A Big Blank

On one hand, Gabriel’s family was searching for him, while on the other hand, he had no clue about his past. He said in an interview, “it was just a big blank in the back of my mind, and every time I tried to think about it, it just made me wonder, ‘[Am] I crazy? What happened to me?’ And then I’d think to myself, ‘What have I done to be in such a position?’”

Must’ve Been Something Terrible

The confused man started to think of the possibility that he might be some criminal. He recalled, “I’d just feel guilty and think, ‘Maybe I’ve committed murder or a bank robbery or something,’ then I’d occasionally jump inside a bottle, and that’d help me really forget stuff.”

The Accurate Explanation

The condition that Gabriel suffered from was Dissociative Fugue.  As per the Cleveland Clinic, “Further, quick intervention following a traumatic event or emotionally distressing experience might help reduce the risk of developing dissociative disorders.”

Living Like A Mess

Gabriel didn’t make any contacts and did odd jobs to fill his stomach. He was scared of getting caught which kept him from approaching the cops. For over two decades he lived as a homeless man without any memory of his past.

Whatever It Takes

Tired of living on the streets, Gabriel immediately accepted the offer of Barry Hayhoe, a pastor of the River of Life Church, a man who offered him food every other day. They gave him work and a small space to live in and as Gabriel explained, “I jumped at the chance and it kept me off the streets.”

Looking Like A Greyhound

“Apparently, back then I looked like a greyhound. All ribs, skin and bone,” remembered Gabriel. After a couple of months, he was working at the church as a caretaker. He was rewarded for being grateful.