Valentines Winner

By dianahellismedia • February 18, 2024
Annual Valentine's Day Mattress Winner! We delivered Bailey's brand-new Immunity Queen Size Mattress Set valued at $2,999. She was the lucky winner of our annual Valentine's Day giveaway. "I'm very grateful that they can do this yearly," said Bailey. "It gives people a chance to do something for themselves. Like most parents, I put things on the back-burner if it doesn't involve my kids." Winning the mattress was just what she needed. The past few years have been challenging. "In late 2022, I left a really bad relationship. The majority of my belongings were tossed out or destroyed." Due to a work-related injury, Bailey's been out of work for over a year. After three surgeries, the doctors are unsure if she can return to her position as a medical assistant. "When I saw 16 Cents' Facebook post about the contest, I thought it could be an amazing opportunity to get a new bed," said Bailey. "I needed one but didn't have the funds for it. All our extra money goes straight to the kids." Bailey has been sleeping on an old mattress purchased several years ago and is looking forward to sleeping on the new one. "It was hard to believe we won until 16 Cents messaged me," said Bailey. "I'm looking forward to having a new mattress, let alone a whole new set. It's really special. I feel like this is going to be our year."

As an airman in the Air Force, Mikel Therien traveled the world, spent time in the Pentagon and the White House. Now, you’ll find him managing our Ash Street Clearance Store. There’s no place he’d rather be.


“I love it. When I come to work, I feel safe, and I’m around people in sobriety. They are my second family,” said Mikel.


Mikel is celebrating two years of sobriety this week. While serving in the military, Mikel was injured and turned to prescription drugs to ease the pain. He quickly became addicted to opiates- something he never imagined could happen to him.


“The pills were doctor prescribed because I had a prescription; I didn’t realize the effect they had on my life,” said Mikel.


Mikel hid his drug addiction from his then-wife, young kids, and extended family for several years. When he couldn’t get pills anymore, he turned to heroin. In 2019, as Mikel laid in a jail cell for various outstanding warrants, he cried and prayed for the strength to get sober finally.


“I was fortunate. The court offered me one more chance,” said Mikel.


That second chance came in the form of a prison alternative drug treatment program. With his newfound faith and endless support from loved ones, he slowly recovered and landed a new job at 16 Cents, 3 Shoes, & 5 Socks .


“It’s by far the hardest thing I’ve ever done. I’ve always been a hard worker. I just had to find myself again,” said Mikel.


As the drugs faded away, Mikel’s drive for success took a front-row seat. In a short period, Mikel went from working in our warehouse to a sales associate and now, store manager. Mikel now also has joint custody with his sweet girls.


“I like spoiling them. Daddy can give them a good life,” said Mikel.


Mikel hopes his journey to sobriety will inspire others who have lost their way.


“There is hope; it is possible. You have to have it in your heart and put in the hard work,” said Mikel.


We’re so proud of you, Mikel! Thank you for sharing your story and being an inspiration to others. We are honored to have you on our team.