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What does it take to rebuild your life after addiction leads to criminal charges and prison time? Christine Palladino's remarkable journey from gambling addiction to purpose offers a raw, unflinching look at transformation through accountability.

When investigators confronted Christine about missing funds from the fire department where she volunteered as treasurer, she felt an unexpected twinge of relief. After years of hiding her gambling addiction, the weight of secrecy was crushing her. That pivotal moment sparked her decision to take complete accountability – a choice that would transform her life.

Christine shares the painful stages of her journey with unforgettable honesty – from making that first call to a gambling helpline, attending daily GA meetings, and repairing relationships, particularly with her mother. Her description of prison life, including a harrowing COVID quarantine experience, reveals how she developed profound gratitude for things most take for granted. "I'm so optimistic now," Christine explains. "It humbled me beyond belief. There are things I'm still reminded of how much I took for granted."

Most compelling is how Christine channeled her darkest experiences into purpose. Today, as a certified International Gambling Recovery Specialist, she educates others about gambling risks and supports others struggling with addiction. Her story illustrates how connection truly is the opposite of addiction and how lived experience becomes our most powerful tool for helping others.

Whether you're battling addiction yourself or supporting someone who is, Christine's journey offers hope that even our most painful chapters can become our greatest source of purpose. Her story reminds us that transformation begins with one courageous decision to face reality and take that first step toward recovery.

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From Rock Bottom to Rock Solid.

We all have them...every single day, we wake up, we have the chance to make new choices.

We have the power to make our own daily, "Breakfast of Choices"

Resources and ways to connect:

Facebook: Jo Summers
Instagram: @Summersjol
Facebook Support: Chance For Change Women’s circle

Website: Breakfastofchoices.com

Urbanedencmty.com (Oklahoma Addiction and Recovery Resources) Treatment, Sober Living, Meetings. Shout out to the founder, of this phenomenal website... Kristy Da Rosa!

National suicide prevention and crisis, hotline number 988

National domestic violence hotline:
800–799–7233

National hotline for substance abuse, and addiction:
844–289–0879

National mental health hotline:
866–903–3787

National child health and child abuse hotline:
800–422-4453 (1.800.4.A.CHILD)

CoDa.org
12. Step recovery program for codependency.

National Gambling Hotline 800-522-4700