From Addiction to Recovery: Josh's Journey

A Story of Resilience and New Beginnings

Meth addiction is notoriously difficult to overcome, with less than 2% of individuals successfully breaking free from its grip. However, Josh's story is one of those rare, inspiring journeys of recovery and transformation.

Josh reflects on his past with a sense of determination and newfound hope. "Since I was sixteen years old, I was hooked on my first try," he recalls. The allure of meth took hold of him early on, leading to years of dependency. Yet, today, Josh stands facing a new life filled with goals and aspirations that were once overshadowed by his addiction.

Looking back, Josh remembers the toll addiction took on his family. "Watching my parents work two jobs, holidays were the time when my dad had to be home, and he was coming down. It was difficult to be around," he says. The holidays, which should have been joyous, were often marred by the struggles of his addiction. But now, Josh and his Dad have a new relationship. "Today, we are healing," he affirms with a sense of relief.

Josh's sober life is still new to him, but it is already bringing profound changes. "After twenty-two years of chasing a high, I wake up with goals," he shares. The clarity and purpose that come with sobriety have given him a renewed sense of direction. "I go to work every morning. I want something to show my life. I do not want to continue the path of addiction. I do not want that. I want a new life."

One of the cornerstones of Josh's recovery has been his involvement with the Weld County Food Bank. "Today, I am enjoying my sober life. I am constantly busy doing good things. I am engaged in work at the Weld County Food Bank. What a wonderful place to work. Good people around me," he says. His journey with the food bank began as part of his community service hours. "I put in my application for the food bank, and after putting in my time for community service working hours at the food bank, they gave me a chance. Today, six months later, I am working full-time in a position with the title of warehouse inventory compliance specialist. I get to do different things, lots of opportunities."

In addition to his work, Josh is actively involved in the Jobs of Hope Relapse Prevention group, which meets on Monday nights. "I am active in the Jobs of Hope Relapse Prevention Group on Monday nights. I am not able to attend the Tuesday night classes at Jobs of Hope because I have a court order to attend the Creative Counseling to get my license back," he explains. His schedule is packed, but he embraces the busyness. "Three Sundays a month, I have a part-time job that keeps me busy. I have one day off, Saturday, a day for myself. I love my chill on Saturday. It's my day to rest. And I attend the Saturday morning fellowship at the [Rick Hartman] House of Hope. I enjoy being around men who want to be there, working on their challenges. My favorite person at Jobs of Hope is everyone, if I must choose one person, it would be the peer counselor Jason. I enjoy

listening to Cisco on Saturday fellowship, and Dan is fun. I am in a good place."

Through his participation in various programs and classes, Josh has come to an important realization. "After working with the program and attending the classes, I have realized that I need to take it slow. Work on myself," he acknowledges. The journey to recovery is ongoing, and Josh understands the importance of self-care and patience.

Josh's story is one of perseverance and transformation. It serves as a powerful reminder that even in the face of daunting odds, recovery is possible. With each new day, Josh continues to build a life filled with purpose, hope, and the promise of a brighter future.