A joyful graduate in a green academic gown poses outside with a smiling group of proud family and friends after the ceremony.

Recovery Works. Expect Miracles.

A smiling graduate in a green doctoral robe waves at the camera while surrounded by a crowd under a large graduation tent.
Years ago, Laurie Dhue and I were visiting an orphanage in Nairobi, Kenya. That’s where we met Andrew, a young boy whose life had been defined by uncertainty but also immense promise. Moved by his spirit and circumstances, we decided to bring him to New York and support his journey.

But we didn’t do it alone. Adopting Andrew was a collaboration with St. Francis Xavier in New York City—the greatest Catholic school in the world, in my opinion. Their partnership and unwavering commitment to education and compassion made all the difference. With their support, we were able to provide Andrew with a home and a real shot at a better future.

Today, Andrew isn’t just surviving—he’s thriving. He graduated from Georgetown University, completed medical school, and is now starting his residency. From an orphanage in Nairobi to becoming a doctor in America, his journey is nothing short of miraculous.

A smiling family stands indoors with two children, including a young boy in a white polo, gathered close and dressed for a celebration.

But here’s the truth: none of this could have happened without honesty and quality mental health care. I know from my own recovery that drunk, depressed people can’t help someone else climb life’s mountains. It was the work Laurie and I did on ourselves—getting sober, addressing our mental health, and staying honest—that allowed us to show up for Andrew fully and consistently.

A young boy in a navy blazer and striped tie poses in a clothing store, standing proudly in front of shelves filled with folded dress shirts.
A smiling young boy stands between a man and woman outdoors, wearing a New York Yankees shirt and boots, with an unfinished building and parked cars in the background.

This story isn’t just about adoption. It’s a testament to the power of recovery and the moral imperative we have to participate in the world. When we do the work of recovery, we’re not just saving our own lives—we’re making it possible to change someone else’s future, too.

Recovery works. Expect miracles.