Tony never imagined he would need support from an organization like DVSSP. In fact, he only learned about their services through his mother, who had attended group meetings and therapy sessions. “She inspired me to see her therapist myself—particularly Roxanne,” he shared. That one decision would change the course of his life.
Through telehealth therapy, Tony began the difficult process of healing. “I actually used those quite often for a number of months to work up the courage to see myself thrive,” he said. But the biggest challenge wasn’t just processing the trauma—it was learning to believe in himself again.
“I was conditioned to think I was nothing,” Tony admitted. “The hardest thing I’ve had to overcome is realizing that I matter—that there are people who care about me, even when I don’t feel like they do. Whether it’s a friend, a stranger on the sidewalk, or the people at DVSSP, I had to learn that I have a chance, just like everyone else, to be included, accepted, and loved.”
That realization was life-changing. Before therapy, Tony couldn’t picture a future for himself. “I never imagined I’d be able to move forward. But now, I believe in myself. I can see a future where I go beyond my own expectations.”
When asked where he would be without DVSSP, Tony hesitated. “I don’t think it would be a very good place,” he admitted. “If I never reached out, I probably would have lost all sense of self.”
Now, Tony is ready to share his story—not just for himself, but for others who feel lost and alone. “This program saves people’s lives. It gives them hope when they never expected to see the light at the end of the tunnel. Even if someone isn’t ready to speak up, it’s important for them to know that people care and that help is out there.”
For Tony, therapy was more than just a service—it was a turning point. “Roxanne was so understanding and so inspirational. She pushed me forward, helped me feel like a person again, and kept me from falling apart.”
Tony’s journey is proof that healing is possible—and that DVSSP is a lifeline for those in need. By supporting DVSSP through planned giving, you can ensure that others like Tony have access to life-changing services, no matter their circumstances.
“I’m super grateful for this program,” Tony said. “And I love that I was able to do it from anywhere, regardless of my income. It’s pretty awesome that you guys do this.”
