Johnny's Story
A Story of Strength, Recovery, and Giving Back
Johnny's story is one of resilience, transformation, and hope. As a survivor of the Sixties Scoop, he faced significant challenges early in life. His parents passed away when he was young, leaving him in the care of Social Services until he was 14. He then moved in with his sister, but the foundation for his struggles with addiction had already been laid.
His foster father drank every day and still went to work, leading Johnny to believe that drinking was a normal part of life. He followed suit, beginning his journey with alcohol at just 14 years old. Despite this, he built a successful career as a journeyman carpenter, contributing to Calgary’s skyline with high-rise buildings. However, his addiction was always present, and over the decades, it took a heavy toll.
By the time he reached 50, his drinking and drug use had severely impacted his health. His doctor warned him that his body would shut down if he didn’t stop. Even after experiencing pancreas attacks that required weeklong hospital stays, he continued drinking. Cocaine and marijuana had also been part of his life since he was a teenager, making his addiction even more complex.
Things worsened during the COVID-19 pandemic. Grief from losing six family members in just two years compounded his struggles. The financial support he received as a Sixties Scoop Survivor and land settlement compensation only fueled toxic relationships and further substance use. Eventually, Johnny found himself at a breaking point. He lay in bed, desperate for a way out. After weeks of praying, he woke up in the hospital after an overdose. That moment was his turning point.
Determined to change, Johnny left everything behind—his girlfriend, his home, and even his beloved cat. He reached out to his social worker at the Elbow River Healing Lodge, who ensured that he wasn’t released from the hospital until a treatment plan was in place. This led him to Oxford House’s pre-treatment program, a critical step in his recovery journey.
The Importance of Pre-Treatment
By the time Johnny arrived at Oxford House’s pre-treatment home, he was in poor health. Weighing just 105 pounds, he was weak and struggling with diabetes and the effects of prolonged substance use. He realized he wasn’t physically ready to enter a treatment program yet. Thankfully, Oxford House provided him with the safe housing, nutrition, and support he needed to regain his strength.
During his two months in pre-treatment, Johnny followed a proper diabetes care plan, ate regular meals, and gained 25 pounds. When he was finally strong enough, he moved on to a 63-day treatment program at the Kapown Treatment Center in Slave Lake, Alberta. After completing the program, he transitioned into their Sober Living Program for five months. But he longed to return home to Calgary, and Oxford House welcomed him back into Transitional Housing.
The Role of Oxford House in Johnny’s Recovery
Oxford House didn’t just give Johnny a place to stay—it provided him with a supportive community. Surrounded by housemates who shared his commitment to sobriety, he found encouragement and motivation to keep moving forward. He also discovered something he had never considered before: faith. Through Alcoholics Anonymous, his church, and Oxford House, he connected with a higher power and found strength in spirituality.
When Oxford House staff saw his dedication to sobriety, they offered him an opportunity to become a House Lead in a pre-treatment home. At first, Johnny had doubts about taking on this responsibility, but he soon realized it was the right decision. The role provided a way to save money and, more importantly, allowed him to give back to the recovery community.
The Role of a House Lead
As a House Lead, Johnny became a mentor and support system for others beginning their recovery journeys. He helped new residents adjust to life in Oxford House, ensuring they followed house guidelines and stayed accountable. He understood their struggles because he had been in their shoes. This role strengthened his own sobriety, giving him a renewed sense of purpose and fulfillment.
Looking back, Johnny sees how far he has come. From years of addiction and hospital stays to a life of sobriety, faith, and leadership, he is proof that change is possible. His journey wasn’t easy, but with determination, support from Oxford House, and faith in a higher power, he transformed his life.
Today, Johnny continues to walk the path of sobriety, knowing that every challenge he overcame has led him to where he is now. He no longer takes life for granted. Instead, he embraces every day with gratitude and a commitment to helping others find the same hope and healing that he did.
Johnny’s story is a testament to the power of recovery, the importance of pre-treatment, and the impact of giving back. Through Oxford House, he found not only a home but a purpose. And for that, he is truly grateful.