Five years ago, life seemed almost perfect. As an established businessman with eight years of sobriety under my belt, I had everything going for me. But then, arrogance took over and led me to a relapse, a devastating fall that lasted five long years.
During these years, my life unraveled at an alarming pace. I lost three businesses, went through a painful divorce, and experienced the heartbreak of strained relationships with my family and sons. The loss and pain accumulated until it culminated in an eight-day blackout, a binge that left me homeless and desperate.
It was then that I found myself at the doors of The Ark. This place, I now realize, was a turning point in my life. The Ark didn’t just give me a roof over my head; it gave me back my sense of dignity and pride. Here, I was given responsibilities that allowed me to use my skills to help others, and in doing so, I began to help myself.
One of the most touching moments in my journey at The Ark was reuniting with my youngest son this January, after being apart for a year and a half. Our bi-weekly visits have been a beacon of hope, slowly mending the bond between us. Similarly, my relationship with my parents is healing, day by day. And most importantly, I’ve learned to love myself again.
Now, seven months clean, I find myself passionate about recovery once more. The path hasn’t been easy, but the support from The Ark, my colleagues, and my renewed relationship with God have been instrumental in my journey so far.
The Ark has become more than just a shelter; it’s my second home, a place of transformation and newfound hope. I am immensely grateful for all that this ministry has done for me, offering a chance at redemption and a new beginning.
