There is likely no greater pain than that of losing a child: it carries with it a deep and abiding grief, an unknowable loneliness.
Although Tyrone had pre-existing struggles with alcohol before the 2014 murder of his twin son back home in New Orleans, that tragedy has become a defining moment of his testimony.
"I had stopped drinking for a while,” he said. “When my son got killed, I used that as an excuse to drink again … I turned to the bottle for comfort. I turned to the bottle to solve all my problems.”
What began to numb the pain became the cause of more grief. Tyrone spent the next decade sliding deeper into darkness. His drinking and unprocessed grief — the raw and ceaseless trauma of his loss — took a toll on his marriage, his relationships, and his health.
"When I drink, I isolate,” he said. “I say things I don’t mean. It destroys everything around me.”
A Turning Point at Springs Rescue Mission
It was at his lowest point that Tyrone found his way to Springs Rescue Mission.
That “rock bottom” looked like job loss; it looked like separation from his wife; it looked like homelessness. It was cold and Tyrone knew where he could find a meal and a warm bed. Anything was better than sleeping under a bridge.
Less than a week later (and after some convincing from staff) Tyrone entered SRM’s addiction recovery program. He had hit rock bottom— and now it was time to embrace God’s loving arms.
"God has shown me that I am loved, I am adequate, I am somebody," he said. "When you trust in God with all your being, amazing things can happen for you.”
For the first time in years, Tyrone began to rediscover a sense of self-worth, understanding that his identity wasn’t tied to his addiction. He learned that recovery wasn’t just about stopping the consumption of alcohol; it was about healing his heart, mind, and relationships.
As he leaned into his faith and newfound community, Tyrone began to heal. He learned to embrace the love and support around him, not only from God, but also from the staff and fellow guests at Springs Rescue Mission. He met others who were on similar journeys and began to feel a sense of peace and joy he hadn’t experienced in years.
"You realize that peace isn’t just an expression on your face, it’s something that comes from within," he said. “This joy is something that can only really come from God.”
Finding Purpose Through Service
Part of Tyrone's recovery has involved giving back. He’s worked in various roles at the Mission, first receiving and processing donations, later transitioning into custodial work.
"We clean the premises to make it a welcoming, safe space for those coming in, especially those who are homeless and seeking help," Tyrone said.
His work gives him purpose, and it’s a way for him to show appreciation for the hope and opportunity he’s found at Springs Rescue Mission.
"The people here have shown me kindness and they help build me up," Tyrone said. "And now, I want to do the same for others. I want to show them that God is the way. It’s not about preaching —it’s about living with love and empathy."
A Message of Hope and Gratitude
Tyrone’s journey hasn’t been easy. He’s faced immense loss, dealt with addiction, and struggled with homelessness. But through his time at Springs Rescue Mission, he’s discovered a new path.
"The road to recovery is not easy, but when you give it to God and set goals for your life, you can make it," he said. “Just give it a chance — give yourself that chance.”
To the donors who support Springs Rescue Mission, Tyrone offers his heartfelt thanks.
"Your donations are helping people like me get back on our feet," he said. "Without this place, I wouldn’t be here today. You are providing more than just shelter or food — you’re providing a chance ata new life."
As Tyrone continues his journey, he remains focused on helping others, sharing his story, and showing those around him that recovery is possible.
"You can make it," he says. "Alcohol or drugs are not who you are, it’s just something you’ve gone through. There is life after addiction, and there is always hope."
