At the age of three, I was diagnosed with retinoblastoma, a rare form of eye cancer. Doctors told my parents, “Either you remove his eye, or he dies.” Growing up with only one working eye was difficult, especially as a child trying to fit in with others. Back then, I was eager to prove I was just like everyone else.

My curiosity and the influence of my peers sometimes led me down the wrong path. When I was 15, I was hanging out with friends when one of them revealed he had ‘ice’ (methamphetamine) with him. That’s when I got high for the first time. After I dropped out of school to work, my tolerance had increased. I needed more and more, and soon I was working just to buy ice.

Then it happened. My house was raided by the Central Narcotics Bureau. I had to report for weekly urine tests. That forced me to quit briefly. But once I received my first National Service (NS) allowance, I relapsed and as fate would have it, we had a surprise urine test the very next day. This time, I served 6 months in the Drug Rehabilitation Centre (DRC).

I was assigned to Chris, my Case Manager at Lakeside. Being an ex-offender too, he has seen prison longer than I have seen. He has a deep understanding of the struggles associated with addiction, which gives me confidence in his guidance. His encouragement and insights have been essential in helping me overcome challenges and focus on my goals. Without him, I might still be in the DRC.

I’ve learned to lead a healthier and more balanced life. Thankfully I secured a job right after NS and I’m currently working full time. And a huge reason why this was possible was thanks to all the donors who supported Lakeside. Your help is not just about money. You are essential for our success as we work to rebuild our lives.” – Adam

With help from Lakeside, Adam was able to turn his young life around. Every step we take with ex-inmates unlocks new beginnings. Support our work with them by donating or raising funds for #AMillionSteps: https://lakeside.org.sg/support-us/a-million-steps/