Institutionalized at age twenty-three for alcoholism, Eugene began a losing battle to stay sober. After failing, even at Alcoholics Anonymous, he was diagnosed in Rusk State Hospital as a chronic alcoholic by his thirteenth birthday. Night after night his wife, Nancy, would pray for his salvation. In October 1978, Eugene met the Lord Jesus and was instantly delivered from alcohol and other drugs. After receiving the Lord as Savior, Eugene began going to jails to share his testimony and preach the good news of Godâ€"s deliverance and faithfulness.