GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — One man has turned his substance abuse into a passion for helping others.
Roderic Townes started using drugs and alcohol when he was just 12 years old. Looking back, Townes realized it stemmed from being raised by his grandparents because his mother couldn't afford two kids.
Townes said he continued to make bad choices through early adulthood and committed felonies.
He was in and out of rehab until he started to change his outlook on life.
Townes committed to putting himself first and following the 12-step program for addiction recovery.
Ironically, after being sober for several years, he found his passion at Sanford Addiction Treatment Centers in Grand Rapids.
Townes now works as the house manager, welcoming everyone who walks through the doors and encourages men as they go their own journey with recovery.
"He brings with him, not only his story, but the ability to embrace others with love," explained Rae Green, founder of Sanford Addiction Treatment Centers. "That's a real indispensable component of healing."
"I still, today, am active in my own recovery," Townes explained. "I go to meetings and I still talk to my sponsor on a daily basis and pray to a power higher than myself. I do everything that was told to me to do in the beginning."
Townes has been clean for about 12 years and says recovery is possible.
If you or someone you know is struggling to get or stay sober, reach out to Sanford Addiction Treatment Centers.
