This week’s conversation is with a small group of people interested in understanding my design for living. The conversation is raw and honest, and not everyone may be receptive to it. This is the beauty of choice. We no longer have to live our lives concerned about others’ opinions and expectations of us. Find your tribe, seek out mentors—more than one if possible. Love yourself, continue to grow, and aim to be 1% better every day. We stay focused on the solution, always striving to be better than we were yesterday. True transformation doesn’t come from mere contemplation; it requires action. You can’t think your way into right thinking; you have to act your way into it. Embrace self-love and recognize that your Higher Power is always present, waiting for you to open that channel. Detach your ego and eliminate reactive behaviors. Take criticism not as a setback but as an opportunity for growth. Objectively assess its validity and calmly evaluate the feedback. This enhances our ability to navigate challenging personalities and situations with grace. The ability to differentiate between the mountains of criticism and negativity we face daily and the opportunities they present is vital for personal and professional growth. Using criticism to focus on our present emotional intellect helps us stay mentally and emotionally in the moment. This is a pivotal skill for avoiding the darkness that comes with resentment and defensiveness. Prioritize intellect over emotion (I over E). By focusing on these principles, we can cultivate a life of continuous improvement and resilience. It’s about embracing the journey, learning from every experience, and finding strength in our connections and self-love Enjoy the conversation.

Lance Cline hails from the heart of Maryland. His childhood was shaped within the nurturing yet challenging environment of Recovery, as both of his parents have been steadfast in their Recovery journey for over 40 years. This unique upbringing instilled in Lance a deep understanding of the struggles and triumphs that come with addiction and recovery. In 2017, Lance’s world was shattered when he lost his brother to a fentanyl overdose. The grief and despair that followed were overwhelming, plunging Lance into a dark abyss of hopelessness and self-doubt. This profound loss became the catalyst for his own battle with addiction, leading Lance down a harrowing path that left him homeless on the unforgiving streets of Baltimore. Lance’s journey to recovery was anything but straightforward. It took the relentless pursuit of healing through 20 treatment centers before he finally found solace in surrender and acceptance. This pivotal moment marked the beginning of Lance’s transformation. Today, Lance stands proud, having been sober for six years. His unwavering belief in the 12 steps and the transformative power of service to others has been the cornerstone of Lance’s recovery. This commitment to helping others has not only fortified his own sobriety but has also given Lance a life, profound in meaning and purpose. Every day, Lance strives to live in the solution, embracing the challenges and joys that come with a life dedicated to recovery. Lance’s mission is to guide others towards the light of recovery, offering hope and support to those still struggling. Through Lance’s journey, he has learned that even in our darkest moments, there is always a path to redemption and a chance to rebuild our lives with love, compassion, and unwavering determination.

Jamar’s journey is a vivid illustration of the human spirit’s capacity to endure and triumph. It speaks to the courage needed to face one’s demons, the unwavering determination to reclaim one’s life, and the rediscovery of hope and purpose that fuels the path to recovery. His transformation is a beacon for others, illuminating the way forward and proving that with relentless effort and unwavering support, recovery is not just a possibility but a profound reality. Today, Jamar stands as a radiant beacon of hope, a living testament to the profound possibility of recovery and the arduous journey it demands. No longer shackled by the chains of a self-imposed prison, he now embraces life with the profound gratitude and vigor of one who has emerged from the darkest depths of addiction. His story is not just a narrative of survival but a powerful testament to the indomitable strength and resilience required to conquer the relentless grip of addiction.

