From addiction to high school graduation: Thunder Bay, Ont., woman shares story of recovery

Crystal Pickering’s journey through addiction and trauma has been a tumultuous one, filled with chaos and pain. Growing up in Sault Ste. Marie, Ont., she turned to drugs as a teenager to cope with the physical and sexual abuse she experienced. The anger she felt from her childhood festered for years, leading her down a path of self-destruction.

But despite the darkness that consumed her, Pickering has managed to turn her life around in a remarkable way. At the age of 41, she is set to graduate from the Lakehead Adult Education Centre in Thunder Bay, finally achieving her high school diploma.

Her journey to recovery began after the birth of her first child, Jason, when she was just 17. Struggling with the loss of another child due to a rare birth defect, she turned to crack cocaine as a means of escape. Years of addiction followed, with Pickering in and out of detox facilities, battling with her inner demons.

It wasn’t until a compassionate police officer intervened and brought her to a mental health ward that Pickering’s life took a turn for the better. Sent to Thunder Bay’s Crossroads Centre for treatment, she found a new sense of purpose and belonging in the recovery community.

One of the key figures in Pickering’s journey was her roommate, Dayna Elizabeth Karle, who refused to give up on her. Karle’s tragic death from an accidental overdose in 2021 served as a catalyst for Pickering to dedicate herself to helping others in recovery.

With the support of Karle’s mother, Carolyn, Pickering has become an integral part of Team DEK, offering peer support to those in need. She has found solace in using her lived experience to connect with clients at Crossroads, helping them navigate their own paths to recovery.

Returning to school was a daunting challenge for Pickering, who had struggled with education in her youth. However, the Lakehead Adult Education Centre provided her with a safe and supportive environment to pursue her high school diploma. With the guidance of teachers like Kara Babcock, Pickering rediscovered her confidence and embraced the opportunity to continue her education.

As she prepares to graduate, Pickering’s son, Jason, reflects on his mother’s inspiring journey of overcoming addiction and reclaiming her life. He sees her as a role model for resilience and strength, embodying the power of transformation and growth.

Pickering’s graduation is not just a personal achievement but a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. Her words of wisdom resonate with those who may be struggling, offering hope and encouragement to anyone facing their own battles with addiction and trauma.

In a world filled with darkness, Crystal Pickering’s story shines as a beacon of hope, proving that there is always a way forward, no matter how insurmountable the obstacles may seem. Her journey from chaos to recovery is a testament to the power of perseverance, compassion, and the unwavering belief in the possibility of a better tomorrow.