Help Machiel Rebuild His Life

Hello,

My name is Machiel, and I am reaching out for support during one of the most challenging times in my life. I've faced many struggles but always tried to move forward and grow. Today, I find myself at a breaking point and need your help to rebuild my life.

For over a decade, I battled addiction to cannabis, alcohol, and drugs. However, I managed to turn my life around and became sober on my own. To prove my commitment, I spent a year voluntarily attending outpatient services and providing regular drug tests. I also found purpose through caring for animals after losing my beloved dog during that time.

Sadly, life threw even more hardships my way. I lost a close friend and colleague to suicide, and a child I had been working with in aftercare tragically passed away. Despite these losses, I pushed forward, became a qualified social worker, and met a wonderful woman who brought light back into my life. For the past five years, I have been a proud stepfather to her children, trying to build a stable and loving family.

Recently, while studying a university course on addiction and codependency, I had a deep realization about my past behaviors and the root of my struggles. However, ongoing pressures have taken their toll, including conflicts with the children’s biological father and judgment from people in my life who cannot see beyond my past. These challenges overwhelmed me, and I turned to unhealthy coping mechanisms.

Over the last two years, I’ve fallen into destructive habits, gambling and drinking away approximately $70,000. This behavior has devastated my finances, and I now face an economic collapse. Within weeks, my debts will spiral into collections, and I will lose any financial stability I’ve worked so hard to create. I own a home but cannot refinance due to my current financial situation.

I deeply regret my mistakes and take full responsibility for my actions. I have stopped drinking again and am committed to rebuilding my life, but I cannot do this alone. I am asking for your help to overcome this financial crisis and give me a chance to start over. Your support will allow me to stabilize my situation, continue being a positive role model for the children, and move forward with the lessons I’ve learned.

Every contribution, no matter the size, brings me closer to regaining control of my life and proving that change is possible. Thank you for taking the time to read my story and for any help you can offer.

With gratitude,

Machiel