A new season of Vanderpump Rules is upon us, and while we’re sure to see plenty of new beefs and breakups among the staff at SUR, at least one cast member has been enjoying a steady upswing in recent months.

After enduring a painful divorce from Mike Shay, Scheana Marie moved on and found love again with actor Robert Valletta.

While that situation may not have gone entirely as planned, those who know her best say they’ve never seen Scheana happier.

But while Scheana is understandably eager to leave the past in the past, she’s also admirably candid in discussing the ways in which she’s been changed and strengthened by the struggles that brought her to where she is today:

1. The Newcomer

When we first met Scheana back in Season 1, she was the new girl at SUR. As Vanderpump fans know, that’s a difficult position to be in, but Scheana met the challenge with grace and courage.

2. Scheana and Shay

At the time, Scheana was in what appeared to be a stable relationship with Mike Shay, and both parties openly discussed their desire to get married and start a family.

3. A Memorable Wedding

The couple tied the knot in a swanky ceremony befitting Scheana’s unique sense of style. Unfortunately, not long after they exchanged vows, life for the Shays took a sharp downturn.

4. A Secret Addiction

Shortly after the wedding, it was revealed that Mike was struggling with an addiction to prescription painkillers. He had reportedly gone to great lengths to hide his substance abuse from Scheana.

5. Toughing It Out

Scheana stood by her husband’s side as he battled his personal demons, but as Mike withdrew deeper into himself, kept her at a distance, and began disappearing for days at a time, she began to feel she was left with no choice but to bring the marriage to an end.

6. An Example to Others

Now, Scheana is opening up about the painful decision to call it quits, and the challenges of being married to an addict. As opioid abuse continues to destroy lives in record numbers, Scheana’s is sadly a situation that millions can relate to.

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Source: celebweddings