Before connecting with SafeLink Alberta, Anong was in a difficult position. She was pregnant and struggling with substance use. Anong, an Ojibwe woman from Manitoba, has been residing in Medicine Hat for the past decade. She had challenges from a young age, which led her to use substances to cope.

A friend informed Anong of SafeLink Alberta's work with people who use substances and the Well Program. The Well Program is a Medicine Hat-based program that provides safe, low-barrier services and support to people experiencing pregnancy with the aim to improve the health and wellbeing of vulnerable women and the infants born to them. The program works with people experiencing barriers such as homelessness, substance use, and previous involvement with Child and Family Services.A lifeline during her pregnancy when she felt lost and alone.

Initially skeptical, Anong found solace in the non-judgmental support from her case managers. Their unwavering assistance helped her attend appointments.  Anong stabilized and accessed medical care through the Well Program throughout her pregnancy and for up to two years now. 

Anong discontinued her substance use after being diagnosed with schizophrenia in December 2023, with continued support from SafeLink Alberta. She shares that one major success for her is reconnecting with her children. With the continued assistance of the Well program, she is now a full-time mom, 

Anong describes SafeLink Alberta as invaluable, stating that it gave her hope and restored her life, improving her children's lives in the process. When asked to share her thoughts on the program, Anong shares “Women that are pregnant, they're already so vulnerable. If you're in addiction, you're vulnerable. So, having both those things, and having the nurse on staff knowing what you're going through, I think it's really important to still have that connection with people without the judgment. Just having that strong support system when you're already going through a really hard time.”