Tracy grew up in a close-knit. God-centered family, with daily devotions and church four times a week. But, desperate to be accepted, he began smoking marijuana at 13 and drinking at 15. He began skipping school and staying out all night - even stealing from his parents to buy drugs.

After dropping out of school, Tracy went into the army. Still drinking heavily, he failed basic training twice and was discharged. He knew he was out of control but it was only the beginning of over 20 years on the roller coaster of substance abuse.

Returning to Omaha, Tracy got married and worked to support his wife and new stepdaughter, plus the two children they had together. He tried to get clean and sober at times, but his addictions only grew worse. By the time his second child was born, he couldn't hold down a job. Finally, his wife gave him an ultimatum - and he chose drugs and alcohol.

Separated from his family, Tracy was miserable, but he hadn't’t hit bottom yet. That came when he stole from the store where he worked and ended up in prison. Locked up, with nowhere to run… despondent… lonely… Tracy took a good look at his life and didn't like what he saw. So he talked to an old friend: God. Pleading with Him to take away his urge for drugs and alcohol, Tracy vowed never to go back to them again.

Tracy was released from prison in July 2004, and came to Open Door Mission’s New Life Recovery programs . he’s determined to persevere and graduate from the programs . He attends Bible. 12-step and life skills classes every day and participates in our Christ-centered, Bible-based programs . He is working on his relationships with his wife and children and goes to church regularly. Grateful for these opportunities, Tracy says.

He still has a long way to go, but with the support of ODM and caring friends like you, his chances of making it look very good!

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