Michelle’s Success Story

As a lifelong resident of northern Utah, it is hard for me to admit that I became dependent on opioid medications at an early age. I had my son when I was a teenager and experienced complications afterward that required surgeries. It was the early 1990s, before anyone understood the dangers of long-term opioid prescriptions. Throughout my diagnosis and surgeries, I was prescribed opioids that I took daily for many years, all under the care of medical professionals.

At the time it seemed normal to them and to me. But the result was that I became not only addicted to prescription medications but physically dependent on them. I was stuck and did not know how to get free.

For the next twenty-five years I struggled with opioid dependence. I burned bridges with my closest friends and family. So, when I showed up at my sister’s door in Ogden in 2024, it was not a surprise that she turned me away. She had a son living with her and did not trust me to be around her family. Still, she wanted to help and bought me bus fare to get to Clearfield where I knew some people who might take me in.

It was a hot July evening when I arrived at the main bus terminal in Ogden. My transfer ticket had expired, and I could not get to Clearfield. Alone, I started walking south through Ogden. Around 10 p.m. I saw the Jesus Saves sign glowing above the Ogden Rescue Mission. I had never seen the place before and wondered what it was.

Since it was after hours, the building was locked, so I knocked. The staff talked with me and agreed to let me stay. I soon learned about the New Life Program from others staying at the Mission. They told me it helped people overcome addiction and get off the streets. It sounded like the opportunity I needed.

I joined the New Life Program that night. Since then, my life has changed in ways I never expected. My journey has not been a typical one. Because of legal charges and medical issues, I had to leave the program several times to get treatment and to take care of my legal responsibilities. I spent time in jail before I could be released on probation and return to the Mission.

When I was finally able to settle fully into the program, I opened my Bible for the first time. Even though I grew up in a religious family, I had never read or studied the Bible on my own. It was eye opening. Every day I learned something new.

Before coming to the Mission, I knew there was something missing in my life, but I did not know what it was. I always believed in God in a general way, but I did not know Him personally. As I studied and learned at the Rescue Mission, I came to see that God had led me there for a reason. He wanted me to begin a true relationship with Him.

As I have grown, I can see God building me in unique ways. In my work therapy role on the New Life Program, I serve in the laundry, washing the clothes of our homeless guests and making sure towels, linens, and other fabrics are clean. It has been challenging to see people come in with sickness, grime, lice, and other conditions, but I can feel God stretching me to love and serve others.

Recently I folded clothes for a man staying at the Mission. He thanked me and told me that even his mother never folded his clothes when he was growing up. It gave me joy to think that God used me to bless him in such a simple way.

As part of the New Life Program, I found a local church where I attend regularly. The messages teach me more about God, and the people are friendly and welcoming. No one looks at you differently because you come from the Mission. They see you as another person who wants to grow in their relationship with God.

As I have done well in the program, my sister has encouraged me. She told me she always believed I could do it, and our relationship is improving. I pray for a renewed relationship with my son in Colorado. I have two grandchildren and a third on the way. I hope one day I can rebuild my relationship with my son and his family.

Until that day comes, I continue to work on being a healthy follower of Jesus. One of the other women in the program joined a gym with me, and together we are getting in better physical shape. It has been wonderful to have fellowship with others who are committed to doing the hard work of overcoming addiction and living for God.

Soon I will move into the employment phase of the New Life Program. I would love to find work helping others who struggle with addiction. I believe God has called me to that kind of work, but I want to wait for His timing.

I am so thankful to all the supporters of the Ogden Rescue Mission. Without your support, I would not be on the path I am today. I would not have found faith, sobriety, and a new life. Thank you so much. Your support has truly helped me.