Kamila Wojtula

Life Stories

Alcohol was present in my life from the day I was born. I could actually say that I was born drunk as my Mother was taken to hospital from a squat where she had been drinking for months.

My mother had been complaining about her liver and kidney, saying that they were going to “blow up”. After being examined, the Doctor told my Mum “You’re in labour” and I was born weighing less than a small bag of sugar.

My Mum and Dad were both alcoholics and when I was about 6/7 they both died as a result of their alcohol misuse. I was adopted by my aunt and my life then became like a Cinderella story.

I met my husband, got married and we had two beautiful children; my son who’s 18 now and daughter who’s 16.

My marriage started to fall apart though as my husband and I struggled. I was taking amphetamine and drinking every single day. It was like my breakfast, lunch and dinner for 10 long years.

My husband took my son and moved out, while I lived with my daughter. I ended up in jail for a month after I caused a car crash with my daughter as a passenger. God must have been watching us that day because we are still alive.

I was banned from driving and sent to jail after being charged for dangerous driving and driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol. My daughter went to stay with my husband and at that point I decided to end my life but thankfully, I was unsuccessful.

Someone told me about a rehab for women and I googled it and came across Benaiah. I was invited for an interview and a month later I entered the centre. It was beautiful place and as soon as I arrived, I could feel a real peace there.

I met lots of incredible people. Staff were there for me 24/7 and really cared for me and my family. I actually call the staff God’s helpers, as they are the most caring and loving people. I received tons of support, love and assurance that I could get through the program and live a better life. Ashley and the team always reminded me that I have worth, I am strong, loved and I can do amazing things.

I successfully completed the programme on July 1, 2024, and my life has completely changed. I am finally happy and have amazing relationships with my children and husband.

Unexpectedly I got offered a new job as a Support Worker for Care4You and, after passing all the courses, I am now supporting vulnerable people. I’m also now in the process of getting my new driving licence.

It really is just amazing how my life has been transformed.

Entering Benaiah was the best decision for me and my family and I will forever be grateful and thankful for what Teen Challenge has done for me.