A Chance to Rebuild My Life
Alex’s journey—a young man who turned tragedy into hope and discovered a new purpose for his life.
Growing up, Alex faced his share of challenges. Despite experimenting with substances as early as 11 years old, he graduated high school and even earned an athletic scholarship to college. But his struggles with addiction grew stronger, eventually leading him to multiple rehab stays and time in jail. Still, Alex never gave up completely—thanks in large part to his family’s unwavering support.
Rock bottom came at just 21 years old when Alex’s fiancée, who was pregnant with their daughter, was tragically killed. This devastating loss sent Alex into a downward spiral, and he felt utterly lost. “For a long time, I didn’t want to be alive,” he admitted.
“I found not just shelter but also community, faith, and a chance to rebuild my life.”
It wasn’t until he found himself in jail again that Alex’s life took a dramatic turn. His lawyer suggested Wheeler Mission’s program, and Alex decided to take a leap of faith. It turned out to be the beginning of a transformation he never imagined possible.
“When I arrived at Wheeler, I was scared, but also excited,” Alex shared. “My dad picked me up from jail, and we came straight here. I thought it might be a work camp, but it’s so much more.”
At Wheeler, Alex began to see himself differently. He deepened his relationship with God, finding a peace he had never known before. “Before I came here, I knew of God but didn’t really know Him. Now, I read the Bible every day, and my faith has become my anchor. I’ve been reborn into the light.”
Alex also discovered the joy of serving others. Whether mopping floors, building wooden pallets, or lending a listening ear to his peers, he embraced the opportunity to give back. Through these acts of service and the support of Wheeler’s staff and residents, Alex began to heal—not just from addiction, but also from years of guilt and grief.
Today, Alex looks to the future with hope and determination. He plans to further his education and serve as a group counselor for young people in his church. Most importantly, he wants to honor the memory of his fiancée and daughter by living a life filled with faith, purpose, and love.
“I’m thankful to Wheeler Mission because I have faith and a relationship with God,” Alex said. “And I hope people will support the mission because there’s always another one of me out there—someone who needs help, hope, and healing but doesn’t know where to find it.”
Alex’s story reminds us that no matter how lost we feel, it’s never too late to find our way. At Wheeler Mission, we are honored to walk alongside people like Alex as they discover the path to redemption and renewal.