A battle to recovery from opioid addiction

The opioid crisis claims the lives of more than 115 people a day in the United States, according to The National Institute of Drug Abuse.

Ismael Solis, who was raised in Mexicali, Baja California, said he struggled with a two-year battle with opioid addiction. He was now able to get out of the vicious cycle that began following the passing of his grandmother.

“My grandmother was the woman who raised me. I would always spend my summers with her and when she passed away from cancer, that’s when everything started for me,” said Solis.

At the age of 25, Ismael landed in the hospital where he was introduced to opioids.

“When I was in the hospital, every 15 minutes I would hit the button for stronger doses. I got used to it and I would panic when I didn’t have it in my system. Mine was more medical-based. For the first six months when I was out of the hospital, I couldn’t be left alone. I would take those more pills to ease my pain.” said Solis.

Ismael was caught in the cycle of addiction for nearly two years before realizing that the reason he started with his addiction would be what helped him stay alive.

“I always think back to what would my grandmother say and that she wouldn’t have ever wanted to see me this way,” said Solis.

If you or anyone you know is in need of help or immediate assistance you can call the Hope Inc. at (928) 783-8747.