09/23/2025
TUESDAY ALUMNI OF THE DAY: NIKKI
Nikki’s path to long-term recovery is one marked by resilience, transformation, and a deep desire to create a better life — not just for herself, but for her children and her community.
Originally from Kansas City, Missouri, Nikki experienced a lot of movement during her childhood. Later in life, she chose to settle in Jefferson City to provide her children with a better school system and more stable environment. But it wasn’t just about the location — it was about healing. She knew she needed a place where she could truly focus on recovery.
Though Nikki had already maintained several years of sobriety, one relapse almost changed everything. In a moment of pain and hopelessness, she used he**in and fell asleep in her car. She woke up to two police officers knocking on her window. That night resulted in her third DWI — and a wake-up call that would shape her future.
The next day, she saw a news story about a man who had killed someone while driving under the influence. That moment forced her to face a painful truth: while she hadn’t hurt anyone, she easily could have. That thought haunted her. Nikki knew she needed more than sobriety — she needed a structured path toward rebuilding her life. That’s when she turned to Treatment Court.
At first, she resisted. Frustrated that she had to participate in the program despite already being clean, she entered reluctantly. But what she found inside was something she hadn’t expected: compassion.
“I really thought the system had failed me,” she said. “But then I met people — a counselor, a probation officer, a judge — who treated me like a human being. Not a criminal. That changed everything.”
The environment of accountability and support helped Nikki rebuild her life. Despite challenges — including losing her driving privileges, juggling work, school, and court obligations — she persevered. Over time, she began to believe in herself the way others in the program believed in her.
One turning point came when the judge approved her request to travel, showing that trust could be earned and freedom could be restored. For Nikki, it wasn’t just about court compliance — it was about rediscovering her capability and self-worth.
Since graduating, Nikki’s life has flourished. She has regained her driver’s license and achieved multiple professional certifications, including CNA, CMA, CMT, and phlebotomy. She has worked in elderly care for nearly seven years and continues her education, taking classes part-time with the goal of becoming either a nurse or counselor.
Nikki has also embraced her love of adventure and travel. She’s visited six countries, gone skydiving (twice!), and even discovered a talent for mountain biking. But more than any experience or accomplishment, Nikki is most proud of her role as a mother. Her children — two sons and a daughter — have watched her grow through adversity, and today, they are thriving. Her daughter is a straight-A college student in her final year, and her sons are following her example of compassion and service.
She also shares her life with her partner of 14 years, someone she met in recovery, with whom she is raising what she lovingly calls their "recovery baby."
Though life today is full of blessings, Nikki stays grounded by giving back. She regularly supports individuals currently in the Treatment Court program and remains deeply connected to the recovery community. She never lets a day pass without connecting to someone in recovery — and often reminds others that they don’t have to do it alone.
Her guiding principles are simple but profound:
“This too shall pass. Feelings aren’t facts. And once you get some clean time — more will be revealed.”
For those just starting their recovery or facing setbacks, Nikki’s advice is clear: Don’t give up. You are worthy. You are capable. Celebrate every win, no matter how small and turn your absolute worst experience into your greatest strength.
As for the future, Nikki dreams of traveling the world, becoming a licensed nurse or counselor, and continuing to walk alongside others in recovery — showing them that with humility, support, and perseverance, freedom is possible.
"We're all just people trying to make it in this world." – Nikki
During Recovery Awareness Week, we honor Nikki not just for her achievements, but for her willingness to be vulnerable, her strength in the face of hardship, and her commitment to helping others rise. Her story is a reminder that healing is possible, and that the journey — no matter how hard — is always worth it.
