The Sanca Phoenix House in Martindale has been open since 1970 and providing rehabilitation for people who abuse substances. In December last year, it was reported that the Phoenix House had to close its doors due to financial restraints and the low subsidies from the state.
Thanks to the kind-heartedness of a former addict who was rehabilitated at Sanca Phoenix House in Aucklandpark, the Phoenix House reopened its doors on 18 February at the same address in Martindale. Nickolas Chapman from Dubai said that for some reason he ended up at the Phoenix House for substance abuse in December of 2007. “I never wanted to hear that I was the problem until I came here. They made me realise that I was my own biggest problem,” said Chapman.
An emotional Chapman said that the people from Phoenix House became his friends and when he heard that they were in trouble, he immediately made a plan. “I own a film company in Dubai and sold it in order to buy the Phoenix House.” He explained that to transform the Phoenix House from Sanca-owned to privatly owned is quite a process and should be completely privately owned in April.
The grand re-opening treated guests to a chef’s spread and speeches from two rehabilitated speakers. John Vlismas, a South African stand-up-comedian had people laughing over the very serious matter of substance abuse. “It is great that this place is not considered as a boutique rehab centre, it is affordable to anyone who needs it,” said Vlismas.
Kabelo Mabalane has been sober for 14 years and said that it is thanks to the 12-step programme of the Phoenix House that he has been able to beat the addiction.
Details: Phoenix House, 011 673 0400.
