Testimonials Cont'd

I got to Leipzig October 16th. That day would not leave this memory anytime soon, as this is the day the lies ended and the truth began to grow and heal. I remember telling my mom how terrified I was, and she told me, ' I feel you should be more scared of not going and what will happen then if you go to Leipzig' that could not be closer to the truth. I felt so alone and scared, but soon after a week of classes and sharing and just thawing out emotionally I realized this was the best thing I did for myself in a loooong time. I arrived completely broken emotionally and slowly over five weeks rebuilt me.

The staff is amazingly supportive and is like a close knit family. I am soooo grateful that Ardyth and Gary had a dream and their dream came true. From the moment I got dropped off both were so very welcoming and even though not many words were shared there was an air of peace and like I was in the right place at the right time and I was safe. To feel this after days/ weeks and months of waking up and wanting to die was in itself a reward within the first few hours. Ardyth has soo many words of wisdom to share and is quietly running everything in the background, making sure the cog of the ticking clock of Leipzig keeps running. Ardyth has got that kind of personality that makes it ok to be who you are around her. The word mom comes to mind when I think about Ardyth. Gary is such a soft guy at heart and his smiles force a smile even if you are having a bad day. He shares from his heart and with truth. He makes you feel like there is hope and that with time things can and will get better. My councilors Bruce, Jon and Brandon provided a very safe environment in which to open up and share the things I needed to share, learn how to be a better person with a solid understanding of the 12 steps. This program is really based on experience and strength and hope. The clients are wonderful as well, you truly become part of a group and mini family, it was amazing to watch the changes in peers as well, to see how people grown into truly beautiful souls with hope and new wings to fly. Even the Cleaner is an amazing person willing to listen and offers words of encouragement, and puts a smile on your face. The food is amazing and home cooked; meal time is like sitting down to a big family dinner with laughter, and camaraderie.

Finally, the grounds are breath taking beautiful. I went for walks in the morning and just learned to enjoy the little things like the sunrise, peace and quiet, fresh crisp air. The building itself cries of character and history. There is enough room to feel like you have your own space if needed where you can reflect and work on your 12 steps.

Thank you so much Leipzig Serenity Retreat for giving me back to my true self, my family and friends. I have peace of mind now, I am learning to love myself, I can enjoy life day by day and do not dread waking up. As it was said many times throughout my stay; I am now living life and no longer just existing.

Janelle, SK

My name is Jason H and I am 35 years old. I completed the 5 week program this morning and flying home to my family in Kitchener, Ontario as I write this. I am in the best spiritual, mental and physical shape of my life and I know that by continuing to do the work with the program, it will only get stronger. Marrying my wife and having our two little girls was the best thing that ever happened to me. Going to Leipzig is the best journey I have ever been on. I have been given a gift and

Ardyth, Gary and Bruce -- You gave me wings. You see, I have a life now... I do not just exist.

There will be a special place in my heart for you folks and Leipzig for the rest of my journey (life)

Thank you so much for helping me find, well.....ME!

Jason H

I can not believe that 5 weeks have gone by already. It went by so quick and I am sad that leaving the place I have been calling home. But I am so excited to go home and use the tools I have been given to continue my road to recovery. Coming here, I really got the opportunity to find myself and learnt what true happiness is. I found a second family who showed me what true friends are, people who actually care and show it. I feel so lucky to have the group I was put with. It was definitely meant to be. We all bonded so quickly, and I could tell them anything, and know I was not going to get judged. When I would have a shitty day, they knew, and someone was always there to pick me back up, if not just one, all of them were there. The memories I made here I will never forget. All of the laughs we had, OMG, I laughed more in this 5 weeks than I did in my 7 years of using. I never thought I had it in me to come this far. But with the help of everybody in this place, I did make it. I never want to go through this again, losing 17lbs during detox, sliding down the stairs on my butt, and going up I had to sit down every couple steps because I was so weak. But within a few weeks I was running up and down the stairs. It feels amazing to not be controlled by a drug anymore.

