STAND Inc 2025

From Struggles to Strength: Susan Maxwell’s Inspiring Journey of Recovery and Empowerment

I n the heart of STAND, Inc., a beacon of hope for individuals on the path to recovery, stands Susan Maxwell—an embodiment of resilience, courage, and the transformative power of support. With a wealth of lived experience, Susan, now a dedicated Program Manager, has turned her own tumultuous journey into a guiding light for others navigating the challenges of addiction. A Journey Back to Hope Susan’s story begins in a childhood beset by struggles. At just 14, she found herself drawn into a world of substance use, racing down a path that led her to her first treatment center by age 15. For the next 15 years, Susan battled her addiction through a series of treatment attempts, which often felt like hurdles rather than stepping stones on her road to recovery. Her perseverance shone through as she earned her GED and served four years in the military. Yet, amidst the discipline and structure of military life, Susan continued to struggle with daily drinking—a pattern that fed her addiction instead of breaking it. When she returned home, the familiar environment, coupled with friends who still used substances, proved to be an insurmountable challenge. A Turning Point In 1995, seeking a fresh start and a break from her past, Susan moved to Georgia. However, the transition was far from easy. Living in abandoned houses and facing the harsh realities of homelessness, she ultimately caught a charge that marked a crucial turning point in her life. It was during this time that she entered New Beginnings, but the struggles continued as she grappled with understanding the need for change in her circumstances. It was a friend who introduced her to the 12-step program and eventually encouraged her to explore STAND, Inc. This intervention sparked a profound shift in Susan’s life. She discovered a supportive community that not only acknowledged her past but also embraced the potential of her future.

Susan Maxwell STAND INC Program Manager “I earned from Atlanta Metropolitan College (Associate 2009) and from Georgia State University (bachelor's 2012) both majoring in Criminal Justice after coming into recovery.”

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