By Mashamba Media
news@alexreporter.co.za
Jay Van Ross said addiction is painful because it can turn a brighter future into nothing in the blink of an eye.
He asserted that addiction is universal, irrespective of race, ethnicity, or social standing, and that drug use can impact anyone.
The 34-year-old from Westbury in Johannesburg still remembers how drugs nearly ended his life, saying it is a miracle that he is still alive after so much has happened because of drugs.
He said growing up he had an amazing and supporting family, and life was so good because he started working at a very young age of 19 years at Bay Port Financial Services in Rivonia.
He believes that getting employed at such a young age was a major contributor to him becoming hooked on drugs.
In 2009, after meeting friends who introduced him to drugs, things took a wrong turn.
“Because I had money to buy alcohol and drugs, I became so famous amongst my peers with so many friends,” he explained.
He said things were happening so fast, and he ultimately became a drug mule and drug trafficker. No one trusted him at work until he lost everything, including his job. “I was so deep into addiction, and I was also embarrassed because I was fired at my work, so I couldn’t face the world, my life became a mess,” he said.
Van Ross began to deceive his family and stayed away from home most of the time, but no one knew his whereabouts. He got into the habit of sleeping on the street. “I was homeless and hopeless for almost a decade, and never to be trusted,” he added.
Van Ross decided to desperately seek help in 2022 after experiencing a lot of despair and regrets. “I realized that the path that I took is leading me to death if I do not seek help.”
He was referred to Lesedi Community Centre (LCC), an organization funded by the Gauteng Department of Social Development, where he underwent treatment through SANCA for six weeks.
“I remember my first days at the treatment Centre, I was so ashamed, discouraged and worthless and at times dragging my feet to the sessions, but those sessions ultimately had a positive impact on my life,” Van Ross said.
He said the journey to recovery hasn’t been easy because he still has to face triggers and cravings. However, he is determined to overcome every challenge that comes with it.
Van Ross further indicated that since he joined LCC his life has changed. He managed to obtain a certificate in digital entrepreneurship and registered his own business where he deals with DSTV installations and maintenance.
He said he would be grateful if the department officials could consider his services whenever they need maintenance and Dstv installations.
“The department cannot change the world, but it could change the world for one person,” he concluded.