From addiction to inspiration: A CFCC student’s journey of resilience and redemption
Wilmington native Michael King’s life took a dark turn when he began drinking at 14. In 2019, he faced end-stage liver failure and struggled to find a treatment center until he discovered Coastal Horizons. After completing their training program in just three months, he presented his certificate for organ transplant consideration. Unfortunately, COVID-19 emerged, creating a ripple effect of delays and further prolonging Michael’s wait for a chance at a new life.
FROM ADVERSITY TO EMPATHY IN PEER SUPPORT
Despite this setback, Michael’s former therapist recognized his potential and asked him to share his story through motivational speaking with Coastal Horizons client members. His passion for counseling emerged, inspiring him to become a peer support specialist, where he could provide guidance and inspiration to others battling addiction.
“Empathy is hard to fake,” Michael commented. “You can feel sorry for someone, but it’s not the same thing as empathy. Being able to understand what a person is going through is difficult to do without some frame of reference, and that’s one thing I can do.”
But Michael overlooked a vital prerequisite — a high school diploma. Fortunately, his search for a solution led him directly to CFCC. Enrolling in CFCC’s adult high school program, Michael not only obtained his long-awaited high school diploma but also excelled in all his classes. Armed with this remarkable achievement, he secured his peer support specialist certification.
FINANCIAL SUPPORT AND ACADEMIC SUCCESS
While Michael continued his fulfilling work with Coastal Horizons, he received an unexpected phone call from Sarah Molina, CFCC’s Economic and Workforce Career Services Coordinator. Sarah reached out to inquire about Michael’s plans and discovered his interest in a drug counselor course. It was then that she introduced him to the associate degree program in Human Services Technology with a concentration in Addiction and Recovery Services.
Initially concerned about the financial feasibility of attending college, Michael shared his apprehension with Sarah. To help him navigate the process, Sarah scheduled an appointment with Michael to complete his FAFSA application. To his delight, he qualified for the Pell Grant and promptly registered for the spring 2022 semester.
Eager to further secure his educational journey, Michael also applied for scholarships through the CFCC Foundation. He was awarded two $1,000 scholarships to help offset the cost of tuition, books, and other expenses. In addition, he served as a work-study, which provided him with additional money for school.
THE VALUE OF AN ASSOCIATE DEGREE
Within two semesters at CFCC, Michael’s remarkable academic achievements led to his induction into Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) honor society and a special invitation to join CFCC’s Honors Program. Recognizing the value of education, Michael appreciates the transformative impact CFCC has had on his life.
While initially content with his role as a peer support specialist, CFCC has opened doors to even greater opportunities for him. With a specialized associate degree, Michael can confidently progress to the next level and build a strong foundation for future success.
“I do think, amongst some professionals, there’s still a little stigma attached to having an associate degree,” Michael stated. “But in my opinion, having an associate degree is a lot more practical because it can give you that skill set in one specific field.”
His hard work has earned him acceptance letters from prestigious institutions such as Duquesne University, Georgetown University, and the Palo Alto School of Psychology in California, paving the way for an elevated level of success and achievement.
HEALING, EDUCATION, AND PAYING IT FORWARD
Michael’s relentless dedication and perseverance are yielding fruitful results as his health steadily improves. The once-debilitating condition of his liver no longer holds him back from advancing toward the next phase of his educational journey — selecting the university where he will pursue a bachelor’s degree in psychology.
“I don’t think I would have been able to do this without CFCC,” Michael said. “I have received training from excellent instructors. My grades reflect their teaching skills which are allowing me to take this to a higher level.”
Michael’s pursuit of education, from obtaining his peer support specialist certification to earning his associate degree, propelled him toward a brighter future. With doors opening to renowned universities and a field poised for growth, his story exemplifies the potential for personal redemption and the capacity to make a positive impact on others’ lives.
As he continues his educational journey, Michael embodies the belief that with dedication and a renewed sense of purpose, one can overcome adversity and create a meaningful and fulfilling life.
“I can’t pay back the people that helped me, but I think it’s necessary for me to be able to pay it forward and hopefully prevent people from getting in the situation that I found myself in,” shared Michael. “And maybe with a little luck and some hard work and determination, they can do what I’m doing right now.”
