Thank You, Alex Jeffs-McRae, for Sharing Your Inspiring Journey
Alex Jeffs-McRae story, shared with Level Up IOP, is a powerful example of resilience, self-discovery, and transformation.
Her journey highlights the challenges of overcoming personal struggles and finding strength in recovery, ultimately becoming an example of hope for others facing similar battles.
Table of Contents
A Life Turned Upside Down
Alex’s life took a dramatic turn when she divorced her husband and discovered she was pregnant with her third child just a week later.
As a single parent raising three children, she faced numerous challenges, including postpartum depression after her youngest son’s birth.
To cope with her overwhelming reality, Alex reconnected with an old ex, finding temporary solace but eventually realizing this escape only added to her struggles.
Recognizing the need for change, she sought therapy and began her recovery journey.
Through the process, Alex discovered that recovery was not just about overcoming addiction but also about becoming the best version of herself.
Finding Confidence Through Recovery
One of Alex’s significant challenges in her early recovery was the feeling that her story wasn’t unique or traumatic enough compared to others.
This led to feelings of shame and self-doubt. However, therapy and time allowed her to see the value and importance of her experiences.
She realized that relapses, though difficult, didn’t diminish the progress she had made in her sobriety.
Instead, they became lessons that strengthened her resolve.
A turning point in Alex’s recovery came when she joined Fit to Recover (FTR), a Utah-based community center focused on fitness, nutrition, creative arts, and service.
Encouraged by her sponsor and mentors, Alex learned to believe in herself and her potential.
Their unwavering support showed her that she could grow and transform, inspiring her to extend the same support to others.
Embracing Boundaries and Self-Discovery
As Alex navigated her recovery, she recognized the importance of setting and maintaining boundaries.
This realization didn’t come quickly; it took years of trial and error.
Boundaries became a crucial part of protecting her mental health and self-esteem.
Alex also reflected on how her childhood adaptability made her relationships challenging because she struggled to define her identity.
Recovery helped her find clarity and confidence, enabling her to navigate life more authentically.
She emphasized the value of humility and grace—for herself and others—as essential tools for personal growth.
The Power of Community and Self-Love
Through FTR, Alex found a supportive community where she could thrive.
She highlighted the transformative power of connection, explaining how fitness classes, creative arts, and service opportunities at FTR brought people together in a safe and accepting environment.
“Moving the body and spirit is so important,” Alex shared.
“For the first time, I love myself as I am.” This self-love wasn’t always easy to achieve.
Her recovery journey taught her to let go of obsessive thinking and live in the present moment, using tools like journaling, meditation, and mindfulness to stay grounded.
Breaking the Cycle for Future Generations
A crucial aspect of Alex’s journey was her decision to be honest with her children about her past.
For years, she hid her struggles from them and her family, but she ultimately realized the importance of transparency.
She created an open and trusting relationship with them by sharing her experiences in a way her children could understand.
Looking Ahead
Today, Alex balances her roles as a mother, community advocate, and FTR team member.
She envisions a future where she continues to grow and help others achieve their best selves.
She believes in the power of change and sees a shift in recovery communities, particularly in Utah County.
Alex’s message is clear: everyone deserves love and acceptance.
Recovery isn’t about perfection; it’s about progress and embracing your journey.
She emphasized, “We’ve been knocking people down for too long. Let’s start lifting them up.”
A Final Word of Gratitude
Thank you, Alex, for sharing your incredible journey with Level Up IOP.
Your story of resilience, self-discovery, and hope inspires us all to believe in the possibility of change.
Your commitment to helping others and breaking cycles of pain is a testament to the strength and beauty of recovery.
We’re grateful for the light you bring to the recovery community and beyond.