Jamar’s odyssey to recovery commenced on March 17th, 2018, a date etched in his memory as the beginning of a profound transformation. His narrative is a harrowing tapestry woven with threads of deep-seated depression, excruciating pain, and an overwhelming sense of hopelessness and worthlessness. These emotions, intertwined with unmanageability, selfishness, and self-seeking behaviors, propelled him into an abyss of darkness. Jamar’s struggle with addiction was punctuated by harrowing episodes of suicidal ideation, seething rage, and a relentless cycle of denial and justification. Jamar’s descent into substance use began at the tender age of 13 or 14. The very first encounter with a substance was a revelation, an intoxicating escape from a reality he found unbearable. Drugs, and any other means of obliterating his consciousness, swiftly became his paramount obsession. Despite not being overtly rebellious, Jamar was a soul in turmoil, grappling with the scars of abandonment and other personal demons. He fulfilled his obligations, such as attending school, but the hours after school became a sanctuary for his substance use. Marijuana was his initial refuge, but as his addiction spiraled, he resorted to any substance he could procure. Today, Jamar stands as a beacon of hope, a living testament to the possibility of recovery and the relentless journey it entails. No longer confined to a self-imposed prison, he embraces life with the gratitude of a recovering addict. His story is a powerful testament to the indomitable strength and resilience required to conquer addiction and rediscover hope and purpose in recovery.

This week’s special guest is the returning Roger Layne from Week 2. Roger will delve into his extensive knowledge and experience with the virtues of Stoicism and the 12 principles of the twelve steps. These principles emphasize living a virtuous life, focusing on what is within our control, and accepting the natural order of things. Roger will explain how the 12 principles provide a practical, day-to-day application of Stoic philosophy, breaking down its core tenets into actionable steps. While Stoicism offers the philosophical foundation, these principles present a structured approach to implementing these ideas in everyday life, making the ancient wisdom of Stoicism both accessible and practical for modern living. Roger Layne,  seasoned in Stoic philosophy, will revisit the core virtues of wisdom, courage, justice, and temperance. He will illustrate how these virtues can be cultivated through the 12 principles, which include understanding what is within our control, practicing self-reflection, and maintaining emotional stability. By focusing on these principles, individuals can develop resilience and clarity, enabling them to navigate life’s challenges with greater ease and purpose. Furthermore, Roger will highlight the importance of gratitude, acceptance of fate, and the practice of detachment from material possessions. These aspects of Stoicism encourage a mindset of contentment and peace, regardless of external circumstances. By embracing the inevitability of change and living by reason, one can achieve a balanced and fulfilling life.   Roger’s insights will demonstrate how Stoicism is not just a theoretical philosophy but a practical guide for everyday living. He will provide examples and anecdotes to show how these principles can be applied in various situations, from personal relationships to professional endeavors. This approach makes the ancient wisdom of Stoicism relevant and useful for contemporary audiences, helping them to lead more virtuous and meaningful lives.

April Parker grew up in Indian Land, South Carolina, often escaping her tumultuous home life by playing outside, reading, and pretending to be a teacher. Despite being molested by her siblings and ignored by her parents, who were preoccupied with her father’s alcoholism, April excelled in academics and sports, earned a scholarship to Winthrop University, becoming the first in her family to attend college, and graduated with a BS in Elementary Education  During college, she met her ex-husband, became pregnant, and was pressured into marriage, only to later discover he was already married and living under a false identity from Africa. Despite these challenges, April supported her family, completed her education, and became a middle school science teacher.  After her father’s death from cancer in 2014, April felt lost but remained self-sufficient. However, she began using and selling drugs, got involved in illegal activities, and neglected her children. She quit teaching due to a scandal and turned to high-dollar prostitution and drug dealing, losing herself in the process. April was raped multiple times, and was incarcerated on October 20, 2020, leaving her kids under the care of gang members. Social services eventually stepped in and placed her kids with her mother, who then handed them to her ex-husband. Encouraged by a fellow inmate, April sought help from the chaplain and realized she didn’t want to live like this anymore. The incarceration was April’s start to a life of sobriety, with a sobriety date of October 21, 2020. After getting a bond, she went to a Sober Living home, although she stopped using drugs, April struggled with ingrained behaviors and the need for attention. Even though April was clean, the darkness continued to grow. April finally surrendered, began working the 12 steps, attending meetings and established a fitness and nutrition routine that brought her spiritual peace and a deeper connection with God. April met a wonderful man who taught her about love, service, family, and recovery, but he passed away from COVID shortly after celebrating 14 years of sobriety. Despite numerous challenges, April found direction and support, choosing sobriety over the urge to use. She moved back into Sober Living home and began working at a treatment center. April dedicated herself to serving others as guided by God. April now has a stable relationship with her kids, is engaged, and actively helps women in recovery, including sponsoring females in prison. She states, “Watching them heal, helps me heal”. April is involved in an addiction ministry, maintains strict routines and behaviors. April embodies the statement:  “Living by the power of Christ and striving to love like Jesus until I am called to Heaven”.

