who is julianne?

Hi, I'm Julianne Griffin, The Founder of Swift Steps! Growing up amidst alcoholism, drug addiction, mental health challenges, and domestic abuse, I bore the scars of those traumas. And even as I tried to distance myself from the legacy of my upbringing, addiction found me in numerous forms: from food to shopping, from relationships to substances. 

At an early age, I assumed the role of caregiver for my younger brother and sister, navigating the complexities of life with resilience and determination as my parents battled addiction. This experience instilled in me a strong sense of responsibility and an unwavering commitment to support those around me. 

My journey to recovery wasn't linear, I struggled with relapses, leaned on maintenance medications, outpatient programs, and used various harm reduction tools. I was convinced that formal treatment wasn't for me but what I truly needed was genuine human connection. It was only when I surrounded myself with compassionate individuals who truly understood my struggles that I was able to shed the weight of shame and grow beyond my challenges. 

If you're looking for a recovery community, I hope you'll  stick around and see what the Swift Steps mission is all about!