Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Taati Niilenge
Published on 2024-03-30 06:00:00
Drug addiction is a battle that many people have fought and overcome, often at great personal cost. Some have lost their homes, their cars, and nearly lost their lives to addiction. The stories of those who have struggled with addiction and come out the other side are both harrowing and inspiring.
One such story is that of Linwill van Wyk, a former police officer who became addicted to crack cocaine, leading to a serious accident that left him paralyzed from the chest down. Despite the toll that addiction took on his life, he considers himself fortunate to have survived when many of his friends did not. Van Wyk now works as a liaison officer and chaplain at the Narraville Police Station, sharing his story as a cautionary tale for others.
Van Wyk’s addiction began at a young age, following a difficult childhood marked by the loss of his mother and a strained relationship with his father. His descent into drug use escalated over the years, culminating in a tragic accident that changed his life forever. Through counseling and spiritual guidance, Van Wyk was able to turn his life around and find a new purpose in helping others.
Another story of recovery comes from Lindsay Ackermann, who battled addiction for 23 years before finding sobriety. Her addiction to crack cocaine cost her everything – her home, her vehicles, and her savings. Through a combination of rehabilitation, counseling, and hard work, Ackermann was able to rebuild her life and establish a rehabilitation center in Swakopmund to help others struggling with addiction.
Wally Strauss also faced his own struggles with addiction, starting at a young age and nearly ending in tragedy. Through the support of Alcoholics Anonymous and a newfound faith, he was able to overcome his addiction and find a new path in life. Now, he works with others to help them on their own journey to recovery.
The stories of van Wyk, Ackermann, and Strauss are emblematic of the broader issue of substance abuse in Namibia. The Namibian Police have made significant efforts to combat the illegal drug trade, leading to numerous arrests and seizures of illegal substances. However, the problem persists, with cases of substance abuse affecting individuals of all ages and backgrounds.
In the face of these challenges, community educators like Hubert Mukosho are working to raise awareness and provide support for those struggling with addiction. Through education, counseling, and community outreach, they hope to stem the tide of substance abuse and prevent further harm to individuals and communities.
The stories of recovery and resilience shared by van Wyk, Ackermann, and Strauss serve as a reminder of the power of perseverance and the possibility of change. Despite the hardships they faced, they were able to overcome their addictions and rebuild their lives, offering hope to others who may be struggling with similar challenges. Their stories are a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the transformative power of recovery.
Read the original article on The Namibian