Tara, 22 yrs old,Ontario

When I came to Leipzig my life was no longer my own. I was suicidal, my marriage was over, and I had not worked for quite awhile. I came to Leipzig to stay. And stay I did. Ardyth, Dan, and Gary saved my life. They gave me a home when I needed it, hugs when I felt empty, and love where there was none. When I arrived I was a 9 year old in a 50 year old body, and I had no idea how to be responsible.

Leipzig is a world of magic and hope. I came here broken and finished with life. The people here took me under their wings and showed me how to fly as a sober and mature person fit to be reintroduced into society. I cried many, many tears and had feelings that I never knew I had. The best part of the freeing of my soul was that I had guidance and love to show me how to deal with the feelings that came up. I was shown with gentleness and love how to be a grown-up and how to think on my own, and to have consideration for others. I thank my Higher Power for directing me here and I thank Ardyth, Dan and Gary for letting me stay as long as I needed. This is the place to come to, it is love, it is caring and a sense of family and as an alcoholic these are the things that were missing from my life.

Deb D, AB

Being at the Leipzig Serenity Retreat has been a lifetime experience for me. I came here very afraid and hesitant of what I would expect from this place. I was in the middle of nowhere, nowhere to hide or escape if I needed to. I realized that I had to make this work or I would sabotage the rest of my life and my familys lives. I accepted the fact that I had to change myself and my attitude for me to stay sober. I came to the conclusion that I was powerless over alcohol and my life had become unmanageable. I had finally admitted it. From there I had to ask for help from others and my Greater Power. The Greater Power was the hardest to accept for myself. Each day I would open that closed door a little further until I found what I was looking for. I found prayer, meditation, acceptance, freedom, forgiveness, sobriety, inner peace, faith and hope. By following the 12 Steps and going to A.A. Meetings, I also found the support, wisdom, happiness, courage, strength and love. I know I have changed alot, but I still have alot more to work on. I will work hard on my Journey in Recovery!

Being here and sharing with off of you is like having my own little family. We all looked forward to our morning meetings; that was worth every moment to sit and listen to each other. Now I have lots of enjoyable memories to take back home with me.

Ardyth, Dan, Jeni and Gary: I thank you with all my heart for the kindness and support you have given me in this short period of time. Your dedication will help many others that need the guidance, love and support, so they may experience the joy of becoming a Better person on the Road to Recovery! You are all an inspiration to me! You are my true friends! I will miss you ALL.

Cindy, Sk

If you are willing, Leipzig Serenity Retreat can provide you the hope to heal your suffering and the tools to become clean and sober. Consider this: 'Do I want to stop fighting?'

I knew I was powerless over alcohol and that my life had become unmanageable. This scary realization is what brought me to Leipzig Serenity Retreat. My obsession with alcohol could not be beat by any means. I have a family who loves me, I tried AA, addictions counsellors and an outpatient program. These were not enough.

The staff at Leipzig offered acceptance and complete understanding. I received excellent counsel on the 12 Step Program. Each step was broken down and studied in depth. We received classes based on moral characteristics. These sessions were significant in helping me learn about my motives in all that I do within the disease of alcoholism and in recovery. The treatment program demanded effort and work on my part. The staff at Leipzig provided constructive feedback and support in my endeavours towards a life of sobriety. Living sober takes work.

Meditation, massage and ionic cleansing were additional features at Leipzig. It is amongst these sessions that I learned to relax and find peace. Meditation techniques were taught by a professional. It is through meditation that my spiritual journey began. Prior to this experience I had not considered spirituality or ever welcomed it into my life.

Most importantly, the staff at Leipzig present a powerful example of the genuine joy of living in sobriety one day at a time. The staff is devoted to helping fellow alcoholics and addicts recover. Upon opening their door to you, they open their hearts.

