Interview with a Reader: Maya’s journey from Homelessness to Helpfulness
January 9, 2025(Find Sobriety): Antonio, thank you for joining us and sharing your incredible story. Can you start by telling us a little about your journey with addiction?
Antonio: Thank you for having me. Well, I started shooting dope over 30 years ago. I was in my early 20s when I first tried it, and before I knew it, it had completely consumed my life. Over the years, I went to countless treatment facilities. Some worked for a little while, but I always ended up relapsing. I thought I was a lost cause—that I’d never stay sober. But here I am, two years sober, the longest I’ve ever been clean.
(Find Sobriety): That’s such an amazing milestone. What made you decide to try something new and reach out to “Find Sobriety”?
Antonio: Honestly, it was desperation. After so many failed attempts, I felt like I was running out of options. My family had distanced themselves, and I had lost so much. A friend told me about “Find Sobriety,” and I thought, “Why not? I’ve tried everything else.” I didn’t expect much, but I figured I had nothing to lose.
(Find Sobriety): What was your experience like using “Find Sobriety”?
Antonio: It was different from anything I’d tried before. The site wasn’t just a list of generic treatment centers—it felt personalized. After answering a few questions, they matched me with a treatment program that focused heavily on the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous. The team explained that this program had a strong success rate with people who had long-term addictions like mine. It gave me a glimmer of hope.
(Find Sobriety): How was this treatment center different from the others you’ve been to?
Antonio: The biggest difference was the focus on the Big Book and the principles of Alcoholics Anonymous. I’d heard of the Big Book before but had never fully immersed myself in it. This program made it the foundation of everything we did. It wasn’t just about quitting heroin—it was about changing how I lived my life. They taught me how to work the steps, how to build a connection with a higher power, and how to lean on others for support. It was challenging, but it finally clicked for me in a way that nothing else ever had.
(Find Sobriety): That’s incredible. What do you think made this time different for you?
Antonio: I think it was a combination of the right program and the right timing. For the first time, I was ready to really listen and do the work. The Big Book gave me a blueprint for not just getting sober but staying sober. And the people in the program—both the staff and my peers—were so supportive. It was the first time I felt like I wasn’t just a number or a statistic.
(Find Sobriety): Now that you’ve been sober for two years, how has your life changed?
Antonio: It’s like I’ve been given a second chance. For the first time in decades, I feel like I’m living instead of just surviving. I’ve reconnected with my family, and I’m starting to rebuild those relationships. I also sponsor a few guys in my local AA group, which has been incredibly rewarding. Every day isn’t easy, but I’ve learned to take it one step at a time.
(Find Sobriety): What role did “Find Sobriety” play in your success?
Antonio: Without “Find Sobriety,” I wouldn’t have found this program. They listened to my story and matched me with a center that truly understood what I needed. After so many failed attempts, they gave me the chance to try something new, and that made all the difference. They didn’t just point me to help—they pointed me to the right help.
(Find Sobriety): That’s so powerful. What advice would you give to someone who feels like they’ve tried everything and is ready to give up?
Antonio: I’d tell them not to give up. I spent decades thinking I was a lost cause, but I wasn’t. If you’re willing to try one more time, there’s always hope. And don’t be afraid to ask for help. “Find Sobriety” showed me that there’s a program out there for everyone—you just have to find the one that works for you.
(Find Sobriety) Thank you for sharing your story, Antonio. It’s a testament to the fact that it’s never too late to turn things around. Is there anything else you’d like to share?
Antonio: Just a thank you to “Find Sobriety” for believing in people like me. And to anyone reading this, no matter how many times you’ve fallen, you can get back up. It’s not easy, but it’s worth it. If I can do it after 30 years, so can you.
(Find Sobriety): Thank you, Antonio. Your story is going to inspire so many people. Congratulations on your two years of sobriety, and we wish you continued success on your journey.