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.