Joan

We shall always stumble upon the problems in life. When this happens, we have two bridges to choose from. One is very sturdy with the downside of obstacles. The flipside is the other bridge which is very shitty with frayed ropes and cracked steps with the upside of seeming easier. As addicts and alcoholics we took the crappy bridge. Now rarely there are the very few who crossed this bridge with nothing less than scrapes and bruises. But others like us try crossing which we know is our insanity. We fell through the bridges cracks and once we hit the water we had yet another choice to sink or swim. Personally I was sinking until I realized death and pain is the only thing coming out of this decision. I tried to keep afloat, but I accepted the fact that I could not do that alone and needed help. I found a dock which did not have a ladder, all there was were two signs '12 Steps & 12 Traditions.' I learnt the steps and traditions fast and got some flippers to help swim the long swim to land. Keeping my head above water, avoiding currents that were trying to take me down. With the help of my Higher Power and support of others in this ocean of addiction.

Nolan for President!
Nolan J.

I could not have asked for a better Serenity Retreat. The grounds are beautiful and huge. The staff are amazing and very helpful. My fives weeks went by so fast and the 12 Steps and 12 Traditions helped me through it. The clients were overall friendly and I made some kind of connection with all of them. the meditation was another fantastic addition to my stay. My favourite was the journey!

Thank you Ardyth, Gary, Jeni and Dan. I appreciate all of what you have done for me!

Sam

Leipzig Serenity Retreat gave me hope and faith that I might experience a better life.

A Grateful Alcoholic, Saskatoon, SK

What can I say about a beautiful building and an even more beautiful group of people who changed my life?
Hi, I'm Rhonda and I'm an alcoholic. I have suffered from alcoholism for most of my adult life. I honestly thought there was little or no hope left for me. Then I found Leipzig Serenity Retreat.
It is almost impossible to describe a place and group of people so dedicated to the health and well being of alcoholics/addicts -- but I will try.
This is what I respect about Leipzig Serenity Retreat:
1. It is owned and run by recovering alcoholics/addicts (with many years of sobriety) who have more than book knowledge -- they have lived the life of addiction and recovery.
2. The building and grounds themselves truly are gorgeous. It was once a convent and hadn't been used in years. Purchased by Dan, Ardyth and Gary, with long hours of painstaking labout and loving hands was turned into a place of healing and love for alcoholics and addicts. It upholds its name of "serenity" retreat.
3. It is not institutionalized. You have the privacy of your own bedroom (with a comfortable bed). Rules are minimual and made for the common welfare of all. The food is awesome (thanks Joy.)
4. Most important of all, I learned about the 12 step program which not only gave me the tools to stay sober, but taught me about myself and how to begin living life on life's terms.
I entered Leipzig on August 15th, 2010. I was broken with little or no self esteem or pride left. That day changed my life in so many positive ways. As long as I use what I learned at Leipzig, I have the chance each day at a life even better than I had dreamed of.
If you have the desire and are willing to get better and need help as I did, I would sincerely recommend Leipzig Serenity Retreat as a place of recovery.

Rhonda, 2010

On my arrival a the Retreat Center, it was a dark and lonely evening. A time of fear and loneliness as I leave my vehicle {to enter} this huge and doubtful building.
Upon arrival I was greetied with so much warmth right off the bat!! It was late, so I pretty much was escorted to my quarters to reside for what was going to be my home for the next five weeks.
Being the shy person I have been all my life, I was immediately struck by so much love, guidance and co-operatiion from staff and clients.
I wasn't left in a corner to find my own ways, but always had someone to answer my questions.
There is no doubt in my mind why this place was chosen to become a place of healing. The creaking of the floors tell God that another new client is discovering the new and exciting surroundings. He/she has come to find, make or receive a brand new meaning to what life is really all about.
I will be leaving here a totally fresh and GRATEFUL person with the knowledge I've receied through the guidance and support from Dan and Artdyth. I never once have been pushed aside for my answers or concerns. I was here for a reason and they were here to fix that reason!!
The sessions I have had brought great meaning and understanding to myself. Not a day of sessions with Dan and Ardyth went by that I didn't receive a handful, or for that matter, a whole world full of the truth and understanding of ME.
It is so hard to imagine how you three started this foundation out, being users yourself. It is incredible how God knows his followers to put them in their place.
The only regret I really ever has was the room tempurature -- being a little chilly sometimes! But then again, it wasn't long before I has a warm sweat-shirt to throw on for those chilly nights when the north wind would bounce the curtains around the windows!
I think I really found my savior with the picture I had in my room. This piece of art brought me such great power and strength each morning and evening when I walked out of or into my room.
Another rewarding peice of knowledge was being involved with A.A. Without their miraculous and solid group and their rewarding inputs and the thing they share [and their willingness] to listen to our sorrows or happiess in an anonymous atmosphere. Once again, this will really give me the encouragement to become the real me that I know I can be.

