When I first arrived at Always Hope in the Dominican Republic, I wasn’t sure what to expect—but I quickly realized that choosing a small, individualized rehab facility was the best decision I could have made for my recovery. From day one, Roger and the counselor took the time to understand my unique story and struggles, building a tailored program that focused on what I truly needed rather than forcing me into a one-size-fits-all routine. I wasn’t just a number here. The daily structure (or lack of structure), one-on-one counseling, and the supportive community helped me uncover the root causes of my addiction and build a healthier mindset that I never thought was possible.

One of the things that drew me to Always Hope was the affordability. Compared to the private rehab centers I looked into back home in North America, the cost here was either comparable or even less—but the quality of care exceeded anything I could have imagined. Being in the Dominican Republic also meant I could focus entirely on my healing, away from the everyday distractions and stressors that used to trigger my addiction. The environment is peaceful, beautiful, and calming—an ideal setting to do the hard work of recovery while feeling supported and respected.

Another big factor that made a difference was the level of commitment it took just to get here. I had to get on a plane and make a real decision to show up for myself. Unlike some other places where people are dropped off by family or courts, the people I met had made a clear, personal choice to change. That created a powerful sense of accountability and motivation for me to succeed. I left Always Hope not only clean and sober, but stronger, clearer, and more committed than ever to living a better life.