My name is Obinna A., and I was born and raised in Nigeria. My journey with addiction began at an early age—I had my first drink at the age of six. Growing up surrounded by drugs and alcohol, I eventually turned to substance use as a way to numb the pain and trauma I had endured.

Over time, my addiction escalated, leading me down a path of crime. After multiple encounters with the police, I was finally offered an opportunity to change my life. Admitting that I had a problem was the first step, and AADAP was there to support me when everyone else had given up. For that, I will always be deeply thankful to AADAP.

One of the biggest challenges I face today is encountering people still trapped in addiction—on the streets, on the Metro, and in my daily life. It’s a meaningful reminder of where I’ve been. Rebuilding my relationship with my mother has been challenging, but I approach it with humility and an open heart. Despite these challenges, I remain steadfast in my recovery and committed to building a better future. 

A turning point for me came when I shared my autobiography at the Therapeutic Community (TC), as part of my recovery process. I was terrified of being judged for my past, but to my surprise, my peers embraced me. They encouraged me to share my story more widely—even to write a book about it. That moment gave me a gut feeling that I was finally on the right path. Since then, my life has transformed in ways I never thought possible. I now have my own apartment—a powerful symbol of independence and stability. 

I’ve reconnected with my family in Nigeria, found mental and emotional balance, grown spiritually, and hold a job that gives me purpose. I also have a sponsor who guides me through the 12-step program, and a network of support in recovery. Looking ahead, I aspire to earn a degree in Drug and Alcohol Counseling so I can give back to others walking this same path. I also hope to rebuild trust with my mother, and achieve financial independence.

I owe much of my progress to the incredible people who have supported me: my former counselor, Damond Alford, who deepened my understanding of addiction; Conrad J., my brother in recovery who always has my back; James Stinson, my mentor and role model; Antonio Ramirez, my brother and “trudging buddy”; and many others who have made my recovery a meaningful journey. 

Having experienced seven years of homelessness, I can confidently say that recovery has completely turned my life around. Reflecting on my past, I see the stark contrast between then and now. In my former life as a model, everything seemed glamorous—fame, popularity, and the allure of a glittering lifestyle. But behind the scenes, I was battling addiction and inner turmoil. I’ve learned that all that glitters is not gold. In order to heal, you have to feel, master your emotions, trust the process, and believe in yourself. 

Today, my life holds a richness that money can’t buy. I’ve found security, independence, and a sense of purpose. Recovery has empowered me, giving me a real, lasting value, I never had before. 

"I once lived a life of external glamor, but now I live with richness that doesn’t come with a price tag. I carry my wealth in my mind, body, heart, and in my soul. I'm honored to be on this path, moving forward, never going back."

-Obinna A.