Scott, SK

My name is Dewayne. My stay at Leipzig was great. The people here are very kind hearted, loving and caring people. The program was great and very understandable and I would work at my own page.
This place made me open up my eyes to a better outlook on life. When I first came here, I was very welcome and when I left, I felt very close to them. (Just like family!)
So if you get a chance to stay at Leipzig, I would grab that chance and run with it. I would do it again and again if I could. It is a great experience.
Sincerely,
Dewayne

September 30, 2010
Holy, I would have to say right up there with one of the best months I've had. My life was/has not been boring by any means. The last 15 yrs were a roller coaster and the last while a poor rollercoaster ride!
Some awesome times, some not so good -- pictures, prints and siezures dampening my view.
I confess I have a new view, but its still up to me. But this place sure made a big difference as to what I'll be doing with my spare time!
Craig, SK

Leipzig Serenity Retreat - the name implies exactly what it was for me. Serenity for my mind, body and soul. Retreat from the life I had been living for the last 40 years. Through Leipzig I have been given a new chance at life. With the lessons and examples of Dan, Ardyth, Joy and Gary, I have a new pair of eyes and ears and a new attitude to live my life with. No guarantees. Today as I finish my program I am more optonist than ever before. Life is good.

Thanks you,
Andy -- ON

Leipzig Serenity Retreat turned out to be much more than I expected. Comprehensive 12 Step work combined with relaxing daily meditation within a comfortable, friendly atmosphere made my stay a genuinely positive experience.
What I enjoyed most was the professional daily meditation classes and weekly spa treatments which included Hot Stone Massage and Ionic Foot Baths. I would recommend LSR to anyone.
Kevin, 2011

Dear Ardyth,
It was so nice talking with you this morning. I can hardly believe that another year is closing -- and what a year it has been. If someone had told me at the beginning of 2009 what kind of things I would be dealing with, I would have told them they were crazy. Anyway, I want to thank you again for all that you did for both my daughter and I last spring -- you gave us both an insight into how things like alcoholism and the undercurrents causing it can sneak up on people and ruin their lives unless they choose to break the chain.
I am very proud of my daughter and the year that she had and often think back to the darkest night in my life when we were out searching the bars in the city and wonder how on earth we got through the whole episode. I am always so thankful that you were there to help us and if there is anything we can do to help, let me know. Your service to people from across this country is more valuable than many realize.
Attached is a donation for you to use in any way necesssary.
Happy New Years to you all and may God always be with you.
S.

To the Next Occupant of this Room (This note was discovered in a desk drawer at the retreat.)
Welcome. You have come to an excellant place to begin a better life. If you are anything like I was, you may be a little nervous and not certain what to expect. You need not worry. You are among great people. If you're here it means you do want help. Take it from me, you could not ask for better people to take this journey with. Just listen to what they have to say. There is an unimaginable wealth of knowledge here. If you want to success they will help you get the tools you need to do this. Just keep an open mind. I know they helped me greatly. There were times that I felt like leavvng but I am grateful I didn't. If you ever need to talk to someone you don't have to look far for good advice or for someone to just listen to what you have to say. Soneone to tell you what you need to hear. You don't have to listen to me or believe me, time and you yourself will see you have come to the right place. Here I found a peace and serenity within myself that I forgot existed. Keep this, throw it away, pass it on. Whatever you chose, just keep in mind the things I've said because they truly helped me here. Congratulations on a new beginning.

