Triumph in Tennessee: Local Woman’s Victory Over Addiction and Academic Success

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – A recent University of Tennessee graduate is using her personal story to encourage others. Liz Gooch admitted to being in a dark place for a decade, suffering from drug addiction.

She thanks the KARM Serenity residential program for women for assisting her. Liz stated that throughout her addiction, she lost custody of her kid, and her mother died of a heroin overdose. “There was a lot of trauma in such a short period, a lot of loss, pain, and hurt,” Gooch explained. “You would think that that would have had me stop using, especially when I saw my mom lose her life, but actually I started getting worse and started using more and just wanted the pain to stop.”

She stated that she was informed she could either spend time in jail or get therapy. She chose to seek help and eventually found her way to Serenity, an 18-month residential treatment program offered by KARM.

“Serenity Ministries is a ministry that serves women who are fleeing domestic violence, addiction, and homelessness. “We also serve single women with children for the same reason,” said Cynthia Russell, Serenity Ministries’ vice president.

Liz stated that at Serenity, she discovered a lot about herself and the source of her trauma.

“I came into Serenity broken and with no trust in my family,” Gooch said. “It’s hardly a partnership. They were like, ‘Liz, you’ve done this. I mean, you’ve done it several times. So, when anything is different, what will be different this time, right? I mean, we’ve heard you say it. So having my family here, we’ve been through a lot, and they’ll be able to see me go over the stage.”

She stated that she was also offered the option of starting a job or attending education. She decided to attend UT. Liz graduated from the University of Tennessee’s School of Social Work on Friday. She said she works as a care coordinator at Serenity.

“When they say they restore lives in Jesus’ name, that’s definitely what they do here,” Gooch added.

She added her family was even in attendance for her graduation, which she had never expected. Her grandmother stated that she had never been prouder of Liz.

“I believe she has been so blessed by her opportunity here at Serenity that she wants to share it with others who may need a little encouragement,” said Liz’s grandma, Barbara Pelot. Liz gives advice for people who are struggling with something in their lives.

“The pit is so deep, and you can’t get out,” Gooch remarked. “I want to notify that individual that I know where you are. But there is a way out.