Portage was my last chance; and I had gone through a lot of chances

2025-02-28

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 »

The Employment Reintegration Centre transformed my professional career

2025-02-6

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 »

Portage taught me about true self-love

2025-01-16

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 »

You alone can do it, but you can’t do it alone

2024-12-19

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 »

From the Abyss to the Light: My Journey at Portage

2024-11-21

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 »

Portage, my saving grace that I will always cherish

2024-10-25

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 »

Substance use had taken over my life and I lost everything

2024-07-24

Before coming to Portage, I was an alcoholic and I resorted to drugs that I would use everyday. Substance use had taken over my life and slowly but surely, I started to lose everything. My family did not recognize me anymore, my addiction was affecting my ability to work and keep a job, and I… Read more »

All it takes is an open mind and one foot in the door

2024-06-11

Before Portage, jail was a looming threat: possession with intent to traffic, driving under the influence, and possession of methamphetamine. I had no intention of going to therapy until I learned I was under investigation for trafficking. What appeared to be the biggest mistake of my young adult life transformed into the best decision I… Read more »

Freedom from addiction gave me a new lease on life

2024-01-18

Before substance use crept into my life, I was a veritable ray of sunshine! As a youth, I excelled at sports and did brilliantly at school. But a shadow fell insidiously over the seemingly gleaming canvas of my life. The consequences of my new habit impacted my motivation to the point where I completely abandoned… Read more »

Overcoming addiction, a family matter

2023-12-21

Portage helped my son gain a better understanding of who he is. It gave him back his pride and his sense of value. It helped him find new ways of dealing with his issues and challenges. By the time he entered Portage last April, I was exhausted, but for the first time in a very… Read more »