Suzanne Schultes: Building Hope from Heartache for Sober Widows
It is in between the dash where we grow.
When Suzanne Schultes lost her husband Bobby in September 2020, she faced a crossroads that could have threatened her 11 years of sobriety. Instead of succumbing to despair, Suzanne chose to channel her grief into something profoundly positive. In this episode of 'Recovery Survey', Suzanne shares her inspiring journey with host Brett Morris, detailing how she created a supportive community for sober widows through Zoom meetings and social media. Suzanne’s story is one of resilience and compassion.
As a Certified Alcohol and Substance Abuse Counselor (CASAC-T) and Grief Facilitator, she combines her professional skills with her personal experiences to help others navigate the difficult path of grief while maintaining sobriety. She started a Zoom meeting specifically for widows in recovery, providing a safe space where participants can openly share their feelings without judgment. This initiative has blossomed into a thriving online community, extending its reach through platforms like Instagram and TikTok.
The episode delves into the importance of creating environments where people feel understood and supported. Suzanne emphasizes that these meetings allow for the expression of even the most outlandish thoughts, knowing they will be met with empathy. This is crucial, especially during a time when in-person support is limited due to the pandemic. Suzanne also discusses how exercise and building social networks have been vital components of her recovery journey.
She and her husband found solace and community at the gym, and she continues to incorporate fitness into her life as a way to stay connected and healthy. For anyone navigating the dual challenges of grief and sobriety, Suzanne’s story offers a beacon of hope. Her efforts to create a supportive community for sober widows show that even in the darkest times, there is potential for growth and connection.