On October 07 2023, a news article about a rise in substance abuse grabbed the attention of *Jane Cooper*, a 45-year-old resident of Maxwelton, West Virginia. The report highlighted a growing issue with opioids in small, closely-knit communities, and immediately Jane was flooded with memories she had long suppressed.

For Jane, the article wasn't just statistics and distant events; it was deeply personal. Years ago, Jane's brother *Michael* had struggled with opioid addiction. Despite numerous attempts to help him, including rehab stints and family interventions, Michael had succumbed to his addiction eventually. Seeing the issue resurface in the news was like reopening an old wound. Jane found herself engulfed by a mixture of grief and helplessness.

Determined not to fall into the abyss of despair, Jane decided to take action. She recalled an online program she had stumbled upon called Stepping Into Action offered by Hofman and Hollis. Designed to help people navigate their struggles, the program offered practical steps and community support.

Jane began diving into the program, absorbing the material and applying the advice to her daily life. One quote from *Dr. Susan Hollis* resonated deeply with her: 'Recovery is not a destination; it's a journey. Each step you take changes your path.' Empowering words like these helped Jane see her journey in a new light.

When experts weighed in on the news report, their opinions varied. Dr. *Jonathan Mills* from West Virginia University supported such online recovery programs, citing their efficacy in communities with limited resources. However, Dr. *Martha Brookson* argued that face-to-face interaction was irreplaceable for effective recovery, and cautioned against an over-reliance on digital solutions.

Despite conflicting expert opinions, Jane knew that for her, it had been a good idea to reach out for help online. With no substantial resources nearby, accessing a digital program had been a crucial lifeline. She concluded that the true value lay not in the method but in the willingness to seek help and take actionable steps.

Jane's journey from reading that fateful news article to reclaiming her life was a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the transformative power of seeking help in times of need.

Nearby: Earlehurst Virginia, Alleghany Virginia