Photographer Bryan Derballa shares some photos of Jay, “a former drug-dealer and ex-convict that began hustling at the age of 13.”

“Now 34, Jay has spent almost half his life in prison. Two years ago, he married Gladys, a well-educated school teacher. They live together in the projects where she grew up. Jay claims that her love has saved his life and for the first time in his 15 year-long addiction to heroin, he began seeking methadone treatment. Everyday is a struggle but not without hope.”

In addition to the photos, there is also an audio slideshow.