Alumni News: Breaking the Cycle of Addiction
Kimberly Brave's Story of Recovery and Giving Back through Asana Recovery
Alumni Spotlight: Kimberly Brave
In January 2022, Kimberly Brave’s life was a whirlwind.
But this was a different type of whirlwind than a life of alcohol addiction. After 26 years of alcoholism, she had graduated from Asana Recovery, and she says her life became a “whirlwind of great opportunities.”
A member of the Osage, Chickasaw and Cherokee nations, Kimberly wanted to return home after overcoming her alcoholism and help others in her community. She was hired as a Peer Recovery Support Specialist for the Osage Nation Counseling Center and then “made a full beautiful circle back to Asana Recovery.” She’s now an admissions counselor for the Oklahoma team.
But the transformation of Kimberly’s recovery touches every aspect of her life, not simply her profession. Her relationships are more meaningful, and Kimberly treasures the fact that her family knows they can count on her. She enjoys spending time with family and friends, going to sporting events, birthday parties, dinners and cultural events.
Ongoing Commitment to Recovery
As part of Kimberly’s commitment to recovery, she continues to attend AA meetings every week and even launched a women’s meeting in her own home! She says that, “going to our Osage sweats keeps me grounded mentally and spiritually.”
Lessons from Asana Recovery
In the Asana Recovery program, Kimberly says she learned to validate her feelings and how to set boundaries. She opened up her spirit and learned “to live and let go.”
“Today, I have my own home, car, and a wonderful job. Asana gave me the foundation for living a sober life, and to believe in myself again.
Challenges to Sobriety
Despite Kimberly’s inspiring successes, her life has not been without challenges. “When there have been challenges in my sobriety, I simply pick up the phone and talk it out,” she says. “I pray and use my tools. Sometimes, as silly as it may sound, I make mocktails! Good ol’ cranberry juice in a wine glass or soda water with limes and olives. It's the little things that you do, just for today.”
Want to share your learning about sober life with other Asana Recovery alums by being featured in the Alumni Spotlight? Contact your admissions counselor or email Amber.Vaughan@asanarecovery.com.
Local Events for Asana Alumni
We’re working hard to organize local events to help Asana alums stay connected to recovery - and to each other! Check upcoming newsletters for events in your area!