stsJoin the CEDC, HSHS St. Joseph’s Hospital, and the Chippewa County Take a Stand Against Meth committee for a special LIVE BEAR Discussions Podcast episode featuring Nycki Wallsch.

Here’s what she says:

“I was born and raised in Bloomer, WI. I was always the kid who felt I never fit in, no matter the group I hung around with in school. I started drinking and using other substances to feel like I belonged, and to cope with past traumas. I spent a long time running from my past, but no matter how hard I tried, I couldn’t pull myself out of those circumstances. I spent two decades self-medicating with alcohol and substances. After multiple jail visits and ultimately losing my children into the child protective care system, I finally was offered treatment court as an alternative to revocation. I graduated from Chippewa County Treatment Court in 2017, was successfully reunited with my two children in 2018, and have been given full guardianship of my nephew.

I strongly believe in, and advocate for community-based services specific to each individual’s needs, which is why I work as an organizer with the FREE campaign and EXPO (EX-incarcerated People Organizing). I also volunteer with different community-based organizations. I sit on the board of Chippewa County CJCC and was recently elected on the State of Wisconsin’s Council of Mental Health and Criminal Justice committee. I have a great understanding of the hardships individuals encounter when dealing with alcohol misuse/addiction, re-entry into the community, and dealing with past trauma.

Although life has not always given me the road I wanted, it led to me where I am now, and I am extremely grateful. Every hardship I have encountered has helped to mold me into the person I am today. I love spending time with my kids and raising my pets. Other activities I have found that help me when I am struggling with my mental health are doing anything outdoors, being near water, swimming, walking, hiking, being in nature, and several other physical activities. I also like arts and crafts.”

Please click the link on the right to join the Zoom meeting. This will also be streamed on our Facebook page.