Freshman year of high school I got caught smoking marijuana on the campus by our favorite teacher. I got expelled from the school and I went into depression.

I got back into school, played sports, but I still drank and smoked. Then eventually I used meth, until one night I overdosed. That really took me by surprise. It woke me up to realize that I could’ve lost my life.

I realized that I needed to stop abusing myself. My body and my spirit was telling me that I have a bigger purpose to serve.

The life I live today is amazing. I’m thankful to be able to experience fatherhood and being married for almost 12 years. My mind and my heart is open. I feel connected. Through recovery, that’s possible.

– Joel Merrifield
Round Valley CA
Tribal Health Youth Coordinator

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