Hello, my name is Robert. At 43, I've experienced a lot in my life, with its fair share of ups and downs. Raised by a caring grandfather, I felt a persistent void throughout my youth. To numb this feeling, I turned to drugs, starting as young as 13. Marijuana, alcohol, and cocaine became my regular companions.
Things took a turn in 2007 when I received a DUI. By 2009, I was prescribed Percocet by a doctor, a decision that marked the beginning of a steeper descent into addiction. When my doctor shifted his practice in 2011, I was introduced to heroin, which quickly consumed my life.
In 2013, recognizing the severity of my situation, I reached out to the Delaware helpline for addiction assistance. Their recommendation? Adult Teen Challenge. Without hesitation, I contacted Shenandoah Valley Teen Challenge. My sister supported my decision and took me to the facility that year. My time there proved transformative. Within the first month, I felt a divine intervention, and my life started to shift. The program was so impactful that I stayed on as an intern for 14 months.
Post Adult Teen Challenge, life seemed brighter. I found love at church, marrying my wonderful wife and together, we were blessed with four children. But life, as it often does, threw me another curveball. In 2018, I faced a relapse. Recognizing the danger of my situation, I promptly returned to Adult Teen Challenge. There, I underwent a six-month restoration program and once again served as an intern for an additional six months. This institution and faith proved to be my anchors once again.
2020 presented its own set of challenges. The pandemic forced me back home to care for my family. I took up a job with a construction company, but a work accident resulted in a series of surgeries, causing me to lose half of my left foot. Throughout these trials, my faith stood strong, reminding me that I was being watched over.
Today, I am an active member of my church's tech and worship teams, always seeking opportunities to serve God. The verse that resonates deeply with me is Matthew 23:37, which says, “‘You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind.’” Every morning, I'm reminded of this profound love, gratitude, and the blessings in my life. Not only do I have a supportive wife, but I've also gained full custody of my 10-year-old son. The doors that God has opened for me are countless, and I'm ever grateful for the role that Adult Teen Challenge has played in my redemption story
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