For a long time, Houston felt like he was losing himself.
Addiction had taken over his life. He moved from community to community, spent time in and out of jail, and struggled to cope with trauma, anger, and substance use. Over time, drugs became more important than taking care of himself or being there for his family.
“I was always out getting high instead of taking care of my baby boy,” he said.
Life felt heavy and out of control. But things began to change when Houston realized he might lose the chance to be present in his son’s life.
The turning point came after a safety planning meeting involving Houston, his partner, and their son. It was there that he connected with Elder Greg and the Xyólheméylh team.
“In that meeting, I remember feeling hope,” Houston said. “There was no judgment. Elder Greg saw the good in me and made me feel safe.”
It was then that Houston was encouraged to join the Men’s Wellness Group. At first, he was unsure if it would help, but he decided to give it a chance. Through the group, he began learning more about himself, his trauma, and the long-term effects of addiction. He also learned something he had not felt in a long time: He felt that change was possible.
Houston made the decision to enter treatment and says one of the hardest parts was accepting that addiction had taken control of his life.
“I knew if I didn’t deal with it, it would creep back up and take me out,” he said.
Today, Houston is focused on building a different future for himself and his family. He completed treatment and was accepted into the Purpose Project at the University of the Fraser Valley, where participants learn construction skills while also working on recovery, healing, and accountability.
Life today looks much different than before.
“We do more family things now,” he said. “Going for walks, watching my son play, getting coffee together. My family can rely on me now.”
When asked what “From Darkness to Light” means to him, Houston describes addiction as being trapped in a dark tunnel.
“The farther down you go, the darker it gets,” he said. “Now I feel like I’m in the light.”
Houston hopes others who are struggling know they are not alone.
“Don’t be afraid to reach out,” he said. “Asking for help doesn’t make you weak.”