Troy’s Journey: Finding Hope and Change with Wesley (UPDATED!)

Recently, we had the opportunity to speak with Troy, a remarkable individual whose journey highlights the transformative power of community support and personal resilience. Currently a client of our Special Care Unit (SCU), Troy’s story is an important reminder of how quickly life can change and the incredible strength it takes to rebuild. 

Twelve years ago, Troy unfortunately had a workplace accident that resulted in the loss of his leg, but that isn’t where his experience with homelessness and addiction began. Despite the initial, difficult changes and the physical and emotional toll it took on him, Troy has managed to maintain a positive outlook. “It’s been 12 years now, and I’ve adjusted pretty well,” he reflected. 

Troy’s journey to Wesley began when he was living in a rental home with a roommate. Everything was fine until one day, he found himself locked out, his belongings—including essential medications—denied to him. The experience was terrifying, especially as a diabetic without access to his medication for over a month. 

“I was living in Gage Park, sleeping on benches, using public facilities to clean up. It was a very bad situation,” he recalled.  “Earlier that day I was going downtown, and I saw a fellow on a rock sleeping and thought ‘that’s sad’. And that evening, there I was, out on a rock just like him.” The initial shock of homelessness quickly turned into despair, and Troy coped by drinking heavily—a temporary escape from the harsh reality of life on the streets. 

After months of struggling, Troy learned about Wesley and worked up the courage to reach out. His acceptance into the program marked a turning point in his life. “This is a beautiful place. If you’re looking for help, call. If you want to change, this is where you come,” he advises others, “they’re not going to judge any of us.” He also notes that there aren’t many programs that you can call yourself without a doctor’s referral, which makes Wesley even more accessible. 

Initially filled with anger and frustration from his recent experiences, Troy began to receive support and counselling, particularly in anger management. “It straightened me out. It made me realize, ‘Oh, I’m worth something’. I didn’t feel lonely anymore.” he shared. Troy now has his own room and is surrounded by a community that offers stability, support, and comfort. “I’m doing good now. I have a very clean room, and I take care of it like it’s my own,” he said proudly.  

Troy’s journey hasn’t been without its challenges. He faced difficulties with staff and other residents early on, but he has fostered positive relationships through counselling and a commitment to change. His experience has taught him the importance of resilience and self-awareness. “I realized that if I want to get better, I have to stop the drinking and find new friends who uplift me,” he noted. 

Now, Troy is looking for a place to live so he can officially ‘graduate’ from the SCU to independent living, but it’s a difficult process. Between the cost of rent and needing to find somewhere with space to store the scooter he needs to get around, it’s harder than anticipated. Thankfully, Troy has a positive mindset and a good outlook for his future. “I’m confident I’ll find a place,” he said, his hope and determination an inspiration for all of us.  

When asked what he wishes others understood about the residents of the Wesley Center and those experiencing homelessness, Troy emphasized empathy. “Everyone has their own story. It could happen to anyone,” he said. His experiences have made him more compassionate towards others facing similar struggles. He even takes the time to share food and supplies with those still living on the streets, taking the community support he received and paying it forward. 

Troy’s journey from homelessness and addiction to finding a community and healing at Wesley speaks to his resilience and the importance of support, compassion, and kindness to help those in our community. He believes in the mission of Wesley and hopes that by sharing his story he can inspire positive change. “It’s the kindness of your heart to help somebody. It’s very appreciated and needed to help our world work a little better.” His story underscores the significance of supportive spaces that not only provide shelter but also foster healing and personal growth. 

If you feel compelled to help, we hope you’ll consider donating to Wesley to help us continue and expand our services for individuals like Troy—because everyone deserves a chance to rebuild their life.

Click here to donate today.