SANELE Wanda (46) lost the most important years of his life because of alcohol.
The KwaSanti resident (Mariannhill) said he was an alcoholic for 24 years and lost everything dear to him.
“I had already been introduced to alcohol when I started working in 1994. I started drinking more as I was now earning an income.”
He said around 1997, things got worse and his alcohol addiction became uncontrollable, which resulted in him losing his job in 2000.
“I became a different person and after losing my job, I could not hide what I had become and was vulnerable.”
Wanda’s situation escalated to a point where he eventually became homeless.
In 2016, Wanda decided to seek help at the Chatsworth Recovery Centre.
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He also received help from the Amanzimtoti Community Upliftment Project (AMCUP).
Remembering his dreams was what motivated Wanda to seek help, even though it was not easy.
“I had big hopes for my life, I wanted to study law but all my hopes and dreams perished.”
Wanda said alcoholism is a very serious illness which people take lightly.
“The thing is, you do not only mess up your own life but the people close to you also suffer. I destroyed my relationships. I felt very empty, I was like a walking zombie.
“I have three children and I barely played the role of a father. I want to fix all of that,” he said.
Wanda is slowly claiming his life back as he has managed to get his ID and matric certificate which he had to reapply for.
“I have been sober for a year and a half now.”
“I have learnt that it is never too late, I still want to pursue my dream of becoming a lawyer. I hope to get assistance and get a job to get my life back on track,” he said.
He said that by sharing his story, he hopes that people can learn from him and not make the same mistakes.
“Life is short and precious, we need to prioritise people and especially those who love and care for us.”
Anyone who would like to assist Wanda in reaching his dream, can contact him on 063 368 1675.
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