“Marian House was a game changer!.”
Salaunah is a quiet force of resilience and transformation. A recent
Marian House I graduate who now lives in Marian House II, Salaunah
celebrates 17 months of sobriety. A devoted mother of two holiday-born
sons, Donte (12/25 Christmas) and Dayson (11/22 Thanksgiving), she
draws strength from motherhood on her healing journey from dependence
to independence.
What was life like before coming to Marian House?
My life was a living hell to be honest. I didn’t have anything or anyone when I came here. I had burned all my
bridges everywhere.
What led you to Marian House?
I was in and out of the hospital with 16 blood transfusions, I had to make some serious changes in my life. My
health was out of control because of my alcohol abuse. Coming to Marian House was the best decision I ever
made.
How would you describe Marian House to someone else?
Marian House was a game changer for me. The programs work- if you work it. My counselor from another
program suggested I come to Marian House. She said it was the best place for me to change my life. She was right.
What’s been the most helpful to you at Marian House?
The things that have helped me the most are the levels of housing and support, along with the encouragement by
everyone on the staff to take time, be still, and heal. The process moving from MHI to MHII has given me time to
grow gradually and maintain my sobriety. I have been writing during my healing process.
This poem is dedicated to my sons….” My heart skips a beat when I saw their faces… My mind was in a zone
traveling all kinds of places… Their hands were small and they cheeks were so fat…. I knew they were mine there
was no going back… They curled in my arms as I rubbed their hair… They stole my heart with only one glare… I
couldn’t believe how they stole my heart…. The love was so strong it should never part… I became a mother a
protector and a friend… And I will always love them till the very end… Words can express what they mean to me…
A dose of their love has set me free… They open up a world that I wouldn’t have known…. They smooth out the
past they set the tone…. Only time will tell if I pass the test… Then my heart and soul shall be at rest”
What are people supporting when they support Marian House?
My life! And every woman like me who needs time to heal and grow.