As Patient Advocate Manager for the Mount Sinai Health System’s Opioid Treatment Program, Brenda Davis helps people overcome addiction. Brenda also finds it incredibly gratifying when these patients go on to help others by becoming certified peer advocates through a New York City program that trains them to help people in recovery.
That was the case with Charles Young, who entered Mount Sinai’s Opioid Treatment Program in October 2015, and now— three years later—is working toward his certification as a peer advocate himself. “The work I have been doing with Ms. Davis and the Mount Sinai team has expanded my vision of what recovery can be,” says Charles.
But when he first met Brenda, Charles was estranged from his family, using a variety of drugs, and sleeping in Tompkins Square Park in the East Village. Brenda’s first priority was stabilizing his health and getting him support. Then, she connected him with peers who were doing well in treatment. Overwhelmed by the positive stories he heard, Charles blossomed.
“Bringing purpose to people who have lost their way is what peer recovery is all about,” says Brenda. “Helping people recognize and embrace recovery helps them stand strong together.”
Brenda Davis and Charles Young