Chris has been part of our Active Choices project for the last four years. He began attending the sessions as quite a shy participant who found the activity of football was supporting his abstinence from drugs and alcohol. Now, he is a dedicated volunteer on the same project that supported him through his most difficult times.

Here’s Chris’ story in his own words.

When I joinied Active Choices back in 2017 I was struggling with a few things. My main problem was smoking cannabis and for a long time I didn't enjoy it, but I was stuck in a cycle.

I began attending Active Choices’ Thursday football session at Willows Sports Centre. That one day in the week was enough to break my habit as I would make sure I hadn't had any or I wouldn't have been able to play.

It also gave me something active to look forward to every week, as well as meeting others that were going through similar problems. I was then invited to go on trips away with the other members and play against other similar programmes across the country.

This led me to focus on my fitness and I eventually gave up smoking all together. Although I ended up with a few injuries that set me back slightly, I feel that Active Choices is the sole reason I am proposing to attempt the Derby 10K run later this year.

I believe my new-found love for running and fitness is a direct result of what Active Choices did for me and I just want to express my thanks for everyone involved as it really did change my life for the better. 

Chris is not just taking on the Derby 10K to show his appreciation for the project. He currently volunteers at several weekly sessions, including our men’s mental health Team Talk project, supports teams who are travelling to play others from across the country as part of our recovery programme and is a huge support to other clients on the programme. He is well-known and highly regarded in the local recovery network and treatment circle for his positive attitude and inspirational recovery.

Thank you, Chris!

Active CHoices