"My experience in rehabilitation"

I began my journey 3 months prior to my admission to the detox unit with calls to a staff member expressing my will to enter into long term rehabilitation. I found this staff member to be most helpful in, she told me how long it could take to enter the program and to call fortnightly. I entered into a detox unit in Toronto before I came to Lyndon.

My time after I arrived at detox, I feel gave me the strength to move to rehabilitation. Staff at detox allowed for a nice transition to rehabilitation with reassurance and support in all facets. After 5 days I transferred to Wattle Grove where the clients and staff made me feel comfortable, allowing me to settle in.

On arrival for the first week, I had to feel my way along just to what was ahead. My only criticism of the transfer was the orientation during the first few days. I had to mostly learn how the house worked from the clients - as to jobs, rules and activities. An orientation of rules and workings would eliminate so many grey areas. A strict commitment should be made to the program only staff can provide. I believe an isolated period from family in the first 2 weeks would allow clients to decide if the program will work for them, as I have seen 12 discharges only, 4 seeing through to mastery.

The staff at Wattle Grove come with the highest recommendation, in particular my case worker. But not only her, the staff work as a team and all have helped me in some way. In hindsight it should be made clear to all clients that their own efforts will be supported 100% by staff and not expected it all to be done for them. The unit manager has developed a great team and should be shown that respect.

I know this is a situation in the house where delegation can be very helpful as it does require more than one person. I have been successful in this program with that guidance and support and thank the manager and staff wholeheartedly.