Mother's Day

Erin Johansen, CEO of Hope Cooperative, says, “Over the years, Steven has embraced the opportunities that were presented to him. He participated in therapy, groups, and worked closely with his medical team. He also utilized techniques he learned such as daily meditation for symptom management.”

“The combination of the medication, therapy and learning about my mental health issues were all part of a comprehensive treatment to alleviate my symptoms,” Steven says. “My brain is now, by all measures, back in balance.”

Today Steven is a member of the Hope Cooperative Board of Directors. “He brings his lived expertise to each board meeting to ensure we are meeting the needs of our clients,” Johansen says. “His willingness to share his story and his expertise is brave of him, and invaluable to continuous improvement as we care for our clients.”

Steven’s life came together as treatment progressed. “I’ve reconnected with my family and my adult children who are ages 16 and 27. I just took a vacation with my father and brother. That was great,” he says.

“I finally found a decent car and now have a nice apartment, and with my own dog to care for. This might not sound like much to some, but to me it means the world.”

While considered medically disabled because of his mental issues, Steven hopes to find a position to volunteer as a coach for youth sports leagues. He has lost more than 100 pounds, is physically stronger than ever and takes long daily walks.

“As my physical health improves so does my brain. It’s all connected.” he says.

His advice to others? “The most important thing is getting with the right psychiatrists and getting on the correct medication. That forms a foundation for recovery. Then therapy helps you set goals for your recovery. No one should be destroying their lives with drugs and alcohol. Sobriety is truly a gift. There are people ready to help. You just have to say yes.”

As a Hope Cooperative board member, Steven suggests people consider a donation to his organization on Sacramento’s Big Day of Giving May 4.

For information, visit hopecoop.org and bigdayofgiving.org.

Readers ask how they can contribute to Inside Sacramento. Here’s how. Visit insidesacramento.com and sign up for our weekly newsletter. Also consider a paid membership starting at $19.95 a year. Every little bit helps us serve our community.

Cecily Hastings can be reached at publisher@insidepublications.com. Previous columns can be found and shared at InsideSacramento.com. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram: @insidesacramento. n

Spring is here and the weather is getting nicer, so it’s time for spring cleaning.

Though you spend time year-round doing typical housekeeping tasks, this is a good time to go the extra mile to deep-clean and refresh those neglected spots in your home.

Not sure where to begin with your 2023 spring cleaning? Here are ve tasks that should be on your radar.

Wash windows and doors. Each door and window needs a good washing inside and out. Be sure to rinse the screens and wipe out the window casings.

Clean out kitchen spaces. Clean your dishwasher and oven, then wash and reorganize the interior of your fridge. If it’s been a while since you’ve cleaned your pantry, tackle that next and throw out any old or expired food products.

Dust the vents and ceiling fans. Give your vents and ceiling fans a good wipe-down. Also replace your air lters if you haven’t in a bit. Typically, they should be replaced every three months.

Clean or vacuum furniture and upholstery.Furniture can get quite dirty over time. Pull up couch cushions to vacuum under them, then vacuum the cushions too. You can also carefully wipe down leather furniture and vacuum your mattress.

Tidy up outside. Take some time to work on curb appeal, too. Tidy up the deck or patio, pick up any stray kids’ or dog toys, and spray down your outside furniture. You may also want to refresh your landscaping while you’re at it. Are you getting your home ready to sell? Get in touch for expert help today.

At the height of the pandemic, 32 Ugandan and 31 U.S. women communicated by Zoom, phone and text to create “This Bridge Called Woman,” an anthology of nonfiction stories and profiles of interesting women, as well as stunning visual art.

The new cross-cultural anthology is now available thanks to Women’s Wisdom Art, a Sacramento-based