It's been almost five years since Burnaby resident Brendan McLellan was living on the streets, addicted to drugs and running away from all his problems.
Today he's still running but for a different cause; the Union Gospel Mission, the organization he says saved his life.
When the NOW spoke with McLellan nearly two years ago, he was preparing for his first half-marathon. Since then, he has run two charity half-marathons and has plans to run a third - the Scotiabank half-marathon on Sunday.
"I'm sure there will be hard times again, but right now, it just keeps getting better and better," he said, in a press release. "I have no complaints and I couldn't be happier."
McLellan said he continues to volunteer with the mission.
"I work with a lot of guys that have relapsed, so my phone constantly rings off the hook," he said. "But the investment is worth it. People were there and reached out to me when I was in my darkest place, and I want to be there for others. Now, life is absolutely fantastic. It just keeps getting better. I used to be so selfish. I've given that all up to God and my life is completely transformed."
He is running on the mission's team, which hopes to raise $50,000.
To donate to the team, visit www. ugm.ca/run.
