Stories
Edgar's Story: From 26 Detoxes to Overseeing 350 Men in Recovery
Hi, my name is Edgar. I am 56 years old, born and raised in Hoboken, New Jersey. Because of learned behavior and poor choices, I began using heroin at an early age.
Heroin cost me my wife and children, my goals and dreams-but most devastating of all, it separated me completely from God.
I tried everything. N.A. meetings. Twenty-six detoxes. Six inpatient programs. Nothing worked. Eventually, I ended up in state prison-angry, bitter, hopeless, and without purpose.
One day, while incarcerated, my oldest brother and sister-in-law asked if I would consider a faith-based program in Virginia called Shenandoah Valley Adult & Teen Challenge. In that moment, I truly believe the Holy Spirit invaded my heart. I said yes.
Within a week, I was on a train to Virginia, headed for the Shenandoah Valley Adult & Teen Challenge induction center. When I arrived, I was picked up at the train station by Pastor John and Pastor Justin. They greeted me with a hug-and for the first time in a long time, I felt hope.
After successfully completing my stay at SVTC, I was transferred to Pennsylvania Adult & Teen Challenge. There, I completed 11 months in the program and graduated. I was then offered a six-month internship, followed by a six-month apprenticeship.
After completing both, I was hired as the Disciplinarian and Intake Manager, overseeing 350 men. I share this not to boast, but to give Christ all the glory. It's not about the position-it's about the condition. The condition of your heart.
It still amazes me what God can do in a person's life. There is no chemical solution to a spiritual problem. Today, I know there is something far greater than heroin, depression, or addiction-and that is the blood of Jesus Christ.
My identity is now in Christ and Christ alone. All glory be to God.
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 Justin Hurst'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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