Guy Felicella Advocates for Recovery and Connection in B.C.

Guy Felicella, a prominent advocate for harm reduction and recovery, shared his powerful journey of addiction and recovery during a recent presentation at the Port Alberni Friendship Centre. Speaking ahead of International Overdose Awareness Day, Felicella opened up about his experiences with drug use, crime, and his time on the Vancouver Police Department‘s most wanted list. His story emphasizes the importance of connection and support in overcoming addiction.

Felicella’s narrative began with a troubled childhood, where he turned to drugs as a coping mechanism. He candidly discussed his repeated attempts at recovery, admitting he excelled at getting sober but struggled to maintain it. His life took a dire turn when he overdosed six times, only to be revived each time. However, it was the love and kindness of others that ultimately played a pivotal role in his recovery journey.

During his talk, Felicella highlighted the significance of human connection. He recalled the twice-yearly visits from his grandmother, who would deliver cards and take him out for meals. Such gestures provided him with hope and a reminder of love amid his struggles. He also shared a touching memory from Christmas Day in 2012, when a stranger offered him coffee and a hug while he slept on the street, an act of compassion that deeply impacted him.

Felicella’s recovery was not just about abstaining from drugs; it involved addressing underlying trauma. A doctor during his final recovery phase helped him reflect on his past and receive a diagnosis for ADHD, allowing him to confront the root causes of his addiction. He credits harm reduction services for saving his life and enabling him to be present for his children.

At the event, Josie Osborne, the Minister of Health and MLA for Mid Island-Pacific Rim, attended to support the community’s efforts in raising awareness about the ongoing drug crisis. She acknowledged the importance of learning from individuals like Felicella, who offer invaluable insights into the lived experience of addiction. Osborne emphasized the necessity for evidence-based policies to address the crisis, recognizing that health care must encompass not just physical health but also mental well-being and cultural identity.

The presentation also stressed the need for compassionate engagement with those struggling with addiction. Co-chair of the Port Alberni Community Action Team, Nina Kossenko-Holm, who has been sober for over a decade, noted that individuals with addiction are more likely to respond positively to those who understand their experiences. She expressed hope that by sharing stories and fostering connections, more people might find the courage to seek help.

Kossenko-Holm highlighted that the event aimed to normalize conversations about addiction and recovery. She expressed satisfaction with the turnout and the community’s willingness to learn about Felicella’s journey and the broader implications of the toxic drug crisis. The team organizes monthly meetings and maintains an active social media presence to raise awareness and combat stigma surrounding addiction.

In the Alberni-Clayoquot area, the number of drug poisoning deaths underscores the urgency of the conversation. Since 2016, 172 people have lost their lives to drug-related incidents, with nine deaths reported since April 2025 and 24 deaths occurring in 2024. These statistics reveal the deep impact of the crisis on the community and highlight the importance of harm reduction strategies.

As his presentation concluded, Felicella emphasized the message of hope for those currently battling addiction. “You aren’t alone in your struggles,” he said, urging the audience to consider the humanity behind addiction. “If you saw a six-year-old kid struggling on the street, you’d do anything to help them. That kid is now 25, and in the same spot.”

Felicella’s story serves as a reminder of the power of connection, compassion, and community in the fight against addiction.