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United Kingdom
A former Disney software engineer has disclosed how the entertainment giant extended a second chance after he misused his corporate credit card due to drug addiction.
Taron Sargsyan, who joined Disney as an intern in 2014, was working on Disney's Photopass team when he turned to methamphetamines as a coping mechanism for personal mental health issues.
Despite earning a substantial salary, he shared that most of his income was spent on drugs and supporting his family. His financial troubles reached a breaking point when he accumulated a $24,000 bill on his Disney corporate card.
In a candid admission, Sargsyan explained that while he didn't directly use the credit card for drug purchases, it indirectly facilitated his drug habit by freeing up personal income for those expenses.
Desperate and facing potential repercussions, he confided in his manager about his financial mismanagement, omitting details about his drug problem.
Contrary to Sargsyan's initial fears, Disney responded with compassion, offering him an opportunity to repay the debt and issuing a formal warning.
The company's gesture, Sargsyan stated, marked a turning point in his life. With a loan from his family, he repaid the debt and embarked on a journey of rehabilitation.
Despite facing numerous setbacks in rehab, Sargsyan's life took a positive turn in 2018 when he sought help from a specialized facility. The experience not only aided in overcoming addiction but also improved his relationships, including those with his family.
Reflecting on Disney's role in his recovery, Sargsyan emphasized the power of compassion in inspiring forgiveness and accountability. Although he no longer works for Disney, Sargsyan expressed gratitude for the company, acknowledging its impact on unlocking his imagination and providing him a second chance at life.
In August 2019, Sargsyan voluntarily left his position at Disney, stating that he found a new purpose for his life beyond the job. He emphasized internal motivation for his sobriety and a desire to share his experiences and story with the world.
