Leon's story (Reach Out Recovery)

My story isn’t pretty or glamorous; It began at 15 and enslaved me until I was 33 all hopes and dreams were lost and replaced with pain and chaos for myself and those around me. Every day was a struggle. I was tired, lonely and scared and couldn’t see any light at the end of a very dark tunnel. I can still see my mother’s face when she came to see me in prison, it was one of relief knowing where I was and that I would be safe. I hope I never see that expression again. Luckily people in my service believed in me when I didn’t believe in myself.

My worker suggested treatment and if I’m honest I was now ready for change. At first I stabilised on my prescription and attended a structured day program. This enabled me to learn about addiction and how harmful it is. And then in April 2014 I went Park House and completed my Detox. I came out and felt that I still needed support so have been attending mutual aid groups ever since. It hasn’t been easy and I have had a slip but since August I have not used again.

I will be celebrating 12 months of abstinence based recovery in just a few days. I have to pinch myself sometimes to make sure it’s not a dream. Recovery isn’t always easy but it’s worth it. My family sleep at night now and so do I, it’s a beautiful thing to be free.

Leon, Reach Out Recovery, Birmingham