My name is Jon and I have been free of drugs and alcohol since June 8, 2014. 

I was always a shy, uncomfortable child who wanted to be liked and accepted. I often felt alienated from all the “normal,” kids. I had my first drink at 16 and liked it immensely, but I didn’t become a habitual drug and alcohol user until after high school. After I moved out of my parents’ house I began smoking weed on a daily basis almost immediately. It became my primary motivator and the only thing I wanted to do.

Over the next few years I had affairs with psychedelics, stimulants, sedatives, and eventually opioids. The first time I tried heroin I was 21 years old. Soon after I became a regular intravenous addict. I was unable to hold even the simplest of jobs and relationships in my life began to dissolve. I  became entangled with the legal system due to stealing to maintain my habit. I entered substance abuse treatment several times in my 20s, but never wanted to be sober. 

After years of loneliness and misery, I found a way out. I am an active member of a strong recovery community which has become the basis of my support network. My life has become more than I ever imagined it could be. I have a job that is meaningful and fulfilling. I have repaired damaged relationships and built many, wonderful new ones. Today I am able to actually fulfill the obligations to people in my life. If I say I’m going to be somewhere, I will be there. It truly feels as if anything is possible and I credit it all to my recovery.