Tarnz

Drugs & Alcohol

I came to The Salvation Army for help because I was an alcoholic. I was desperate to get into a drug rehab programme. I’m now in recovery.

I’m a registered nurse and felt that I was burnt out. I was drinking more than I should have and I felt unsafe as a nurse, so I decided to get my life sorted out.

When I first came to the Bridge Programme I felt very lost. I hated everything about myself. I was a broken woman. They really cared for me and I felt safe here. Gradually I got my self-confidence back.

After time in rehab, I came to Employment Plus to work on my motivation and self-esteem. Through this process I found a love for art.

Along the journey I've rekindled a new relationship with God. There have been a lot of wonderful changes because of an incredible support network around me here, which make me accountable for my sobriety.

Julz, my Employment Plus tutor and friend, has been a massive support along this path. My self-belief has been restored. I've started to take my art seriously now; it's still a hobby but I have four artworks accepted into the Matariki Awards, which is amazing!

I've become a better person because of my faith in God. My outlook on life has completely changed.

I continue to move forward. I'm loving the fact that I'm a better mother now and a much better grandmother. I love my grandchildren immensely.