A New Start in Life: RUDY'S JOURNEY

At 17, when most kids his age were thinking about cars and proms, alcohol took control of Rudy’s life. He managed to live with his addiction for 34 years...

... until his mother passed away in 2005. “That put me over the edge,” he says softly. “She was not just my mom but my best friend.” From that point on, Rudy’s drinking increased.

Knowing he was in trouble, he tried various detox and rehabilitation programs, but nothing seemed to work.

Finally last summer, Rudy, a Native American, was referred to the Springfield Rescue Mission by a fellow member of the Narragansett Tribe. Rudy is still grateful for that referral today! “I was at the point of wanting to try anything that would help. The way I was going, I could have ended up dead.” Since coming here, he says, “This is the longest I’ve been sober for several years and that’s awesome! I’m happy, content, and in the best physical shape I’ve been in for a long time.”

Although he lost his beloved mother, Rudy feels blessed to have other family members who are supportive of his efforts and who will welcome him home when he graduates from our Men’s New Life Program. He’s also considering our Transitional Living Program. Whichever option he chooses, he says, “I need to stay with God and to be involved with a church.”

To friends like you, Rudy says enthusiastically, “Thank you very much! Thank God I’m alive! I thank God for the Springfield Rescue Mission. I’m going to do my best. I’m ready to begin my life again.”