For the next several minutes he and Maggie had talked. Fortin didn’t buy into the Vista plan but for a moment, they were two human beings who’d each found an ear to listen to the hardship in their lives.

When Fortin finally did hang up, he’d reflected on Maggie’s situation and her determination to make her life better. That’s when he’d come to the realization that he had to stop wallowing in self-pity.

Later that week Fortin somehow found the courage to get help.

-Chapter 31-

Southern Alberta

It was a recovery support group for addicts in Lethbridge, modeled after Alcoholics Anonymous.

The group held its meetings in the basement of a community hall.

A woman greeted Fortin at the door. She was in her forties. Her face was etched with a mixture of hard living, determination and dignity. Her name tag said: April.

“Welcome. You’re new?”

“Yes.”

“What’s your first name?”

“Will.”

“Welcome, Will. Get a name tag write down your first name only. Then help yourself to a coffee and have a seat,” April said, her smile was warm, sincere.

Fortin was surprised by the number of people who’d gathered for the meeting; about two dozen covering a range of ages from late teens to late seventies. He tried not to make eye contact with any of them, as they glimpsed his name tag.

Yeah, he was the new guy, fresh blood.

The chairs were positioned in a large circle so everyone could see everyone else and their tags.

April started the meeting with a few administrative announcements, community dances, a potluck and a run for charity. With that done, April then – most likely for Fortin’s benefit – went over the rules.

If they knew it, no one was to ever reveal anyone’s identity. All testimonials, all discussions were anonymous. They remained with the group and did not leave the room. While everyone was invited to share as much of their story as possible, how much and how deep they wanted to go, was a personal choice.

“No one is here to judge. No one is here to criticize. We listen, we support each other and we don’t interrupt. We are all here to help each other overcome our addictions and live a clean and sober life.”

A moment passed then April turned to Fortin.

“Everyone, let’s welcome Will, he’s our newest member in the group.”

“Welcome, Will,” the others in the group said.

“Will,” April said. “You’re safe here, you can listen and you can share at any point. If you wish to speak signal me.”

Fortin nodded and the meeting commenced with people talking and sharing experiences. He was taken aback at how candid and honest people appeared to be with their stories, revealing intimate details about blacking out, suicide attempts, abuse, every kind of shameful act imaginable.