A mother talks about the greatest gift she ever received

“Since Nick was around five years old, I spent the first five years of his battle with emotional and behavioral problems trying to find someone, anyone, who would actually listen and help him,” said Hope, Nick’s mother.

She tried everything she knew to help him. He had to be hospitalized many times, was given numerous medications, received home-based therapy, and even attended an intensive day program. But she still felt that nothing was making a difference. “That is,” Hope said,” until he came to Pressley Ridge.”

When Nick was admitted to the Pressley Ridge residential treatment program at age 10, Hope felt heartsick. “I was a skeptic by that time, but still knew I had to try whatever I could,” she said. She was also worried that he might hurt himself, since he didn’t seem to understand the consequences of his actions.” Nothing seemed to get through to him, and it broke my heart,” she added. At the same time, she was distraught with herself, because as much as she loves Nick,” It was hard to like my own child.” She admits that this feeling is the most difficult feeling a parent may ever experience.

After Nick became a resident at Pressley Ridge, a team of staff began working intensively with him and his family. Hope explained that “Coach Jen was a life-saver for a rapidly drowning family! She was very open about what was going on inside Nick’s head. This enabled us to work through many problems, some of which I had not even been aware of.”

Coach Joe also played an important role in teaching Nick that he is more than his behavior, but “a person who deserves to be cared for, respected, and loved.” Hope said it was a good feeling to know that Joe thought Nick was a great kid.

She felt that Coach Avery was another critical element in her son’s transformation.” He taught Nick about self-respect,” she explained.

What Hope remembers with gratitude is that “the staff always worked with me, and knew that my son’s welfare and happiness were my main goal.”

Since he left the program, Nick is much happier now and smiles and laughs more often than he has for years. And most importantly, “I enjoy being with my son again,” said Hope.

“I don’t think I can ever thank Pressley Ridge enough for giving me back my son! It is the greatest gift that anyone could have ever given me. Hats off to staff on a job well done!!!”