Cory, 2010

If you are willing to trust that they know from personal and professional experience that this program works then this is the place for you. My journey throught the steps and the program here was not without hard work. I gained insight into some seemingly scary parts of myself that I had never dared go.I wasn't alone with Ardyth, Dan, Gary and Joy as my guides. My journey was emotional, fulfilling, rewarding and enlightening and absolutely changed my outlook on life. I realized I was worth the work. For me the journey continues. This was only the begining of a path to a beautiful new life of sobriety and possibility.

Susan, SK

Hi, my name is Brian. I am 51 years old. For the past 6 yrs I was in the darkest days of my addiction. I turned family away and refused to go to treatment, partly because of stubbornness and partly because of fear. I thought at my age I had seen it all and there was nothing I could learn. Boy was I wrong. Here is a quick re-cap of my surrender. I finally realized if I did not get help I would die and I truly did not want to die. I went to my loving family and told them I need help. I then told work and my UnionHall of 31 years I need proffessional help. They were unbelievably supportive of my actions. Drug and Alcohol Refferal line found me Leipzig. But before I went to Leipzig I was a pallbearer for my Uncle at his funeral, so as you can imagine I was a nervous wreck when I got to Leipzig, but when I got there the staff and clients made me feel so very welcome. I then knew right away that I would be Ok. It felt very much like a safe family environment. To sum up my 5 weeks at Leipzig here are some of my thoughts. I came to Leipzig a broken and shattered man, a man with no direction, no values, no goals, and no dreams. But with the loving and caring guidance of Dan, Ardyth and Gary I truly feel I'm leaving a man with direction, values, goals and dreams. If one word could describe my experience at Leipzig it would be HOPE!!! With life there is hope and with hope there is life.To all the staff - Keep up the life saving work. Words cannot describe my gratitude and thanks.

Brian, Sylvan Lake, Ab.

When I came to this place, I didn't lose my house, job or all my friends, but what I did lose was myself. My rock bottom was "being sick and tired of being sick and tired". What Dan, Ardyth and Gary and other clients have done for me is more than I could ever have imagined. Coming here, I had no clue what the twelve Step Program was. As I was taken through the steps, my life started changing for the good. Now that I am done, I have learned the importance of the 12 Steps to recovery. It is not something you do just in treatment, but through life which makes you a good person -- as long as you are "Honest, Open Minded, and Willing. That is H.O.W. it works!

Cory B. Niagara Falls, Ontario

I have to thank Ardyth, Dan and Gary for having me at Leipzig Serenity Retreat. "Serenity" it sure is! Peaceful and Calm. The 12 Steps have given me the tools to Recovery. Recovery depends on how we use those tools one day at a time. The 12 Steps have given us two things in life: 1. A NEW ROAD -- that my/our Higher Power has mapped out for us to follow through prayer and meditation daily. 2. A NEW LIFE -- The 12 Steps brings us a new way of life, they give us benefitts -- no longer practicing our addiction to the self-esteem that comes from ego. Knowing that we are taking care of ourselves and growing spiritually with and through a higher power. The 12 Step program is like breathing. In order to live, we have to breath in and out; we have to inhale and exhale. Recovery is the same way; we inhale the message of the 12 Steps and then exhale to make room for the next breath. We all enjoy the fresh air of Recovery that many of us have enjoyed. Thanks Artyth, Dan and Gary. All the Best.

Gary V, Ontario

Serenity Retreat, a more apt name you will be hard pressed to find. From the first moment I stepped through the doors I felt surounded by peace, warmth and comfort. It was here that I met the people who were to be my guides, mentors and yes, my friends....Dan,Ardyth, Gary, and Joy. It was here that I began an incredible journey that will last me the rest of my life. It has been a journey of discovery. I have found within myself a person who I am proud of sharing with my family and friends. I have learned to smile and to laugh, to share, to shed tears. I am so grateful to have people in my life who cared enough to bring me to Serenity Retreat. There is a poem on the wall that promises that every one of us will find our own special spot here... I found mine. Michael (Mike) M

