"My brothers fight for freedom from drugs"

20 years ago my bother told us he was a heroin addict. He had reached an all time low, and he came to us for help. He was about 20 years old at the time. We instantly went into the "we can fix this" mode, and sort all the advice and help that was there for him and us. He had help from his Dr and Spring House, now know as S2S.

During this time, he tried home detoxes, support groups, and regular trips to see his Dr and councillor at S2S . As a family we didn't have direct contact with S2S, other than the report that came back from my brother after his appointments. Occasionally my mum would attend the appointments with him, but until such time as he made real attempts to get clean, there seemed to be limited help.

He managed about 6 years clean, but then started using again and slowly we lost him completely to his addiction. S2S have limited funding, but what they did for my brother through this time, although not always what my brother felt he needed, was the best service they could provide. We maintained our support, but it got harder and harder to cope with what his addiction threw at us. This year he attempted to end his life. He had had enough. There was no more fight in him. So the low we witnessed 20 years ago, was not the lowest point, this was. He had nothing left.

Whilst in hospital he was linked with a new Dr through S2S. Hiten spoke to my brother whilst he was in hospital on dialysis. The support that he received from Hiten during this time was beyond remarkable. How he spoke to him, and helped him manage emotions, give him an idea of what help was there for him, and how by working with S2S, he had the power to change his life. This had a strong and positive affect on my brother. Hiten impressed the importance of being open and honest, and that communication with his Dr's at S2S, and his family was imperative.

Hiten helped my mum and I to understand where my brother was with his addiction, and try and see his situation a little differently, to empower my brother, and not to expect too much, otherwise we become victims again. Hiten and the staff at spring house gave my brother hope. Through my brothers hard work and determination he is now on a monthly injection which blocks the effects of his drug use, if he should use. S2S have shown him compassion and respect for what he now achieving. Hitens communication with me, has enabled me to understand exactly where my brother is with his recovery. Although on occasions my brother feels like he has taken a step back, he is reassured and re-empowered by Hiten and his supporting team to keep going.

The difference in what we first experienced at Spring House all those year ago, is so different to what we have recently experienced this year. Their approach feels different in respect of how more included the family should be, they impress strongly their expectations and communication seems a hundred times better. Because they see my brother working hard to get his life back on track, the support that he needs is there. Families are normally in the dark about the important details regarding the patients care, Hiten involved us, he even offered my mother support through their service. He had the time, or made the time to speak to my brother, when he was desperate to go and use. He was on the end of the phone, supporting him through a dark moment. Each and every time my brother speaks to Hiten, he says " he is just such a great chap' and he is.

The new prescription my brother is now on through S2S, has given him some normality to his life. The chance to see his family, see a possibility to work, and possibly involve himself in a supporting role in the future with S2S. They have allowed him to see a future. We are eternally grateful. Thank you x