35-year-old Luke Ravula calls Empower Pacific a blessing in disguise, after receiving the support and counselling that helped him overcome years of drug addiction, crime, and despair.
Sharing his story at the launch of Empower Pacific’s “Alcohol and Other Drugs” (AOD) counselling services, Ravula recalled how his drug journey began in 2012 which he thought would become his reality.
Abandoned by his parents at the age of two, Ravula was raised by his grandparents; however, he fell under the influence of the wrong peers, which led him to experiment with methamphetamine.
Ravula shared that his addiction to drugs forced him into theft, eventually landing him in jail from the year 2015 to 2020.
While speaking to fijivillage News, Ravula said his drug addiction grew so severe that he began stealing from his own family and surviving on handouts.
Ravula shared that in 2022 he managed to find a job in carpentry, using skills passed down by his grandparents, but his addiction to drugs made it difficult for him to save money or create stability in his life.
Ravula adds that in 2023 he returned to the streets, believing that drugs defined who he was.
He said that his prayers were finally answered when he crossed paths with Empower Pacific at Tamavua Twomey Hospital.
Ravula shared that he was provided with shelter and medical care for six months, where he also received emotional and mental health support that had been missing all his life.
He emphasised that the counselling not only helped him control his anger but also rebuild his mental health, giving him the confidence to share his story.
Now free from the life that once held him captive, Ravula is urging everyone struggling with drug addiction not to give up and to make the most of the help that is readily available.
If you are facing issues and would like to speak to a counsellor, then you can call Empower Pacific on toll free number 5626.
