Vista Bay Graduate, Mason U.

Completed the Program in 2006

When I came to VistaBay I was in the darkest period of my life. I was deeply addicted to heroin, crack cocaine and meth. I was committing terrible and heartless crimes. In one year’s time I went from owning my own home and doing well in life to being addicted to drugs and convicted of five felonies. I lost my home and found myself facing two to three years prison time.

In short, I was a mess, with little hope of survival.

After being bailed out of jail by my father, I promised I would get myself into a program. I looked at several treatment centers in my area, but was told I would have to wait three to six months to even be considered for admission. I lost hope. Before long, I was soon using drugs and committing crimes again in order to support my habit. Shortly after, I was arrested again. At that point, I was convinced that I would spend the next years of my life in prison.

Thankfully, unbeknownst to me, my mother had been using the internet to research rehab options on my behalf. She said she had found the perfect place and asked if I would go. I said yes, although I did not think that rehab would do anything to lessen my legal problems. At least I would be clean and sober, free from the terrible suffering that is being a drug addict. That was all I wanted out of rehab when I went into it. However, what I actually gained was so much more. While going through the Vista Bay program my entire outlook on life changed. I was able to take responsibility for my actions. I could see how I could better control my future. I gained a new respect for others, for work, and for happiness that I had never achieved before. The changes in me were truly miraculous.

When I went to my sentencing two days after completing the program, the judge was visibly shocked by my progress. He could see that the changes in me were real, honest and that I was truly remorseful of my past actions. In fact, the judge was so impressed by my new attitude and outlook on life that he sentenced me to thirty-six months of probation instead of the thirty months of prison the District Attorney was asking for.

Since that day, I have been able to make a life for myself that I never dreamed possible. I have a wonderful relationship with my family, a gainful and rewarding job and a bright future ahead of me. I have not had even the slightest urge to do drugs again. Not long ago, my life was in shambles, but because of VistaBay, everyday is a welcome opportunity to celebrate life.

- Mason U.