Seth Vallett’s life has been a rollercoaster of highs and lows, a symphony of triumphs and struggles. Born in the heart of Macon, Georgia, he emerged from a close-knit family—a tapestry woven with love and resilience. As a teenager, Seth danced on the edge of existence, drawn to mind-altering substances like a moth to a flame. These choices led him down a treacherous path, where addiction wrapped its tendrils around his soul, threatening to extinguish his light. The future seemed uncertain, a foggy landscape where hope flickered like a distant star. But in the midst of this darkness, Seth found unwavering support. His wife and family stood by his side, warriors in the battle against addiction. Together, they weathered storms, fought demons, and held onto the fragile thread of hope. Rehabilitation centers became Seth’s battlegrounds, and he faced more than ten overdose incidents—each a near miss, a second chance. Yet it was a seemingly ordinary six-day detox that altered the course of his life forever. In those quiet moments, Seth encountered Jesus Christ—a revelation that transformed his pain into purpose. Faith became the cornerstone of his recovery, a lighthouse guiding him through the tempest. Today, Seth stands as a testament to resilience. He wears honesty like armor, love like a warm embrace. In his community, he is more than a name; he is a beacon—a devoted father, a successful business owner, a friend, a role model. His scars tell stories of battles fought and won, etched into his skin like chapters of a gripping novel. Beyond personal growth, Seth finds solace in the wild. Hunting and fishing are his cathedrals, where he connects with nature and himself. But it doesn’t end there. Seth’s heart spills over with compassion—he gives back through service work, a ripple of kindness in a troubled world. He whispers to others in their darkest hours: “There is hope.” Seth believes that every twist of fate, every stumble, happens for a reason. His recovery journey, spanning nearly two years, is a testament to resilience, faith, and the power of redemption. So, remember Seth Vallett—a survivor, a warrior, a man who turned brokenness into beauty. His story echoes through time, a melody of hope for those who listen

Gerry Kelly: A Journey Across Oceans Gerry Kelly, a man of seasoned years and weathered spirit, traces his origins to the cobbled streets of Dublin, Ireland. Born under the watchful eyes of the Emerald Isle, he carried dreams as fragile as the morning mist. But destiny, that elusive weaver of narratives, had grander plans. In the fateful year of 1986, Gerry embarked on a pilgrimage across the Atlantic. With a mere $400 clutched tightly—a talisman against uncertainty—he stepped onto American soil. The United States, a symphony of ambition and opportunity, welcomed him with open arms. The Statue of Liberty, her torch ablaze, whispered secrets of reinvention and resilience. And so Gerry stayed. Thirty-eight years etched into the marrow of his bones, each day a chapter in the epic saga of survival. Pamela Helms, a beacon of warmth and laughter, became his partner in this unfolding drama. On a sun-kissed June day in 2024, they exchanged vows—their love a bridge spanning continents, cultures, and shared dreams. Their family portrait is a canvas of diversity: Together, they form a mosaic of love, resilience, and acceptance—a testament to the beauty of blended families. Their home reverberates with gratitude, and their hearts dance to a rhythm of compassion. But Gerry and Pamela are more than mere spectators in life’s theater. Their purpose transcends the ordinary. They extend hands to those ensnared by addiction—the alcoholics, the lost souls—offering redemption in exchange for their own joy. And then there are the constants: God, the silent architect; Country, its flag rippling in the wind; and Guns, symbols of protection and heritage. Gerry’s allegiance is unwavering, a hymn sung in the language of calloused hands and sunburned necks.   “Trust in God,” Gerry declares, his voice a timeworn melody. For he knows that even amidst the scaffolding of construction sites, where sweat mingles with sawdust, there’s a divine blueprint guiding his steps. May the winds carry his tale across oceans, whispering it to those who listen

