BECOMING addicted to the drug ice isn’t something anyone plans to do.

Kicking the habit poses a world of challenges. Two men who bravely took that plunge graduated from the Victory House Rehabilitation Program in Terranora on Sunday.

Father-of-three Mark Spooner, who relocated from Moree to take part in the program, had been struggling with addiction for 35 years.

“That culminated in the breakdown of my marriage which brought on a psychotic episode and led me to suicidal (behaviour) and depression,” Mr Spooner said.

When he finally tried to get help, many rehab centres were at capacity and he was on the brink of giving up.

“A drug counsellor basically just gave me a whole bunch of rehab phone numbers to ring,” Mr Spooner said.

“But nowhere in NSW could I find a bed for between three to six months,” he said.

“The very last person... was about to hang up, and she said ‘Hang on, I’ve got a number’. I was just about to give up.”

With little hope left, Mr Spooner called the number and Victory House co- ordinator Mark Johnston answered.

Mr Spooner’s 14 months in the program have had a transformative effect on his body and soul, and given him optimism for the future.

His journey from here on is no walk in the park, with the biggest risk of relapse often occuring after leaving rehabilitation.

But he was confident he would stay strong, particularly because he had re-established relationships with his teenage daughters.

Program director David Nahi said he was proud and excited for Mr Spooner and Stuart Russell, who both graduated on Sunday.

“We’re really proud of these guys and also really excited about the future that lies ahead,” Mr Nahi said.

Discussions have begun with Tweed Shire Council to arrange work experience for participants, with the potential for paid work.

Mr Russell is seeking an apprenticeship to become an electrician.