Ron's Story

Supporting patients on their journey to recovery at Ridgewood Addiction Services 

Thanks to a funding partnership announced in July 2022, three housing units at Ridgewood Addiction Centre underwent a complete renovation that transformed the living environment for those seeking treatment there. 

The provincial government, Horizon Health Network, and the Saint John Regional Hospital Foundation have each contributed $1.27 million – the Foundation was able to support this project because of ticket purchasers like you. 

Located on the West Side of Saint John, these renovations created more single-bed rooms as well as more modern and updated common spaces. Research and best practices suggest that a friendly, secure environment is essential to assist people in overcoming addiction and mental health issues. 

When Ron Devlin arrived at Ridgewood, he described himself as being “in pretty bad shape.” 

“I had the clothes on my back,” he said. “Now I’ve got too many,” he added with a chuckle. 

At Ridgewood, Ron learns skills like meditation, journaling, and breathing techniques to help him cope. 

The program has done so much for Ron. “It’s really, really good. I couldn’t be more thankful,” he shares. “It’s completely changed my life, and I know it’s changed other lives — and hopefully you know that.” 

When asked what he’d like to say to the kind donors and ticket buyers who supported the Ridgewood renovations, Ron said, “I would just give them all big hugs,” he added, gratitude evident in his eyes and voice. 

When you purchase a New Brunswick Hospital Home Lottery ticket, you’re helping advance health care excellence for all New Brunswickers, like Ron and other patients on their road to recovery.