Hello, my name is Nick, and I’m 27 years old. My journey has been one of profound transformation, filled with moments of despair and incredible resilience. As a young person, I often felt lost and without direction. After leaving school, I sought purpose by joining the army as a combat medic. This role gave me a profound sense of meaning, but unfortunately, due to mental health concerns from my past, my career in the army was tragically cut short.

Upon leaving the army, I was plunged into a deep abyss of uncertainty and pain. I turned to drugs and alcohol to numb the overwhelming sense of loss and confusion. For eight long years, I battled addiction, a relentless struggle that led to multiple suicide attempts and hospitalizations for overdoses. Each day felt like a fight for survival, and I often wondered if I would ever find a way out of the darkness.

In the depths of my despair, I entered rehab, where I was encouraged to find a new purpose in life. It was there that I discovered YMCA Worcestershire was hiring. Despite my doubts and fears, I applied for a position as a life coach. To my astonishment, I was hired. This opportunity allowed me to support young people who felt as lost and hopeless as I once did. However, while I was busy helping others, I neglected my own healing and eventually relapsed.

When YMCA Worcestershire found out about my relapse, they didn’t turn their back on me. Instead, they offered me unwavering support and helped me get back on my feet. Their belief in me was a lifeline, and with their help, and the help of 12 Step Fellowships, I began to rebuild my life. I am now approaching one year of sobriety, a milestone that fills me with immense pride and gratitude.

My journey has led me to a new career in Human Resources, where I continue to support people, focusing on our most valuable asset—our staff. With the steadfast support of YMCA Worcestershire, I have returned to college to further my education and advance my career. This journey has been nothing short of miraculous, transforming me from a person who once saw no future to someone who now embraces life with hope and determination.

Running the TCS London Marathon in 2025 is not just a personal challenge for me; it is a testament to my resilience and a message to others that no matter how dark their past, they can always find the light. I want to inspire the young people I once supported and show them that they, too, can overcome their struggles and find their purpose.

Please support my journey and donate to YMCA Worcestershire. Your contribution will help provide vital support to those who need it most, just as it did for me. Together, we can make a difference and inspire others to find their light in the darkest of times.

Thank you for your support.