Help Malachyte Complete His Journey to Recovery

Hello there,

Malachyte is currently in detox at Mountainside Treatment Center in Connecticut, and I’m reaching out to our community for help during this critical time in his recovery journey.

For the past six years, Malachyte has been struggling with addiction to Benzedrex - a substance that many people have never heard of, but one that has nearly destroyed his life.

The Hidden Danger: Benzedrex

Benzedrex is an over-the-counter nasal decongestant inhaler that anyone can buy at any pharmacy or convenience store. It seems harmless - it’s legal, it’s on the shelf next to cold medicines. But when abused, it contains propylhexedrine, a powerful stimulant that produces effects similar to methamphetamine.

The FDA has issued warnings about the serious dangers of Benzedrex abuse, including:

- Heart attacks and irregular heartbeat

- Dangerous blood pressure spikes

- Psychosis and severe mental health problems

- Pulmonary damage

- Life-threatening complications that have resulted in hospitalization and death

The number of abuse cases has skyrocketed in recent years, and because it’s available over-the-counter, many people don’t realize how dangerous it truly is until it’s too late.

For six years, this legal substance has had a grip on my son’s life.

Hope

After a recommendation from someone who has been through the program and researching, we found Mountainside - a holistic treatment facility that offers a comprehensive 35-day residential program. For the first time in a long time, I’m seeing something different in Mal. We were able to get the cost cut slightly and get the financing together for the detox portion which he is currently in. He seems sincere about his recovery. Most importantly, he genuinely wants to complete this program.

We were able to come together as a family to cover the detox portion of his treatment, but we’re now facing the challenge of funding the remaining $30,000 needed for the full 35-day residential program.

The fact that Malachi wants to stay and complete this treatment gives me real hope. He’s taking ownership of his recovery, and this program could be the turning point he needs after six long years of struggling.

But the window to transition from detox into the full program is limited, and we are trying to make it work.

How You Can Help

- **Any contribution helps** - whether it’s $5 or $500, every dollar gets him closer to completing this life-changing program

- **Share this campaign** with your network - you never know who might be able to help or who knows of additional resources

- **Spread awareness** about Benzedrex abuse - this over-the-counter substance is destroying lives while flying under the radar

- **Keep Mal in your thoughts and prayers** as he works through this challenging time

I’m also actively pursuing scholarships and other resources to help cover costs, but we need help now if you know of anything please send it my way.

Why Mountainside?

Mountainside offers a holistic approach to recovery that addresses not just the addiction, but the whole person. The environment is supportive, and the program has a strong track record of helping people build lasting recovery. After six years of this battle, Mal needs comprehensive care that treats all aspects of what he’s been through.

Thank you for taking the time to read this Whether you’re able to contribute financially, share this campaign, or simply keep us in your thoughts - it all means more than words can express.

Recovery is possible, and with your help, Mal can have the chance he deserves to reclaim his life after six years of fighting this addiction.

With deep gratitude,

Nicole Colindres

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*Note: All funds will go directly toward Malachyte’s treatment costs at Mountainside Treatment Center. Any amount raised beyond the goal will be used for aftercare support and ongoing recovery resources