I Am the Other Side of Addiction

The book was written to share my life story and journey from childhood to adulthood of abuse, abandonment, trauma, and loss. I offer detailed advice along with tools and techniques to overcome one's past and how to become resilient and begin to heal. The title "I AM THE OTHER SIDE OF ADDICTION" BREAKING FAMILY CHAINS will be followed by two additional books "I AM THE OTHER SIDE OF ADDICTION" LIVING THROUGH ABUSIVE RELATIONSHIPS and "I AM THE OTHER SIDE OF ADDICTION" A MOTHERS CHOICES. The book contains an interactive workbook after each chapter to help the reader relate and acknowledge within themselves their past and begin their own healing process.

I decided to write an autobiography that begins at the age of one. I share with the reader graphic details of selected incidents that took place in my life in hopes to invite the reader to understand how to process their past, how to prepare themselves for the future, and how to embrace and love themselves through it all. I have implemented QR-Codes throughout the book that are small short video recordings of myself speaking on certain topics that are discussed in the book. I wanted to create a connection with the reader and develop trust. Though the book at times shares some really hard facts and events that took place in my life, it also brings to light how I have overcome the past and how I have dedicated my life to serve others who suffer from the deadly disease of addiction and mental health. The series of books are the foundation to a company that I I founded called Virtual Hope due to the need that I recognized over the past 20 years professionally and the past 53 years personally. The lack of resources and support for family members who have loved ones suffering from substance abuse disorder and mental health is astonishing. I discovered during my writing process, I wanted to do more than just tell my story. I wanted to use my story to help others in the same or similar situation. Having parents and many family members who suffered from the disease I knew all too well the impact it can have on those who are left to pick up the pieces that addiction leaves behind. I want to help families walk through their journey and season of difficult times and celebrate the times of success and recovery. I found the my true purpose and why I decided to finally write and share my life journey. The three series of books will be utilized on the Virtual Hope platform that will offer families, friends, and loved ones a safe place to heal as a community.

Jodi is a graduate of the University of Phoenix and Community College of Allegheny County. She earned degrees in psychology, human service management and is a certified life and recovery coach. With nearly twenty years of experience in direct patient care and operational management within the behavioral healthcare field, Jodi's true passion lies in the treatment and understanding of addiction. She strives to have those hard conversations and faces each day as it comes. She knew early in her career that she would devote her life and professional skills to helping those battling this potentially deadly disease. Jodi's life journey — along with her educational training and devoted time and care for families and their loved ones in both inpatient and outpatient settings — affords her to be recognized as an expert in the field. Jodi has partnered with BBC News to compile and complete two documentaries on how the disease of addiction has impacted families and taken the lives of loved ones in the United States. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G41tth_vd4E She has served as senior executive director of operations, national integration of administration, learning transformation expert, and physician service manager in the mental health and substance abuse industry. Jodi is founder/CEO of Virtual Hope, an organization that unites families, friends, loved ones, and professionals by providing daily support and education on how to best understand and make healthy choices while battling this deadly disease. Virtual Hope Corporation 5036 Dr. Phillips Blvd. Orlando, FL 32819 Insert Q-R Code titles virtual hope www.virtualhope.org You will often hear me say, "I will not apologize for my passion and true love for others. Rather, I will forever honor what God has given me through it all. Let's walk this out together!" Jodi Russo-Bailey