Hanley  

“Recovery began when I looked in the mirror and chose to become who I was meant to be.” My name is Hanley, and I am a Sun Dancer, a Southern Ute elder and a person in active recovery. 

My early life was deeply rooted in the traditions and values of my people. I was raised by my grandparents who were ranchers, spiritual leaders and cultural teachers. They instilled in me the strength and spirit of the Ute way. Despite that strong foundation, my path eventually led me away from those teachings. After moving to Denver, I fell into substance use at a young age. Those years of addiction were marked by violence, self-destruction, and deep pain; which eventually led me to jail. 

It was in that moment of stillness that I experienced a powerful spiritual awakening. A moment that made me look within and acknowledge that I needed to change. Facing a possible prison sentence, I made a vow to turn my life around. Focusing my path on my sobriety and living a life of service and faith. 

Today, I am proud to say I have been sober for 27 years. I now serve as a spiritual leader, leading sweat ceremonies, the Sun Dance, and other cultural gatherings that strengthen our people’s spirit. I also work with our Elder Services, helping care for and uplift the elders who continue to guide us. 

Beyond that, I am an advocate for suicide prevention and culturally grounded recovery, working alongside our Behavioral Health team to help others heal through tradition, language, and ceremony. These practices are not just part of our culture; they are medicine for the soul. 

All in all, I am who I am because of where I’ve been; shaped by my past, guided by my traditions and continuing to grow into the person I strive to become.