Dreams become a reality as teens recovering from addiction graduate from high school

BOSTON — With little pomp and a lot of circumstance, the William J Ostiguy class of 2017 accepted their diplomas today.

It was solely for six high school students recovering from addiction.  The day marked an end of one journey on their long road to recovery.

Tucked away in Theater 5 at the AMC Loews Boston Common was the commencement, where a small but emotional graduation ceremony of family, friends, and faculty gathered.

"They're some of the strongest young men and women you could ever hope to meet,” said John McCarthy, a recovery counselor at the school. "These kids have come from absolute chaos, tragedy, despair to nothing but opportunity and promise. Most importantly, they've become people who are proud of who they are.”

Ostiguy is a recovery high school, meaning all the students are struggling with addiction. It's one of five recovery schools in the state that offer a safe learning environment for students trying to stay sober.

“I didn't think I was going to live to 18 years old.  All of my friends are dead, all of my old friends have overdosed. I shouldn't be standing hear quite frankly,” said Ryan Bacher, a graduating senior planning to attend Suffolk University next semester with another of his classmates.

Each of the graduates had a chance to thank the people who stood behind them through this journey. Bacher choked backed tears as read his letter in front of the audience.

"You’re the one who gave me life and raised me to be the man I am today. I'm forever in your debt. I will never be able to repay you because not only did you give me life, you saved my life many times," he said as he referenced his mother in the audience..

For these graduates, the road ahead is paved in uncertainty. Today's triumph against all odds has them looking forward to the future.

Cox Media Group