Stories
Justin's Story: How Teen Challenge Restored My Life
My name is Justin Hurst, and I am 30 years old. Growing up, I had a good faith-based childhood, but around the time my mom and dad separated, my life took a turn. I blamed myself for a lot of things, including their divorce, so I started trying out different ways to cope. That quickly transpired into me using any drug I could get ahold of to numb the pain.
I became a father at 21 but wasn't the father I needed to be. Fast forward, I became a father again at 24, but I was still living in sin and doing things according to my understanding and will.
My addiction took me to places I never thought I'd go. It completely overtook every aspect of my life. It destroyed my family and left me homeless.
Finally, I reached a breaking point and called my mom. We contacted Adult Teen Challenge, and that's where I found God, and everything clicked. I graduated from the program in November 2019 and have been free from addiction ever since.
Romans 12:2 was my verse for that year: "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind." Clearly, I had been doing the opposite, choosing earthly things over everything else in my life that mattered.
Teen Challenge gave me the biggest blessings of my life. Knowing I couldn't return to my hometown and stay clean, I settled in Salem, close to one of my brothers from the program and the love of my life.
Fast forward, and God has been with me every step since I surrendered it all to Him.
I now have three beautiful girls, am married to my best friend, and am living the life God has paved for me.
I have a life I never thought I'd have.
God is so good, and I am so thankful for five years of freedom!
- Justin Hurst
Want to learn more?
What Is Teen Challenge? - Understand how the program works and what to expect.
Get Help for Your Family - If you're ready to explore options, we're here to walk with you.
Read Rocco's Story - Another life transformed through faith-based recovery.
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Justin Franich
Justin Franich is a former meth addict, Teen Challenge graduate, and pastor who has been clean since 2005. Today he's a husband, father, and Executive Director of Shenandoah Valley Adult Teen Challenge. He hosts the Rebuilding Life After Addiction podcast and helps families across the U.S. navigate faith-based recovery options, compare programs, and rebuild life after addiction.
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