16 Years Sober: David’s Story

David S., Narconon Graduate with family

My name is David, and I’m a 39-year-old man originally from England. In 1993, my family relocated to America due to my father’s job. Tragically, two years after settling in California, my father passed away from cancer. That devastating loss marked the beginning of a difficult chapter in my life.

Struggling with grief and searching for an escape, I began experimenting with substances. It started with alcohol and marijuana but soon escalated to cocaine and ecstasy. By the age of 14, I was drinking and smoking daily, using harder drugs on weekends. My life quickly spiraled out of control. Between the ages of 13 and 18, I was in and out of juvenile hall for robberies, drug charges, and fights. I was expelled from school for bringing drugs on campus and engaging in violent behavior. Instead of studying, I used my time at school to steal from teachers and classmates to fuel my addiction.

After a three-day drug binge, I returned home to find my lawyer and another young man waiting to take me to rehab. I had been to several rehabs before but was never truly ready to change. This time, however, was different. I had hit rock bottom. Sick, depressed, and desperate for a better life, I finally embraced the opportunity for recovery.

Narconon was exactly what I needed. From the moment I arrived at the treatment facility, I felt accepted and eager to begin my journey. Each step of the program brought new successes, and with every book and exercise, I regained pieces of myself that I thought were lost forever. For the first time in years, I felt hopeful and motivated to create a better future. I spent 7–8 months at the facility, working tirelessly to rebuild my life.

Returning to the real world was not without its challenges, but I had the tools to navigate them. Whenever I stumbled, I turned back to the Narconon teachings to get myself back on track. Today, I am proud to say I have over 16 years of sobriety. I am happily married to my beautiful wife, and we share a wonderful daughter. My family means everything to me, and I am grateful every day for their unwavering support. My mother, brother, and sister stood by me through the darkest times, and I wouldn’t be where I am without them.

“Looking back, I feel truly blessed. Narconon not only saved my life but helped me become the man I am today.”

Looking back, I feel truly blessed. Narconon not only saved my life but helped me become the man I am today. I am eternally thankful for the program and the second chance it gave me to live a meaningful, fulfilled life.

—David S., Narconon Graduate


AUTHOR

Editorial Staff