On July 22, 2022, a news story about a local charity event in St. Louis caught the eye of *Mary Johnson* in Hillsdale, Missouri. The charity was helping families affected by addiction, and unexpectedly, this resonated deeply with Mary.

Years prior, Mary had lost her brother to addiction. The charity's efforts highlighted by the news article triggered memories of him and the struggle their family had gone through. This emotional connection spurred Mary to seek help for her own struggles with substance use.

Mary discovered the Stepping Into Action program on the Hofman & Hollis website. She followed their materials, joining support groups and working through the steps designed to reclaim control of her life. *Tom Hawkins*, one of the program's facilitators, often said, The first step towards change is always the hardest, but it's also the most important.

Experts have mixed opinions on the efficacy of such programs. Some laud the structured approach and community support as vital for recovery. Others argue that individualized therapy might be more effective for some people. This controversy underscores the importance of finding the right fit for each person's needs.

Ultimately, Mary found great benefit in the online resources and support networks. It was challenging initially, but the guidance she received was instrumental in her recovery. This story stands as a testament to the power of seeking help and the convenience of online programs when local options are limited.

* Mary Johnson*, *Tom Hawkins* are all fictional characters depicted to illustrate the impact of news and support programs on personal recovery journeys.

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