Power of Community
The Community That Saved My Life
Last week was GivingTuesday—and if your inbox looked anything like mine, you probably saw dozens of messages asking for donations.
Appeals from the humane society, the hospital where I received my liver transplant, my kids’ colleges, my alma mater, and LifeRing all poured in. Each one represented an incredible organization doing meaningful work.
Did I donate to any of them that day?
Nope.
And honestly, I felt a little bad about it.
But then I reminded myself—GivingTuesday isn’t meant to be a one-day sprint to give. It’s a reminder of the power of generosity and community. And sometimes, when the noise settles, that’s when real gratitude sinks in.
When I took a step back and thought about the past year, I realized how much these organizations have given me. The humane society brought Walter, my loyal (and slightly mischievous) puppy, into my life. The hospital gave me something even greater—a second chance at living.
And LifeRing gave me strength when I didn’t think I had any left.
There were days during recovery when I felt completely alone—like no one could possibly understand what I was going through. Then I found LifeRing meetings. There, I met people who did understand. People who had faced the same fears and doubts. They didn’t offer empty advice—they offered empathy, encouragement, and community.
That’s what changed everything.
LifeRing became a lifeline. It gave me a network of support that carried me through some of the hardest moments of my life. And now, as this year comes to a close, I can’t help but feel immense gratitude—and a desire to give back.
So, this week, I’m doing just that.
I’m donating to the organizations that have shaped my life—and LifeRing is at the top of that list.
Your donation to LifeRing, whether it’s $10, $50, or $100, helps more people find recovery support that’s compassionate, peer-led, and truly life-changing. It keeps meetings running, trains convenors, and ensures no one has to go through recovery alone.
LifeRing is now supporting 625 people every day on their recovery journeys. With your help, that number can grow even more in 2026.
If LifeRing has touched your life—or if you believe in the power
of community—please consider joining me in giving back.
Together, we can ensure that someone else finds the same community, courage, and hope that saved my life.
— Cathy from the Bay Area
Your one-time and recurring donations help people like Cathy find their way to sustained sobriety.
— Thank you! —