My name is Matt. I’m in recovery from addiction. I have not used any drugs including alcohol since 2002.

Today, I have fulfilling relationships. I have a master’s degree. I have a great job. I own a home. I pay taxes. I vote. I try to help other people. Most importantly, I live in a way that I feel good about.

Half of my 20 year addiction involved daily use of IV heroin and cocaine. Addiction lead to prison and jail, overdoses, health problems, homelessness, trauma, damaged relationships, anxiety, depression and self-hate. I tried methadone multiple times but was never able to quit the other drugs, which always lead me back to heroin.

I was fortunate to live in a county that regularly funded me for long term, residential treatment with assertive connections to the recovering community. I made new friends who taught me how to cope, started working a job and paying bills legally for the first time in my life. I began building a life that I never imagined.

It wasn’t easy. Cleaning up the consequences and damage took years. Recovery continues to require intentional work and reliance on a community of support. I never thought I would want, or be able, to live a happy, productive life, free of drugs and alcohol. Now I wouldn’t want it any other way.