Jocelan’s Story

November 1, 2021

Hi, my name is Jocelan and I’m 42 years old. I grew up in an alcoholic home, with my mom, dad and my older sister. My dad was the drinker. My early life consisted of many types of abuse, some in the home and outside the home. I struggled in school and was diagnosed with ADHD. It was fairly new, and treatment was even newer, and I slipped through the cracks. I had no idea why I was so lost in school and was ashamed to admit it. I found it easier to mask my self-hatred and low self-worth by acting out through skipping class and fighting. Eventually, I was kicked out of high school and was not welcome at any public school.

My coping mechanisms extended beyond my behaviour at school. I had also struggled with bulimia and anorexia and spent time in the hospital for it. I continued to search for solutions outside myself: shopping, overworking, and relationships. By the time I was 23, I was married and had three children. I was struggling—I felt so alone and unsupported, and the trauma of my childhood had followed me. I started using drugs at the age of 25, and by the time I was 26, I had lost everything because of my addiction: my marriage, my kids, my home. I went in and out of recovery, but with each relapse I sunk further and further. I eventually ended up with criminal charges for crimes I had committed to support my habit. I was lucky enough to have been accepted into Drug Court. Instead of serving your sentence in jail, Drug Court allows you to serve your sentence in the community through programs like detoxification, addiction and recovery programs, therapy, etc.

This is how I found myself walking through the doors of Adeara. I spent 16 months there, learning how to manage my emotions, deal with triggers, and received intense trauma therapy. Adeara is also where I found Christ. My life changed dramatically in so many ways. Through Him, I was able to restore a relationship with my children and with my family. Adeara didn’t only save my life: it changed it fully. I have since graduated from Drug Court and had the support of Adeara right to the end. I have been able to take and pass my GED. Through my GED, I received diagnoses of other conditions that affect my learning. This has made it easier for me as I continue to pursue my education at Vanguard to obtain my degree in theology, pastoral care and counseling. I have also had the wonderful opportunity to become a part of the Adeara staff team, where I can give back to Adeara and the community. I can honestly say that today life is good, and I look forward to what tomorrow brings. I know that I am never alone, and through Christ who strengthens me, I can do all things.

Jocelan
Previous Adeara Resident