Jessie Franklin and Lacy Spivey: A Journey of Redemption and Resilience Jessie Franklin and Lacy Spivey’s intertwined lives, marked by addiction and separation, ultimately led them back to each other. Their story serves as a beacon of hope for others, demonstrating that even in the darkest moments, redemption and resilience can pave the way to a new beginning. High School Connection: Jessie and Lacy’s vibrant personalities drew them together during their high school years. Although their initial romance was brief, fate would reunite them later in life, weaving their paths together once more.Bond Through Parenthood: Lacy’s pregnancy with their son, Hudson, solidified their bond. However, alcohol initially held them together while also fueling their downward spiral. Their shared responsibility as parents became a powerful force in their lives.Struggles and Recovery: Jessie battled severe addiction, reaching a turning point where he chose sobriety and relocated to Georgia. Meanwhile, Lacy raised Hudson alone, navigating her own substance-related challenges.Recommitment and Transformation: Despite their struggles, Jessie and Lacy recommitted to each other, embracing the 12-step recovery process. Jessie’s personal transformation led him to become a Certified Peer Support Specialist, while Lacy blossomed into the mother she aspired to be.Shared Faith and Community: Their unwavering faith sustained them. Jessie now coaches his son’s basketball team, surrounded by a close-knit group of friends. Lacy continues her recovery journey, supporting others along the way.In Jessie Franklin and Lacy Spivey’s remarkable journey, we find inspiration—a testament to the human spirit’s capacity for renewal and hope.  JESSE FRANKLIN CONTACT INFO  EMAIL : JESSIE@CourageCenterSC.ORG (803)-546-8280 LACY SPIVEY CONTACT INFO   EMAIL: lacyaspivey@gmail.com (803)-243-2368

Julie’s Journey to Authenticity  INSTAGRAM: Julie_Cole_Coaching / Julie@JulieCole.org Julie Cole sat in the dimly lit room, her fingers tracing the edges of her sobriety coin. Twenty-six years. It felt like a lifetime and a heartbeat all at once. The room was filled with others—strangers who had become confidantes, their stories woven together like a patchwork quilt of resilience. “If you live sober long enough,” Julie thought, “you’ll face joys and heartbreaks that cut to the core.” She knew this truth intimately. The laughter of newfound friends, the tears shed for lost loved ones—it was all part of the tapestry of recovery. Julie’s journey hadn’t been pretty. It had been raw, messy, and achingly real. She’d stumbled, fallen, and risen again. Her transparency was her strength, her authenticity a beacon for those still finding their way. As the owner of Julie Cole Counseling, Coaching & Consulting, LLC, Julie took a holistic approach to helping others. She understood that healing wasn’t just about abstinence; it was about rebuilding shattered lives. Her clients weren’t statistics; they were souls seeking redemption. The #loveher Podcast was her passion project—a space where authenticity reigned. Julie’s soothing voice carried stories of triumph and struggle, weaving hope into the airwaves. Listeners tuned in, nodding along as she shared her own battles—the messy divorce, the late-night cravings, the quiet victories. Twenty-five years in social work and substance use disorder counseling had etched lines of compassion on Julie’s face. She’d held trembling hands, wiped tears, and celebrated small victories. Her heart swelled when a client found their voice or a lost soul discovered purpose. Public speaking was both exhilarating and nerve-wracking. Julie stood before crowds, her vulnerability a superpower. She spoke of resilience, of the beauty in brokenness. Her certifications—Licensed Master Social Worker, Certified Peer Support Specialist, Certified Personal Trainer, Certified Health Coach, and Certified Nutrition Coach—were mere labels. What mattered was the fire within her—the unwavering belief that everyone deserved a second chance. At home, Julie juggled motherhood with grace. Two children, a spoiled dog, a guinea pig, two rats, and two fish—they were her heart. She taught them empathy, resilience, and the value of authenticity. They laughed together, huddled under blankets during thunderstorms, and whispered secrets late at night. And then there were her escapes—the gym, where sweat washed away worries; camping trips, where nature whispered ancient truths; hikes that led to mountaintop revelations; and travels that expanded her soul. Julie Cole—the woman who wore her scars proudly, who turned vulnerability into strength. Her journey wasn’t linear, but it was authentic. And as she sat in that room, surrounded by fellow travelers, she knew she was exactly where she needed to be.

