Couple Fights Drug Addiction With Help Of Teen Challenge
MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- All this week, we've brought you stories of those who've graduated from Minnesota Adult and Teen Challenge as part of our "Trees of Hope" series.
The one-year program helps more than 500 people a year overcome addiction.
Chelsea Hill and Michael Dwyer have never been so excited for the future.
"We have a wedding that we're looking forward to," Michael said.
Next October, they'll begin a new life together. It's a day made more special knowing the path to get there hasn't been easy.
"I would use to numb my pain," Chelsea said.
"My heroin use led me to homelessness," Michael said.
The two have spent years battling drug addiction. Their most recent relapse was fueled by incredible loss.
"I ended up having a still birth last October … so we lost our son when I was five-months pregnant," she said.
The couple has lost two children.
"The last relapse that I was on, things got really, really bad quickly. Really dark," he said.
He turned to Minnesota Adult and Teen Challenge last September. Chelsea followed months later.
"I made a decision to fight to change my life, and that's what I'm going to do," Michael said.
Other rehab programs have failed, but they say the one year, faith-based aspect gives them a new outlook on sobriety.
"I see everything differently because I have God in my life," Chelsea said.
As they work their programs separately, their connection as a couple keeps growing. Michael's room is filled with letters and keepsakes from Chelsea, offering encouragement and support.
"She drew her in her dress and me in the tux with the door in between us," Michael said.
Once outside the walls of Teen Challenge, Michael and Chelsea know there will be temptation.
"I know how to handle it differently this time in a positive way," she said.
But the couple feels ready to face life's challenges together.
"We have, you know, all the reason in the world to succeed, so I'm like super excited," he said.
Michael will graduate this month and hopes to work for Teen Challenge. Chelsea will graduate in two months.
We want to thank our viewers on behalf of Minnesota Adult and Teen Challenge. Your generosity raised nearly $27,000 for the organization during Tuesday's phone bank.
Click here to donate.