As with any kind of illness, an initial prerequisite to achieving treatment for addiction demands sincere empathy. Even trained workers disqualify themselves if they have inate prejudice towards addiction and the alcoholic or addict. A study was done why an institutional program was not working. The program apparently included all the ingredients necessary to a successful operation. It was learned that it was the antipathy of the personnel to the patients that was at fault. Other studies have indicated that more important than medication, the place, kind of source of treatment, is the attitude, empathy and technique of those concerned with the addict/alcoholic that make the difference. Even some recovered addicts/alcoholics, who may present as unsympathetic towards alcoholism or addiction and even intolerant of using or drinking, are useless as care givers for those seeking treatment. I have worked in the "addictions field" for 29 years, and have had the priviledge of being twice now at the Leipzig Retreat. God, in His benevolent wisdom has provided three angelic caregivers to extend their love for others. I have met them, and it is indeed inspiring to know that those seeking help at Leipzig will receive warmth and understanding. They will get a golden opportunity to reaffirm their own dignity, in a safe, supportive and loving atmosphere.

Ron Harris

I am writing this letter with an honest and open heart. Before I came to Leipzig I was sick physically and mentally. I had been struggling with alcohol for years. It never got better, just worse and worse. I tried to stop on my own, but couldn't. I was sick and tired of being sick and tired. I hurt my family, friends and everyone around me. Finding Leipzig and doing the 12 Step program is the best thing that has ever happened to me. I can manage my life now. I am healthy physically and mentally. I am happy and sober. Thanks to Leipzig and my Higher Power. I will always be thankful for Dan, Gary and Ardyth's hospitality. It was a home away from home and still is.

Miriam, S

For the past ten years of my life I have struggled with this disease of addiction. Until I met Dan & Ardyth & Gary out at Leipzig I thought I was a hopeless case. They taught me different. They taught me how to deal with my feelings, my resentments and basically how to deal with life on life’s terms. They taught me how to be honest with others and most of all myself.. I wouldn't have been able to do this alone, Leipzig saved my life. I now have healthy relationships with my family that I never had before and healthy relationships with people in the program. The greatest thing about this place is that whenever I feel the need to get away I’m always welcome here! This is like my home, my family and I will be forever grateful to the people I have met through this.

Krista, Biggar, SK

I have been trapped in the cycle of addiction for many years. I have been to other treatment centers, and tried to get into recovery several times. This all changed when I came to Leipzig Serenity Retreat, where I was able to put the pieces of my life back together, the pieces that have been missing for such a long time. Leipzig taught me another way to live my life, in recovery. If you have an open mind and are truly willing to trust in this Program, you will be amazed at the power of this Program. The people here treat you like family, and really do care about you and your sobriety. They understand. They know what it takes to stay clean and sober, and how to achieve this goal everyday. There is something spiritual and healing about this building, the people , and the program, that is difficult to put into words. Rather, it needs to be experienced. I am here to tell you, this Program has changed my life. I have been able to slow down and find happiness in my life. I have the tools to stay clean and sober every day, so I can enjoy all life has to offer.

Mark M. Alberta

I have seldom felt so sincerely thankful and blessed that my spouse found Leipzig Serenity Retreat. Our life together has come from darkness to light, from chaos to peace, from desperation and despair to hope for our future. He was open and willing to everything this intensive treatment program had to offer, and it has changed our life spiritually, mentally and emotionally forever. This is not your typical Treatment Center, with your typical counselors. This is a place which needs to be experienced to understand the power of the program. It is very apparent these people are sincerely dedicated to the healing process for recovering alcoholics and addicts. Beyond their loving and caring nature, they have extensive knowledge and personal experience, and a strong desire to share that with others. If your spouse went to Leipzig Serenity Retreat, they would not be treated as a "client", they would be treated as a person who wants and needs help managing their disease.

Theresa

My stay at Leipzig Serenity Retreat - It was very comfortable, I enjoyed my time. I learnt how the program works. The owners make you feel welcome. I am going to take what I learned and use it.

