Mark

Has a lived experience of addiction

At the end of 18 years of cannabis and ice dependency I was sexually assaulted whilst experiencing psychosis and deliberately infected with HIV. In 2019, two months after this event I went to rehab for six months.

From 2020 to now in mid-2022 I have studied a Cert III in Community Services, won the regional award for Queensland's Equity VET Student of the Year, worked in the same rehab as a support worker and completed a Diploma of Counselling.
Today, I work full-time facilitating AOD education sessions for the wider community and assisting families with a loved one struggling with drug and alcohol issues.

This year I look forward to buying my first home and beginning a degree specialising in Mental Health and Addiction.
Recovery has provided me the opportunity to excel in life and reach my potential. I am eternally grateful for now living a life of purpose and meaning, and I aim to leave a legacy of hope to others.