Hi, my name is Daniel, and Grace Centers of Hope saved my life. I never really had a problem with addiction in my life, until about 2 years ago. I eventually developed a problem with alcohol after my father passed away and my divorce became final. I never really had a lot of friends, but my addiction caused me to push away and lose 2 very important people in my life, my ex-wife and my oldest brother. I thought that the booze would help me drown my sorrows, but they only became worse…
My drinking REALLY took a toll on me, eventually landing me in a mental hospital for 3 days, then an additional 3 days in the hospital due to life-threateningly high blood pressure from the alcohol. I had to make a change NOW, or I was going to end up homeless or in a mental hospital. I was at the end of the line, I needed help before my medical problems took my life. I was exhausted…
My brother thankfully knew someone who worked at Grace Centers of Hope, and within a week or less I was heading to Michigan from Florida where I was living, to get my life back on track. My brother Andy flew down to Florida, and drove me 1200 miles to Michigan! I was scared when I walked through the front doors here, but I was determined more than ever to stay alive. I love my children & my family more than words can describe, and I needed to heal so that I could SHOW them that love. Being away from my kids who are still in Florida is hard on me, but I need to do this for ME. I have disliked myself for so long, how could I truly love my kids if I don’t even love myself?
I have had an incredible support system so far on my way to recovery, more than I ever imagined. My case manager, my mom, my brother, my teachers, and my kids have been my biggest supporters. I want to live a long, happy life with my family. GCH has made that far-off dream a reality for me! My family’s support gives me the will to keep going, and I have more HOPE in my life than I’ve had in a very, very long time.
Since becoming sober, the changes I have already seen in myself have amazed me! I have lost over 70 POUNDS, my self-esteem and confidence are coming back, and I finally can feel some serenity within me! If I could give a piece of advice to someone still struggling, it would be to turn to God and lean on your family for help. God will never ignore your cries for help, and neither should your family!