CCS was there when really needed

I have lived in Caledon for 29 years and I did not know about all the great resources available to me.

I have had a drug problem for the last five years. Cocaine and marijuana have ruined my life. While I was using, I did not even realize that I was not only hurting myself but my family and friends as well. At Christmas time, I was charged with domestic assault and spent a night in jail.

It was the best worst day of my life. It was also the longest night of my life, but it really opened my eyes to all of my drug problems. When I got out the next day, I decided it was time to change my ways and I wanted to get the help I needed. I went to Caledon Community Services and found out about all the services they had to offer in one place during my time of need. They have truly changed my life with a onestop shop.

I started with crisis counselling, where they referred me to a drug addiction counsellor. I had someone to talk with about all of my problems and they also helped me out financially. I started working out at the Caledon Wellness Centre every day to help make me feel better about myself. When I ran out of funds, they offered me a 12- day pass so that I could continue on the right track. I have currently been going to the gym every day for two hours. I have lost 20 pounds and love myself more than I can ever remember. I feel that going to the gym and eating healthier has given me a more positive outlook on life.

I currently attend Holy Family Church twice each week and believe I found my faith, which I had lost for some time. Church really helps me through these hard times.

The separation from my three children and my soul mate of 15 years has been very painful. I have not used cocaine, marijuana or alcohol since Dec. 26, 2007 nor have I had any urge whatsoever to use it. I cannot because I need my family back and I want to take care of them the way I should have in the first place. I cannot change the past, I can only change the present.

I really want to thank everyone at Caledon Community Services for all of their help and support through these trying times. I want to thank my family and friends for their support and forgiveness. I also want to apologize to everyone whom I have hurt, especially my wife and children and my wife's family. I really hope that they can find it in their hearts to forgive me. I know I have made some terrible mistakes in my life but I plan to make up all the wrong by doing well by others, and if I change one person's life, then all of this was worth the effort.
Chris Grogan,
Bolton