H Metro

I WAS DYING, NOW I’M ALIVE AND WELL

. . . ex-drug addict shares his inspiring story

- Mangaliso Kabulika

IN the last THREE months Tinashe Mapirazuva has not touched mbanje, Broncleer and crystal meth in what has been a spirited battle to save his life.

There was a time when all this was part of his daily menu.

Tinashe (30) from Aspindale Park, who is unemployed, started taking mbanje in high school after being introduced to it by a friend at a sports event.

He was later introduced to Broncleer and crystal meth.

Tinashe’s addiction intensifie­d at university, leading to strained relationsh­ips and falling grades. He resorted to stealing, or lying to buy drugs, resulting in arrests, violence and failed dreams.

It was at this point Tinashe realised he had hit rock bottom and needed to change.

“I was always getting arrested, beaten up by mobs and I also failed to complete my Masters’ degree.

“I acknowledg­ed my condition and my mistakes which had virtually taken control of my life, health and relationsh­ips,” said Tinashe.

He eventually sought help to quit drugs.

“The biggest challenge I faced was being open with my friends about the decision I had made.

“At one point, I took crystal meth with a friend because I couldn’t say no.

“I was afraid of what they would say or think about me.

“Eventually, I developed the courage to tell them that I had decided to quit.”

He believes recovery is always possible as long as there is real intention and effort to change.

“Recovery is possible and always available. There is always a chance to restore or get rescued only if there is real intention.

“Sobriety will not come to you and no one can deliver it to you except yourself,” he said.

 ?? ?? TINASHE Mapirazuva
TINASHE Mapirazuva

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