In the late 1990s, Chris found himself trapped in a cycle that felt impossible to break. Between 1999 and 2000, he cycled through several detox programs and outpatient treatments, none of which worked. Deep down, he knew why—he wasn’t ready to stop drinking. But in late 2000, while traveling, Chris reached a breaking point. Exhausted and worn down by alcohol’s grip, he contacted an outpatient team he’d once worked with. They suggested Ashley Addiction Treatment. That call, he says, changed everything.
When Chris arrived at Ashley, he was immediately struck by the peacefulness of the campus, the stillness of the grounds, the calm air that seemed to whisper that healing was possible. Throughout his stay, he found himself surrounded by other patients who were deeply engaged in their recovery journeys and by staff members who were compassionate, understanding, and supportive. For the first time, he felt he was in a place where recovery wasn’t just talked about—it was lived.
Ashley, Chris says, saved his life. Years of drinking had begun to take a toll on his health, and without seeking help, he’s certain he wouldn’t be here today. For his family, his decision to enter treatment brought an immense sense of relief. For the first time in a long while, they could rest knowing he was safe and in capable of hands.
Today, Ashley represents far more than a treatment center to Chris—it’s the place where he learned how to reclaim his life. With the help of Ashley’s counselors and programs, he discovered that he could live without alcohol and still find peace, purpose, and growth. “Ashley helped give me my life back,” he says simply.
Recovery, he reflects, unlocked his future in the most profound way. “Without addressing my drinking, I would have ended up with serious medical issues—or worse,” Chris shares. “Ashley gave me a second chance.”
That gratitude inspired him to give back. As a supporter of the Unlocking Ashley’s Future campaign, Chris wants to ensure that others have access to the same care and hope he received. He knows not everyone has the means or insurance coverage to afford treatment, and that’s why he feels this campaign is so vital. “This program helps guarantee that Ashley will be there for others who need assistance in the future,” he says.
His hope for his gift is simple but powerful—to help others get the care they need and start their own path to recovery. He believes every contribution, big or small, plays a part in saving lives. “Ashley should be available to all people who seek help, just as it was for me.”
To those considering supporting Ashley for the first time, Chris’s message is clear: “It’s a worthwhile cause. For anyone who wants help, it could save their life.”
He also hopes his story helps others understand the importance of treatment and recovery—and challenges the stigma that too often surrounds addiction. “There’s still a negative perception of recovery,” Chris explains. “People need to realize that seeking help isn’t weakness—it’s strength. Would you rather work with someone who drinks or uses every day and can’t perform at their best, or with someone who’s in recovery, showing up, doing their job, and living fully?”
For Chris, Ashley will always be more than a memory, it’s the foundation of his new life, one built on hope, healing, and the courage to begin again.
