MM
Michael Martinez
Apr 3, 2026
On February 5, I went to the emergency room for an eye injury—but what I didn’t realize was that it would become the moment that saved my life.
After 32 years of addiction to crack, cocaine, methamphetamines, and alcohol, and four years of being homeless, I had finally reached a point where I couldn’t keep living the way I was. I knew, deep down, that I needed help.
I had almost nothing—just the clothes on my back. But somehow, by the grace of God, I had insurance I didn’t even know I had. I made a call to a previous treatment center, and even though they couldn’t take me, they didn’t give up on me—they connected me to Great Oaks.
From the moment Great Oaks heard my story, they moved with urgency and compassion. All they asked from me was something so simple, yet so powerful: willingness.
On February 10th they arranged everything. A plane ticket from Lubbock to Houston. And when I arrived(Feb.11th), someone was there waiting for me. I wasn’t just received—I was welcomed with open arms.
Walking through those doors, I felt something I hadn’t felt in a long time… I felt safe. I felt seen. I felt like maybe my life wasn’t over after all.
During my 45 days there, I experienced a level of care and love that I didn’t even know existed. The staff wasn’t just doing a job—they genuinely cared. Many of them had once been where I was. They understood the pain, the struggle, the hopelessness—but they also showed me what recovery could look like.
They didn’t see me as my past. They saw me as someone worth saving.
My medical condition was taken seriously every step of the way. The nurses and doctors were attentive, compassionate, and consistent. The counselors and therapists took the time to teach in a way that truly made sense—nothing felt rushed or confusing. For the first time in a long time, I was able to understand myself.
And when it came time to leave, they didn’t just send me out into the world—they prepared me for it. They made sure I had a plan, structure, and support so I wouldn’t have to face life alone again.
Great Oaks didn’t just help me get sober. They helped me believe that I could live again.
If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction—no matter how long or how far gone it may seem—please know that there is hope. I am living proof of that.
I would give this place 100 stars if I could.
But you have to be willing.
That one decision—to say “yes” to help—can change everything.