A patient who received care at Claymont Comprehensive Treatment Center (CTC) in Claymont, Delaware, reflects on the highs and lows of his recovery journey, which took a transformative turn when he met Claymont’s caring and compassionate team. They listened to his story and provided the practical advice, support and resources he needed to embrace a sober lifestyle. Special thanks to Jenna Mahalik, Tiffany Millar and Darren Brown. Thank you, Claymont CTC team, for your deep empathy and care for those you serve.
“I have been in treatment since I was 5. Drugs since 11. Born in Kensington 1957. I have been on heroin 26 years. Had a family. Home. Nice life. In 2000, I fell hard. 6 months of rehab in Florida. Since 2000, I had a few years clean, but never got it. I learned how to get clean but not stay clean.
I came to Claymont from Crozier. What a difference. The counselors allowed me time to talk every day. Jenna [Mahalik] helped me save my life; she was my counselor my second time around. Tiffany [Millar] was my first. Darren [Brown] was there also; he is a great teacher. I heard this time that if I want to stay clean, I have to change everything.
I got books and got help to understand things. The counselors never said, ‘Go away, come back tomorrow.’ I give my sober life to Claymont. I did the work. The counselors loved me and listened. I am blessed to be here.”