Kim, Sudbury, Ontario

My stay at Leipzig saved my life. You see I came here on my own, broken, and in a glimmer of hope that this last attempt would be the answer. I'm no newcomer to trying to sober up which made it real hard to think I could make it at all. The staff and the 12 Step studying class gave me hope. The hugs got me through the sad times. The 12 Steps gave me the tools to start living "life on life's terms" and the cook kept my belly full (yummy). Oh yeah I even got the opportunity to help out with physical projects which was very healing for me.
Unconditional love - feeding my heart One on one teaching - feeding my mind Nutrition - feeding my belly Physical - feeding my soul
Oh yah - thanks to the black lab "Buddy" our walks around there - the sunsets and overall breathtaking view!

Victoria - Winnipeg, Mb.

I have known Ardyth and Dan for about 2 years now. I'm 42 years old and have been fighting the disease of addiction for about 6 years. I first came to Leipzig Sask. in September of 2008 desperate for some help. I only stayed for 3 1/2 weeks and left against the advice early. I returned back in February and am now staying for a longer term. I was welcomed back and now enjoy the privilege of helping restore the building in exchange for a healthy environment. Also I'm learning how to live sober and happy. I am forever grateful.

Peter - Leipzig, Sk.

As I look back on my time at Leipzig many thoughts come to mind. First and foremost, how I felt so welcomed and at home within the first couple of hours. Everybody from the staff and other clients have allowed me into their lives with stories from the past, to their goals in recovery. Which made me feel very comfortable sharing my stories. It is kinda like we all became such close friends that we had known forever. The staff and people I have met here will always hold a very special place in my heart. Without them I would not be leaving Leipzig a sober, accepting, and giving man ready to take on the future with a new outlook on life and a happiness I have not felt in years. Everyone here is exceptional at what they do and I recommend this place to anyone that is ready to start their journey in recovery and sobriety. Thank you and I will never forget this place as long as I live.

John D. Ontario

Hi - My name is Joe. My life became unmanageable and I was headed down a path of self destruction. If I kept going the way I was going I stood to lose not only my life, but my family and everything dear to me. I needed to find a place quick and I couldn't wait 6 more weeks to get into a treatment center. With the help from my wife and my creator, I was guided out to Leipzig Serenity Retreat. It is an 8 hr drive from my home, so I took a chance and jumped in the truck with my wife and off we went. I didn't know where we were going and little did I know it was in the middle of nowhere. When we got to Leipzig I had a lot of fear of staying, because it was an old convent. There was a man here who made me feel at ease and told me to give it a chance. So I did and I'm happy to say it was the best desicion I ever made in my life. I have a relationship with my creator that I never had before. The people here are like family, and they only want the best for you. I came here a boy inside a man's body and I left here a man. Thank you Leipzig Serenity Retreat. Thank you Great Spirit.

Joe, Alberta

Thank you for Everything! There is no amount of thanks I can say, for the acceptance I have felt on my visit here. You have all helped me in ways that are undescribable. As Joe would say, I came here a boy, and I'm leaving here a man. Thank you for being here for me when I needed someone to talk to. Thank you for helping me in my time of need. My time here has brought me much needed happiness in my life. I feel I have become a better man, and ready for whatever life throws my way. I am happy, and privileged to have such wonderful people like you in my life, and you all have a special place in my heart. You'll Always Be In My Thoughts!

Doug, Alberta

As I complete my treatment at Leipzig I reflect on the last 5 weeks. Arriving afraid, ashamed, burdened with guilt and remorse. Feeling like nobody could possibly understand how beaten down I was feeling. Here they told me they understood, bought kleenex by the case and asked me to trust that they knew what they were doing and what would work best for me. How on earth could these seemingly average looking people with no phd's in psychiatry or credentials behind their names possibly help someone as "unique & complicated" as me. Well... turned out I wasn't that unique and their program was a simple one and had worked well for many "complicated" people, themselves included. If you are willing to trust that they know from personal and professional experience that this program works then this is the place for you. My journey throught the steps and the program here was not without hard work. I gained insight into some seemingly scary parts of myself that I had never dared go. I wasn't alone with Ardyth, Dan, Gary and Joy.

Susan K