"11 mths clean and sober from alcohol and cocaine"

I am someone who was crippled by an 18 year addiction to alcohol and cocaine. It all started when I was 16 years of age and joined a gang. During my years as a gang member I was constantly exposed to Cocaine which in turn lead to me abusing the substance beyond my control. My alcohol and Cocaine spiralled out of control and it landed me in Prison on multiple occasions. I was knee deep in a very dark and vicious cycle and could not see a way out. I truly believed I would die as a result of the chaotic life I was tangled up in.

In June of last year I presented at Whipps Cross Hospital after nearly suffering a heart attack. After my initial check up it was agreed that I would undergo a 6 day inpatient-detox. I completed my detox on the 3rd of July and came to CGL on that day to undergo an assessment.

From that day on wards I actively attended the Service on a daily basis and participated in all groups that were available to me. CGL staff were very helpful and pointed me in the right direction during my time as a service user. After my care was complete I enrolled on a Peer Mentor course with CGL which lasted 8 weeks and subsequently I was offered a Peer Mentor placement at CGL which I am currently doing.

My dream is to become a recovery coordinator at CGL and I am dedicated to applying myself fully to reach my goal.

I have been clean and sober from alcohol and Cocaine for just over 11 months now and my aim is to reach 1 year in the coming weeks.