Meet Christina: A Journey of Resilience, Recovery, and Renewal
Meet Christina: A Journey of Resilience, Recovery, and Renewal
"I never imagined I’d be a teen mom or battling addiction before I was old enough to vote. But life doesn’t always follow the path we expect."
Christina’s story begins at just 13 years old, when she first started using drugs. By her late teens, addiction had taken hold. She found herself estranged from loved ones, expelled from school, arrested for cocaine possession, and spending time in juvenile detention. “I hated who I had become,” she shares, “but I didn’t know how to be anyone else.”
Recovery didn’t happen overnight. Through outpatient treatment, a 30-day rehab stay, and court supervision, Christina began the long, difficult climb out of addiction. Every day was a battle—but then, everything changed.
“I saw two lines on a pregnancy test, and in that moment, everything shifted. My son saved me in more ways than I can explain. That day, the fog lifted. I had a reason to stay clean.”
At 19, Christina became a single mom. The challenges were immense—sleepless nights, financial strain, judgment from others—but she kept going. With the support of a few people who believed in her, she began to believe in herself. She found her footing, and with it, a calling.
Fast forward to today…
Christina is now the proud mother of a remarkable 25-year-old son who knows the meaning of love, hard work, and resilience. She’s married to a “crazy loving” husband, has a mischievous dog, and a career she’s deeply passionate about.
As the Chief Systems Officer at Youth Eastside Services (YES), Christina has spent over 20 years in behavioral health, helping others find their second chance—just like she did. “I believe in people’s ability to grow, to heal, and to rewrite their stories.”
About YES
Youth Eastside Services (YES) is the leading behavioral health provider for children, youth (birth to age 22), and their families in East King County—offering services regardless of ability to pay. Christina’s journey is a testament to the life-changing work YES does every day.
Thank you Christina for sharing your journey with Be Kind 5, we are grateful for YOU and wish you all the best as your journey continues!
With Gratitude,
Team BK5