The Fence
Michelle Dodd
Listen to Michelle's podcast by clicking on any of these platforms
New versions of old habits took a toll on Michelle. As her world fell away, nothing truly changed until her perspective on who she was and the help she needed changed too. Six years sober, she describes herself as a grateful alcoholic with deeper self awareness. Find out why she says that when recovery feels like two steps forward and one step back, the best thing you can do is keep stepping into a new version of your reality.
Participant Reflections
The Fence
Michelle Dodd
Each workshop produces a creative participant reflection – a personal take away from the story they just heard – that is voluntarily shared with the wider community.
We believe that personal narratives have the power to connect individuals across socioeconomic boundaries, and that the rich creative ability of our community is the most effective tool we can wield against the stigma that prevents necessary social change.
Featured Artist
The Fence
Michelle Dodd
Bibi Brophy
Featured Student
The Fence
Michelle Dodd
James Pringle
"I am a fourth year business student at Royal Roads University here in Victoria. My field of study is Commerce, with a focus entrepreneurial management. I am drawn to business and entrepreneurship because it allows for me to be able to be form my own path going forward. My hope is to be be start a meaningful venture that benefits the world around me more so than just making a profit.
The storyteller this week was Michelle, she told a story of her life and the challenges she overcame. She originally sought treatment for a cocaine addiction, and then dealt with an alcohol addiction. At the time when she was realizing her addiction, she was diagnosed with a rare disease. This disease made it near impossible for her to walk for any amount of time. The most powerful part of the story was how everyday she left her home to touch the fence to be able show herself she could. Michelle was able to overcome her alcohol addiction, and enrolled at CDI college to work in Social Work industry. She currently works at Anawim House. She stressed the importance using every resource available to help. This story was very powerful to me, alcoholism led to the death of my grandfather and two of his brothers. I was fortunate not struggle with it myself, but the realization that it is everywhere around us. Michelle attitude throughout her struggles and her life now is what will stick with me. She maintained a positive outlook and uses every experience as a chance to grow.
I am going to bring the feelings of empathy that this experience taught towards my studies. It is imperative to have a greater understanding of those around us and struggles they may face. Too often business deals with decision-making in a non personal way. I want to remember that behind every decision a human being is affected by it. For better or for worse."