Teri Barnes

My name is Teri Barnes. I am originally from LaFayette, Georgia, (Linwood actually), and I currently reside in Chattanooga, Tennessee. My interests... the things that make me happy is GETTING to serve. I am honored with the privilege of taking Alcoholics Anonymous meetings into the TN state prison system as well as a women’s re-entry program here in Chattanooga. I also am blessed to be a part of Freedom Spring Ministry. I have been in recovery since January 25th, 2023, after being in active addiction for 24 years. The defining moment for me wasn't just being sentenced to the DRC program, it was a mass overdose that took three of my friends. That's when I made the decision that I didn't want to die and started paying attention. Unified in Recovery has been a big part of my early recovery. I have worked in treatment for over 2 and a half years and in harm reduction for almost a year. Filling these roles help keep me on the right path. Connection and participation in 12-step programs keep me grounded and helps me to grow. I am a sponsor that has a sponsor. If I were asked to give a suggestion on how to stay on the path in recovery it would be to keep being honest with yourself, don't keep secrets because they really do keep you sick. TALK about what's bothering you, don't give up, and don't look back, you're not going that way.