My name is Alex and I’m 28 years old. I started using drugs 12 years ago because of family problems.

I was suffering from major depression, feeling sad and discouraged. Psychologists and family members tried to help, but were unable to. That’s when I tried marijuana. Whenever I smoked it, there was a certain relief, but once the effect was over, I felt even worse than before. So I would need to use the drug again. Before I knew it, I was completely addicted. I used many types of drugs, such as marijuana, cocaine, heroin, crack, synthetic drugs.

I had everything: family, dreams, an education, yet I lost everything to addiction. I lost my family’s trust, dropped out of school and left my own house because of the many problems I caused.

Everything started when I was 16; I started stealing to maintain my addiction and everyday my only goal was to get enough money to buy drugs. At the age of 19, I was arrested, but once I was released, I continued using drugs and this time things got even worse.

I had a son with my girlfriend, who was also an addict, and our lives spiraled out of control. I was diagnosed with diabetes, insomnia, fear and stomach problems. When she gave birth to my son, we thought about quitting drugs and having a normal life, but we weren’t able to do that. I tried several methods to quit using drugs. I decreased my dose intakes, went to different rehab clinics, etc., but nothing worked.

The first time I heard about the Universal Church, I did not believe they could help me. But my friend, who is a member of the Church, never gave up on me and always invited me to go with him. Two months ago, I couldn’t stand to continue living like that, and 2 pastors came to visit my home and pray for me. Since that day, I have not used any more drugs. When I first went to Church, I weighed 130 lbs. and now I weigh 160 lbs.

I have been healed of the drug addiction and feel extremely well. I no longer have the desire to use drugs. I’m fighting for my new life and the faith that saved me. Now, I attend Church meetings and the Youth Group in Israel. I am learning to keep my faith and confirming that there is only one way out of addiction: intelligent faith in the Living God.

Alex

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