*Samuel Green* sat in his cozy living room in Belmont Park, Ohio, sipping his morning coffee and browsing the news. A headline from November 24, 2022, about a regional increase in substance abuse caught his eye. His interest piqued when he read about the alarming rise in alcohol-related incidents. *Samuel* had struggled with alcohol addiction in the past but had been sober for six years.

The news story triggered *Samuel* profoundly, connecting to his personal battle with alcoholism. It reminded him of the time he had nearly lost everything - his job, his family, and his peace of mind. He realized how close he had come to relapsing multiple times and how fortunate he was to have found support when he did.

Motivated by the unsettling statistics in the article, *Samuel* decided to take action. He began following the materials from the Stepping Into Action program, seeking solace and structure in the resources provided. The program's approach to managing addiction resonated with him, and he felt a renewed sense of purpose and determination.

One day, while reading the program's testimonials, *Samuel* found a poignant quote that struck a chord: I realized that recovery isn't about healing from the past; it's about building a future you won't want to escape from. This insight became a guiding principle for *Samuel* as he navigated his path to recovery.

Experts had varying opinions about the overall increase in substance abuse. Some argued it was due to the lingering effects of the pandemic, while others believed it was related to economic downturns and increased stress levels. This controversy did little to deter *Samuel* from his mission to stay sober and help others in his community.

The journey was challenging, and *Samuel* faced many obstacles, but he remained steadfast. He often reminded himself that seeking help was the best decision he had made. Living in a small town like Belmont Park meant local resources were limited, and the availability of online options like Hofman and Hollis's program proved to be a lifeline. Through perseverance and the support he found online, *Samuel* reclaimed his life and continued to build a future filled with hope and resilience.

* Names are fictional.

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