, and learning how to show up for myself and the people I love.
How do you or will you use your personal lived experience to inspire hope and support others?
I use my personal lived experience by showing others that recovery is possible, no matter how far we’ve fallen. I share my story with honesty and vulnerability to help others feel less alone, and hope my journey gives others the courage to believe that change is possible.
What might you say to someone who is struggling in their recovery journey?
If someone was struggling in their recovery journey, I would suggest they go to a meeting, ask for help, stay connected. Don’t give up, no matter what.
What is something that people might not know about you or something that you would like to share?
One thing people might not know about me is that I have an 11-year-old son, and I have not seen him in 6 years because of the choices I made during active addiction. That loss continues to motivate me every day. I share this because I want others to know that even after experiencing painful losses, it is possible to find healing, purpose, and hope in recovery.