Village of Hope graduate begins new addiction-free life in Eston
By Joan Janzen
ESTON — On Sunday, July 12, Calvin Dustyhorn celebrated his graduation from Village of Hope, an addiction treatment centre in Eston. The ceremony, held at Eston Full Gospel Church, brought together family and friends to celebrate the completion of an important milestone.
The 24-year-old was born and raised in Regina alongside two sisters and one brother. He said he had a busy childhood living with his biological family until the age of five.
A new beginning. Calvin Dustyhorn celebrates his graduation from Village of Hope's addiction treatment program on July 12. He plans to remain in Eston as he begins the next chapter of his addiction-free life. PHOTO SUBMITTED
"From there I was in and out of foster homes," he recalled. "I was in three different foster homes before I settled for good. Since I was seven I was raised and loved, but before that I had a rough start in life."
Calvin began using drugs to cope with anxiety and stress. Easy access to drugs and alcohol eventually led to addiction.
Out of desperation, he sought help at Village of Hope to escape what he described as a life-threatening addiction.
"I couldn't hold down a job. I was bored, making dangerous choices and showing anger to my loved ones," he explained.
He arrived in Eston on Sept. 11 of last year. While he was impressed with the facility itself, he admitted his attitude upon arrival was far from positive.
"I was full of rebellion, angry, mad, fighting with staff," he said. "Now I am truly grateful because they didn't give up on me and helped me get the tools to solve my inner pain."
The 10-month residential program required commitment and perseverance. Calvin credits the support he received, along with the opportunities awaiting him after graduation, for helping him stay the course.
"Having all the support in the world and the benefits waiting at the completion of the 10-month program" kept him motivated, he said.
Living on site at Village of Hope provided more than accommodation and meals. It also helped him remain accountable while abstaining from drugs and alcohol. During the program, he worked at several businesses in Eston, gaining both experience and routine.
"After my 10-month program I realized I was worrying about the past, and it was all negative," he said. "I learned to let go and get relief for my heart."
Now that he has completed the program, Calvin plans to remain in Eston and work at the local tire shop. He will continue living in a supportive environment while applying the lessons he learned during treatment.
"They taught me conflict resolution, forgiveness and how to let go of my reckless behaviour," he said.
Calvin now considers Eston a welcoming community where he can begin the next chapter of his life free from addiction.