My name is Misty Dodrill-Anderson, and this is my story.

I was born into a preacher’s home and raised by loving, Godly parents who made sure God was always part of my life. I knew Scripture and church well, but my faith was built more on rules than relationship. Growing up as a preacher’s daughter meant living in a glass house with high expectations. I tried to be perfect, believing that was what God wanted.

My childhood was safe and happy. I was the youngest of three, spoiled just enough, and school came easily. I graduated high school at 16, finished Bible college by 19, and stepped into adulthood eager for freedom. That freedom, however, came with choices I wasn’t prepared to handle.

An abusive relationship in my early twenties introduced me to trauma, fear, and deep emotional pain. I began using drugs to numb what I didn’t know how to face. Addiction quickly took hold. My twenties became a blur of partying, loss, miscarriages, and heartbreak. I lost a close friend to overdose and was told I might never have children—each loss stripping away more of my hope.

After being introduced to smoking cocaine, my addiction escalated rapidly. I lost everything—my stability, my self-worth, and myself. Then God intervened. I became pregnant with my first son, Tanner. Even in my brokenness, I begged God to protect him. I got help and delivered a healthy, drug-free baby boy—a miracle that gave me purpose again.

A few years later, after an injury, prescription opioids became my new addiction. Pills consumed my life and led me into criminal behavior. In 2011, I had a season of stability, and in 2012 I gave birth to my second son, Colton. His birth was complicated by a traumatic C-section that nearly cost me my life. Shortly after, Tanner’s father died by suicide. Overwhelmed by grief and unresolved addiction, I relapsed.

That relapse resulted in my first long prison sentence. I served four years and ten months in the Department of Corrections, while my boys were lovingly cared for by my parents. After my release, I did well for a time but entered another unhealthy relationship that led to meth addiction. I returned to prison three more times, each cycle deeper than the last.

By February 25, 2019, I was completely broken—on the run from parole and exhausted from surviving. A simple traffic stop ended my running. In prison, unable to even form my own prayers, I clung to the Serenity Prayer until I could feel God again.

Through my family, I learned about WeCare Recovery Home. I was able to join the program at WeCare when I was released on parole. There, I experienced the unconditional love of Christ in a way I never had before. Though I stumbled again and had to return to prison briefly, God was not finished with me. In 2022, He opened the door for me to return to WeCare—humbled, surrendered, and ready.

I completed the WeCare program in January 2023. I am now working for PS Salon & Spa, a company that serves retirement communities in 38 states. I have been with PS Salon & Spa for nearly three years and currently work at Wesley Manor in Frankfort, where I serve in two on-site salons. I had no idea this would become my calling, but I truly love what I do and feel that I am right where God wants me to be for this season.

I also have many opportunities to serve our community by donating free haircuts at recovery events and outreach opportunities. I am living a life I once thought was impossible. I am married to a godly man, reunited with my sons, and walking daily in recovery and faith. God truly does restore what addiction tries to destroy.

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord… “plans to give you hope and a future.”
— Jeremiah 29:11