Recovery is a journey, and every step forward deserves to be celebrated. Suzy, a U.S. Navy veteran, arrived in Las Vegas on April 6, 2026, from Houston, Texas with little more than the clothes on her back to begin her recovery journey. With the support of Virtue Recovery, she entered a rehabilitation program. On June 5, she celebrated 60 days of sobriety, a significant milestone in her commitment to a healthier future.
On July 6, Suzy continued her recovery by transitioning to a long-term treatment facility in Newport Beach. Determined to build a strong foundation for lasting sobriety, she has chosen to remain in treatment for at least one year. While she looks forward to reuniting with her family, she recognizes that avoiding environments that could trigger a relapse is an important part of her healing process.
During the March 2026 Women’s Veterans Conference, the Nevada Department of Veterans Services collected $10 Walmart gift cards to support homeless women veterans in need. Those generous donations made an immediate impact. Maria Mandaleni-Orozco, NDVS Homelessness Program Coordinator, used the donated gift cards to purchase clothing and shoes for Suzy and provided hygiene kits to support her as she continues her path toward wellness.
Suzy is the mother of three sons, ages 4, 11, and 13, who remain in Houston. One of her greatest motivations is to regain shared custody and be an active, healthy presence in her sons’ lives. Her determination to recover is fueled by the hope of building a brighter future for herself and her children.
The photos show Suzy wearing a dress and tank top purchased with the donated Walmart gift cards. They serve as a reminder that even small acts of kindness can have a meaningful impact on someone’s life.
Thank you to everyone who contributed to the Women’s Veterans Conference gift card drive. Your generosity is helping veterans like Suzy find hope, healing, and a new beginning. Together, we are making a difference, one veteran at a time.
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