Rob's Story

The Hardest, Simplest Thing I Ever Had to Do.

In my early twenties, I got my Bachelor's Degree in Political Science. Right before I was supposed to go to Law School, I found myself addicted. I then spent years being street-involved, experiencing homelessness, and in the throes of active addiction.

My personal support system eroded early on. My partner was also actively addicted, and we had children together who were being cared for by family. I had some stable-ish times, and then I would experience homelessness again.

The year before I got into Quintin Warner House, someone asked me: "Hey Rob, isn't today your birthday?" I didn't know it was my birthday. I didn't even know it was September, let alone autumn.

I had no semblance of time when I was in active addiction. I stopped even registering if it was daytime or nighttime.

For about a year, I was accessing one of Mission Services of London's programs. It was the first time in a long time that I could close a bedroom door and feel safe.

At this point, my veil of ignorance had been lifted. I knew I was deep into a problem. Staff at Community Mental Health Programs told me about Quintin Warner House (QWH). I officially came into QWH's addiction treatment program on February 14, 2005. I graduated four months later and stayed in the Annex Aftercare Program until January 2006.

After I left the Annex, I always stayed connected to QWH. For example, when my stepson's life was taken, I showed up on their doorstep for emotional support.

Eventually, I began working at QWH as a member of the night staff. Through time, training, and education, I grew my way into becoming an Addiction Counsellor, which is where I am today.

QWH teaches the participants that addiction is symptomatic. As a person with lived experience and as an Addiction Counsellor, addiction is complicated. The most challenging part is that every story is different, and every solution is different.

I'm glad I found a way to give back. I had never done that before. I'm proud that I've found myself, personally and professionally.