My name is David Warner, I was born an addict as I come from a dysfunctional family who are addicts themselves and suffer from the disease of addiction.
My addiction took me to many dark places and one of them being homelessness, then eventually jail. At the age of 36 I was sat in jail and decided enough was enough as I was sick and tired of being sick and tired.
I looked into recovery and surrendered to the fact I was never going to change unless I had help. A friend told me about Lindale Recovery in Birmingham. I ended up getting released into Lindale and that’s where I got stuck into my recovery.
The support Lindale showed me was nothing i've ever experienced before, I really felt part of a community and had a sense of belonging. During my time there I was shown how to live without having to resort to my old behaviours. Taking part in their 12-week program — which focuses on addiction recovery and rebuilding our lives — gave me much-needed structure, routine, and life skills. It was exactly what I needed, especially after being raised in an environment where a dishonest lifestyle was all I knew.
I went on to volunteer at a residential treatment centre, Seasons Rehabilitation Centre, which eventually led to a paid role as a support worker. There, I helped other addicts through their detox, with many of them later moving on to Lindale to continue their recovery journey. I worked there for over two years.
However, my life has now taken a new direction — I’ve gone back to college to train as an electrician. I’m currently working in a trainee electrician role while continuing my studies.
After spending two years as a resident at Lindale, I’ve now moved on. I’m coming up to five years clean and sober, and during this time, I’ve built a healthy relationship with my fiancée — we’re getting married later this year. I’ve also taken on the role of stepfather to her two beautiful children.In addition, I’ve been rebuilding my relationship with my daughter. After missing out on so much of her life, I’m doing everything I can to be present, involved, and the father she deserves.
I spent over 20 years in active addiction, and today, I live a life beyond my wildest dreams — thanks to Lindale Recovery and the amazing program they offer.
If you’re in a dark place or trapped in addiction. Reach out for help — if I can do it, you can too.
