In our Spring issue of The Messenger, we introduced you to Tom Hounihan, a long-time volunteer at MorningStar Mission and mentor to many in our Men’s 180 Residential Recovery Program. In 2012, Tom was a mentor to a young man named AJ. This is AJ’s story.
AJ had been addicted to heroin and pain pills for 11 years. “It was very painful physically, emotionally and spiritually. There was a lot of heartbreak,” he admits—not only for himself, but for his family.
AJ’s wife, Serena, had stood by him as long as she could, but she eventually asked him to leave. “I had to give him to God,” she explains. AJ lived in his van for a short time before coming to MorningStar Mission.
“I had been in and out of rehab for years,” AJ recalls, “and I knew I had to make this work. I soaked everything up and made the most of it.”
During his six months at MorningStar Mission, AJ developed a close relationship with Tom that continues to this day. He credits Tom’s wisdom as a recovering alcoholic with helping him through the program and maintaining his own sobriety for 13 years.
AJ also tells us MorningStar Mission gave him the time he needed to get better. “A 28-day rehab is not enough,” he says. “I needed half a year to reset, to get into the Word and prepare to live a normal life. By the time I got home, I was ready.”
AJ, Serena, and their two children got involved with their church. The children became active in their youth group, and AJ became a worship leader. For the first time in years, AJ says, “Life got fun!”
Since leaving MorningStar Mission, AJ has followed Tom’s example and mentored several men. Today, he is busy working, serving at his church, and being a husband and father—soon to be a grandfather!
But AJ knows he wouldn’t be where he is today without you. “You saved my life,” he says. “You give people the time and resources they desperately need to get well. You are a light in a dark place.”
If AJ’s story inspired you, consider supporting MorningStar Mission—you can help give others the same chance at hope and healing.
