Grace Recovery Ballito makes inroads in the fight against substance abuse

In just over a year since opening its doors, Grace Recovery Ballito has provided significant support and hope to individuals battling with addiction.

With the sobering realisation that seven out of eight addicts in need of help never receive it, the local support group founded by Kelly and Barry Pretorius in March last year has witnessed amazing journeys of recovery.

The couple’s partnership with Project Exodus has been instrumental in their success.

Project Exodus is committed to delivering innovative and effective strategies to address substance dependence, addictive pornography and other compulsive disorders.

Kelly emphasised the importance of tackling the disturbing prevalence of cocaine, crystal meth and heroin addiction in Ballito. She said these drugs are easily accessible here.

Grace Recovery also focuses strongly on the often overlooked issue of alcohol abuse, which can lead to shame, family dysfunction and heartbreak.

Kelly said society’s acceptance and even encouragement of alcohol consumption make detection and intervention challenging.

At the core of their programme is the Life Recovery Plan (LRP), which serves as a roadmap of addicts’ journey to freedom. The LRP encompasses defining a vision for recovery, identifying accountability partners, recognising triggers and developing effective strategies to manage them.

Engaging with recovery groups and immersing oneself in a culture of recovery have proven to significantly contribute to sustainable rehabilitation outcomes, Kelly said.

Testimonies of group members shed light on the profound impact of the support they receive. One member, a former military man, shared his decades-long battle with alcohol addiction which started during his time in the army.

After countless attempts at rehab and meetings, he found solace in the Project Exodus group at Grace Ballito.

With fresh determination and the mantra “If you don’t take that first drink, you can’t get drunk” and “One drink is too many, but twenty are not enough,” he recently celebrated 198 days of sobriety.

Grace Recovery Ballito also provides a safe space for parents seeking guidance. One couple shared their decade-long struggle with their son who battled addiction.

Joining Grace Recovery groups enabled them to better understand addiction and embark on their own recovery journey. They acquired the means to manage their emotions and interactions with their son. They now offer support not only to their own child but also to others.

One can reach Grace Recovery Ballito at 074 923 9543 or gracerecoveryballito@gmail.com.

The support group meets every Tuesday at Grace Family Church at 6.30pm.

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