“Marian House is EVERYTHING!”
From Marian House graduate to Sinai Hospital’s Employee of the Month, recognizedby the President for her exemplary service, Tina celebrates 16 months of sobriety anda future full of promise. Since graduating in May 2025, she has thrived as a resident ofMarian House II and as an Environmental Specialist at Sinai Hospital. Tina’sresilience and dedication continue to inspire all who know her.
What was life like before coming to Marian House?
One morning, I woke up in a crack house 3 doors down from where I lived. I had crack on my face, strangers pushing more crack on me. Mice and roaches were running everywhere. I looked in the mirror and couldn’t recognize myself anymore. “Tina” was gone. I decided I no longer wanted to live like this.
What led you to Marian House?
I wanted to go somewhere that could truly help me change my life. I had been to Marian House several years earlier, but I wasn’t ready for help then. This time, I knew Marian House had the tools to help me become a different person—a better person. I also knew they would help me secure housing, so I wouldn’t have to return toDC.
How would you describe Marian House to someone else?
Marian House is EVERYTHING! It’s structured, comfortable, educational, peaceful and informational. You have to want to change and you have to apply yourself. It is really hard at first, but doable. And Marian House helps give you a sense of reality to prepare you for the “real world.” The program is filled with love, compassion and concern for the ladies. I have found myself genuinely caring a lot about the women I’ve met on this journey.
What’s been the most helpful to you at Marian House?
I’ve learned how to listen for the first time in my life. Before, I would get direction and fly off the handle. Now, I am really able to listen. I’ve also learned to sit still, and to let go of control. I realized while here, that I never had real social skills, and working the program has helped me learn how to get along with people.
If you could talk to your younger self (5 or 10 years ago), what would you tell them?
I would tell myself to take the time and get an understanding of something before just knocking it. I’d also tell myself to slow down and not to be afraid to try something new.
When people support Marian House, what are they supporting?
When you support Marian House, you are supporting a new life. Tina will be the resident speaker at our upcoming 5K. Please register today at marianhouse.org/5k