It’s heartbreaking, although sometimes heartwarming, to see drug addicts break down, says Adult & Teen Challenge (Fiji) direct care supervisor Avesi Kalokalo.

Reflecting on his experiences, Mr Kalokalo said he joined the centre to play his part in creating a better society by helping change lives.

“There have been times, on a personal basis, to see them break down, sometimes they’re sharing their problems,” Mr Kalokalo said.

“It’s heartbreaking, but more heartwarming, and that’s when I know we’re doing something right. Hardened men, hardened characters from broken families and out on the streets, to cry and to be emotional, it’s really satisfying.”

The centre’s executive director, Reverend Hemraj Mangal, said so far, they’ve treated 21 drug addicts who’ve recovered via their programs.

Mr Mangal said they’ve monitored those who had recovered since July last year, and most of them appeared to have shunned their former life.

He said their eagerness to change was one of the biggest advantages of their recovery process.

“The addiction recovery at the moment depends on what stage this person has come to,” he said.

“The biggest obstacle is, does that person want to change?

“If there is a desire inside, that the person wants to change, that he’s fed up with his old life, that is the real plus.

“So, we really don’t find problems with those who have come with a genuine heart to change, a genuine consent to change.”