Kathleen's Story: Addressing stigma and isolation associated with addiction

Kathleen Donaldson came to be involved in peer support volunteer services following the death of her husband. Kathleen describes being a peer supporter in her community, and how her work addresses the stigma and isolation associated with addiction that she experienced. Kathleen outlines the breadth of highly person-centred support through peer work, and personal rewards related to belonging, identity, recognition, purpose, improved quality of life and being a valued member of the community. Kathleen provides these services on a voluntary basis.