Jad and Jess met in a less than ideal environment, a residential rehab facility in Florida. After rehab, Jess impulsively moved from Chicago to Pennsylvania to be with Jad. They eloped after three months of knowing each other. Unfortunately, they continued to live in addiction, as Jad relapsed in sexual sin behaviors. To cope, Jess quickly turned to alcohol and other drugs, despite her professional career in the field of mental health. These behaviors eventually led to a serious suicide attempt. But, God uses all things for our good (Romans 8.28) and, after much heartbreak and struggle, their story has become one of hope, redemption, and new life.

Jad finally found freedom from sexual addiction by having a relationship with Jesus Christ. For over fourteen months, he lived in community at a residential treatment facility for men with sexual sin issues in Kentucky. Upon completion, he relocated to Oregon. Then, after eight years of employment in emergency medical services, where he engaged in many sexual behaviors, he surrendered his certification as a paramedic. He began a new career in supply chain logistics, in which he is not only successful, but also finds fulfilling. He has been involved with 423 Men since the summer of 2017, in which he is currently a co-leader. Jad loves to read, enjoys the outdoor activities Oregon provides, and has also grown a pretty magnificent beard.

A few months after Jad entered into treatment, Jess began her program at Adult & Teen Challenge, also a residential Christian treatment program. After completing twelve months of treatment and living apart from her husband for sixteen months, God restored their marriage in miraculous ways. God also resurrected her career as a mental health therapist and she is close to obtaining her license in Oregon. She specializes in trauma and is trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy. Jess is currently working on becoming a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor as well.

Life has again become full of joy and celebration, as Jad and Jess welcomed their daughter, Joey, into the world this past November. Additionally, Jess celebrates four years of sobriety this month. She has been fiercely supportive of Jad since the beginning of his involvement with 423 Men, and Jess is currently a support leader for the new 423 Sisters group. She enjoys coffee, analyzing personalities, and spending time with her parents in Bend.

Jad and Jess have found that being vulnerable and transparent with each other, as well as with others, has helped them both in their continued journey of recovery. They look forward to sharing their story with you on January 11th at our monthly 423 Leadership meeting. You will receive hope, comfort, and validation by the grace and glory of God. Healing is possible. There is hope.