From Heroin to Hope: Dustin Garrett’s Story of Redemption
March or Die with Jeremy Stalnecker
In a world filled with stories of pain, regret, and hopelessness, Dustin Garrett’s journey is a shining reminder that no one is ever too far gone for redemption. On this episode of the March or Die show, host Jeremy Stalnecker welcomes Dustin to share a story that is as raw as it is redemptive—one that takes us from the depths of addiction and abortion to the heights of forgiveness, healing, and purpose.
Table of Contents
A Life Derailed at Fifteen
Dustin’s descent began early. At just 15 years old, he and his girlfriend were faced with an unexpected pregnancy. Under pressure from their parents, they chose abortion—an act that would have lifelong repercussions. What initially felt like relief soon gave way to deep emotional pain, guilt, and confusion. That pain would lead Dustin down a path of drug addiction that escalated quickly, culminating in full-blown heroin use by the age of 16.
“I was chasing pleasure with no restraint,” Dustin recalls. “Anything that gave me even a little escape—I abused it.”
Brokenness and the Cry for Help
Years of addiction destroyed Dustin’s relationships, reputation, and future. He found himself repeatedly in jail, isolated and hopeless. It was in one of those jail cells—after admitting to thoughts of suicide—that Dustin hit his lowest point.
But it was also where everything began to change.
“I cried out to Jesus,” he says, “and for the first time, I didn’t just want to escape the consequences—I wanted to change.”
A Long Road to Recovery
Dustin’s recovery wasn’t overnight. After years of manipulation and self-deception, it took the intervention of his father, who gave him a choice: get help or go to jail. Dustin entered a long-term, Christ-centered recovery program through a rescue mission. There, for the first time, godly men opened the Bible with him, showed him truth, and discipled him in faith.
“That season, even though I was homeless, was the most joy-filled time of my life,” Dustin says.
He spent two years in the program, then went on to Bible college. Despite no high school diploma or money, God opened doors through the letter of a rescue mission director who believed in him.
New Life, New Legacy
Today, Dustin is a husband, a father, a worship leader at Liberty Bible Church in Illinois, and a leader at Samaritan Ministries—a healthcare sharing ministry that gives Christians an alternative to funding services like abortion. He’s found healing not only for himself, but also plays a role in helping others find it too.
“I once believed that having a child would ruin my life. But the truth is, the abortion is what brought ruin. And the child would have brought life.”
Speaking to Men in Silence
One of the most powerful parts of Dustin’s story is his willingness to speak openly about the emotional and spiritual effects abortion had on him as a young man. It’s a conversation that’s often left out of the national dialogue, but one that desperately needs a voice.
“There’s always a man involved, and the pain is real. We need to talk about it. We need to bring it into the light.”
Marching When It’s Easier to Die
The March or Die podcast is built around a simple premise: when life gives you every reason to give up, you must find the strength to march forward. Dustin Garrett is living proof of that. His life is a testimony that no matter the choices of your past, God’s grace is sufficient. You are not defined by your darkest moments—but by what you allow God to do with them.
Final Words
If you or someone you love is dealing with addiction, abortion regret, or feels stuck in hopelessness, know this: there is a way forward. You don’t have to fight alone. Find a church. Reach out for help. Talk to someone who’s been there.
And as Dustin so beautifully reminds us—healing is real. Hope is possible. And your past does not get the final word.
Resources:
📍 Learn more about Samaritan Ministries
📍 Connect with Liberty Bible Church
📍 Watch or listen to this episode on the March or Die YouTube Channel
