Frank shares his story
I came into THOMAS with very little hope. It started with alcohol, which led to other things, I lost my licence and my job. I gave up then in the end. My family and friends talked me into coming here, but I was very ignorant about treatment programmes to begin with. I found out that I’d have to come in and stay in a rehabilitation group
and I wasn’t prepared for that. But I have no choice I have to give it a go.
During the 12 weeks my daughter wrote a letter unbeknown to me, explaining her side of what she went through when I was in the madness. I didn’t want to read the letter. I refused. But the staff took me into a room and said you’re not doing the letter for yourself, you’re doing it for your daughter and the lads out there.
I don’t remember much about the letter. I cried most of the way through. I remember the main points but I was very upset. It hit me, it opened my eyes. I thought this is real life. Now I’m getting to like it at THOMAS and I’ve not looked back since. I’m glad to be here. I’m glad to be part of the THOMAS group and everything they’ve done for me; I owe them a lot. I think it’s about time now to give back.
Merril is now in our second stage house.
I’ve been living in Salford, trying to hold a job down, I’m a floor layer by trade, trying to be a good father to my daughter and step daughter and a partner to my girlfriend.
But I just couldn’t stop using drugs, the walls were closing in, bills weren’t getting paid. And it got to the stage that my daughter wouldn’t see me. She wouldn’t talk to me. I was in a mess. I called my sponsor who was aware of the THOMAS project and the good work they do there. He called me when I was at work, he said I’ve got an assessment for you. He rang me and I said I’ll drop my tools, I’ll go now.
I was assessed by THOMAS and fortunately I was in within 24 hours. If I hadn’t got in I don’t know what would have happened to me. Since I’ve come in, certain things are expected of me, attend meetings, do workshops, speak with and bond with the other lads. We’re all in the same boat, and it’s about helping each other, fighting addiction. Doing the 12 Steps, Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous.
It’s really working for me and I can feel a real change. I’ve been here 5 weeks and I’m confident that I can move forwards with the help of THOMAS and the good work they do here. It’s saved my life. It’s a fantastic place and I love it to bits.”