Testimonial by Portage Atlantic resident Liam McCarthy at Cassidy Lake Grand Opening Event

June 18, 2010

My addiction to drugs and alcohol had consumed my life, destroyed my relationships, and brought me to the brink of death. Caught in a vicious downward spiral, I had lost all hope and love for myself and for those around me. I did not believe there would ever be a solution to my out-of-control substance dependency.

Years into this suffering, I finally came to Portage, broken and hopeless. I had come to the realisation I needed to remove myself from the negativity which had surrounded me for the majority of my adolescent years.

At Portage I rebuilt my self esteem, learned to love myself and the simple things in life. Everything I have today is due to the help from the staff and my peers here at Portage. I have relearned who I am, and in the process, gained friends who will last a lifetime.

Most of you here today are strangers to me, yet your being here means the world to my peers and I, and I must thank all of you for your support.

Having nearly completed my program, I am eternally grateful for the chance to give back to Portage what has been freely given to me. I am eager to reintegrate into society and apply the tools and skills I have learned here at Portage. In the process I hope to influence others in a positive manner, and become a productive member of society.