I started drinking when I was only nine years old, under pressure from my own mother. As I got older, I learned to self-harm for the numbness I craved. At just 14, I started using drugs. Some might say my consumption wasn’t severe, and my close family and friends never realized I had a problem…. Read more »
At 43, alcohol had completely isolated Christian from the outside world. A former hotel general manager, he spent his days alone in his room drinking, his only connection to the outside world being the errands he ran for his mother. Following his stay at Villa Saint-Léonard and the Portage’s Employment Reintegration Centre, Christian completely transformed… Read more »
I arrived at Portage as an altered and damaged version of myself, filled with anger and continuous reckless behavior. During the year leading up to my admission date, my world seemed to be crumbling around me. I blamed everyone but myself and dove deeper into my addiction. When it was first suggested I should go… Read more »
Having only completed Grade 10, I worked for minimal wages for many years and learned “on the job”. I wasn’t always receptive to the opportunities life offered me and, let’s face it, I struggled to make ends meet for a long time. I evolved within several companies, including one in particular that recognized my talent… Read more »
At only 16, Julien’s life took a turn when he used his first cannabis wax pen. This highly THC-concentrated e-cigarette quickly led him into a spiral of isolation and addiction. Through Portage’s Adolescents and Young Adult Program in Prevost, Julien was able to work on the underlying reasons for his substance use and learn to… Read more »
I arrived at Portage Saint-Malachie on June 19, 2023. I was 17 years old and my life was falling apart. I could no longer see the light at the end of the tunnel and I was crying out for help. I would wake up sobbing at night, just wanting to die. My dark thoughts were… Read more »
These are the words of Alexandre, a graduate from the adult day program in Quebec, spoken during the Recognition Ceremony held on December 8th at the Grand Théâtre de Québec. Hi everyone, I would like to begin by expressing my gratitude and pride in standing here today, representing the graduates of Portage Quebec and sharing… Read more »
I’d like to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude for the guidance and support I received during my drug rehab therapy at the Portage program for mental health and addiction. It was not an easy journey, but thanks to the program and the staff’s guidance, patience and knowledge of mental health issues, I… Read more »
Eric’s journey from addiction to recovery is a testament to resilience, determination, and the power of second chances. Before going to Portage Atlantic, Eric faced overwhelming challenges, trapped in a cycle of addiction and despair. However, through the structured support of the Portage program and the unwavering love of his family, he was able to… Read more »
For many, the back to school season is a fresh start, a chance to set new goals and embrace new opportunities. But for Kaylee, this season means much more than just going back to academic life. It represents a major transformation, a journey from a place of darkness to a future full of hope and… Read more »
