Michael, a 62-year-old retired U.S. Army Veteran, has lived a life marked by service, hardship, and perseverance. He spent five years on active duty stationed in Germany, followed by two years in the Army National Guard. During his time in the military, he married and worked as a cook until his honorable discharge.

After transitioning to civilian life in North and South Carolina, Michael found steady employment with a bearing company. Life seemed to be on track—until the pain of divorce led him down a difficult path. Struggling to cope, he turned to drugs, a decision that eventually left him homeless for nearly 15 years.

A turning point came when Michael met his second wife. Together, they moved to Arizona, where he worked as a machine operator. With determination, he achieved four and a half years of sobriety. Yet, life dealt another devastating blow when his wife passed away. The grief triggered a relapse, and Michael cycled through three different rehab programs in an effort to regain stability.

Today, Michael is serving a one-and-a-half-year sentence for possession, with a release date set for December 2025. Despite the setback, he has embraced this time as an opportunity for growth and healing. He has completed Substance Abuse Awareness classes and participates in Modern Treatment, an evidence-based recovery program. He is also furthering his education in mathematics and writing, preparing himself for the future with the goal of one day owning his own business.

Looking ahead, Michael plans to return to South Carolina after his release. His priority is to care for his elderly mother and reconnect with his many siblings and extended family, who form a strong support system for him.

Through it all, Michael leans heavily on his faith, which provides him with strength, gratitude, and hope. His journey is a testament to resilience—the story of a man who has faced loss and hardship but continues to move forward with determination and a vision for a better life.