Jodi’s Journey: From Darkness to Hope Jodi’s path through addiction, recovery, and the pain of loss has been an arduous one. The weight of shame and guilt rests heavily on her shoulders, yet she remains resolute in her quest for strength and sobriety. Despite enduring immense heartache, Jodi channels her experiences into helping others while safeguarding her own well-being. Together with her husband and son, Jodi’s commitment to staying clean reflects the unbreakable bonds of family love and resilience. Their shared journey is a testament to their unwavering faith and passion for grace. Facing adversity at its deepest levels, Jodi confronts her emotions head-on, drawing strength from every available source. In her 3.5-year clean journey, Jodi encountered three relapses in December and January. The turning point? The guilt stemming from her son’s overdose on December 31, 2024. Jodi believes her purpose extends beyond mere survival—it may even be divinely ordained. Her pain resonates universally: countless people in active addiction won’t survive, leaving shattered families behind. Jodi would sacrifice herself to spare a stranger from such anguish. Jodi’s transformation is remarkable. Once ensnared by addiction, she now embraces faith, supporting others seeking change. Yet, she’s learned that self-care matters too. Her son’s recovery from fentanyl and heroin addiction serves as a poignant reminder of the delicate balance between helping others and preserving one’s own well-being. Jodi’s inner honesty fuels her commitment to personal growth. Her spirit stands as a humbling testament: no matter the trials, with divine grace, we can prevail.

Russell Marchese’s story is indeed a profound narrative of hope, resilience, and the enduring power of faith and love. It’s a story that resonates with many who have faced similar battles, and it serves as a beacon of light for those still navigating the path of recovery. The journey of self-discovery and the embrace of one’s spirituality can be transformative. It’s a process that often begins with the challenging acknowledgment of our own role in our struggles, leading to a deeper understanding and acceptance of ourselves. Russ’s experience underscores the importance of this self-awareness and the strength that comes from a connection with a higher power. Russ says,” Once I put GOD 1st, you 2nd, I began to love the Man in the Mirror.” Every day of sobriety is a milestone, a testament to the commitment to a life reclaimed. The clarity and freedom that come with sobriety are indeed akin to a rebirth, offering new perspectives and possibilities. Russ’s story, like so many others, is a reminder that while the road to recovery may be long and fraught with challenges, it is also paved with moments of triumph and the potential for a renewed sense of purpose. It’s a journey that not only changes the individual but also has the power to inspire and impact the lives of others. May Russ’s story continue to inspire and offer solace to those who are on their own journey towards healing and self-discovery.  Thank you Russ for sharing such an inspiring account of transformation and hope. I love you and will be eternally grateful. “When the student is ready the teacher will appear”

Rachel’s profound journey to freedom is indeed a testament to the human spirit’s resilience and the transformative power of recovery. Born into a challenging environment, she faced her struggles head-on. Rachel’s journey from dealing with an eating disorder and substance abuse to becoming a pillar of support and inspiration is nothing short of remarkable. By turning her life around and dedicating herself to helping others, Rachel exemplifies the strength that can emerge from adversity. Her dedication to mindfulness, community, and physical wellness has not only been a cornerstone of her own recovery but also a source of strength for those around her. As Rachel continues to support others and spread her message of recovery, she embodies the very essence of service. Her efforts are indeed making a significant impact, and her story will undoubtedly continue to guide and inspire many on their paths to healing and well-being. Rachel’s words, “Together we will continue to embrace the pillars of peaceful balance through seeking resources to support your journey, -I’m here to help,” reflect a powerful commitment to service and a reminder that no one is alone in their struggles. It’s a call to action for communities to come together, share resources, and uplift each other in the pursuit of well-being. “Rachel, your journey is a testament to the power of hope and the strength of the human spirit” – Matty I

3 Pillars to a Peaceful Balance: Mindfulness / Meditation:Practicing mindfulness and meditation can help you cultivate awareness of the present moment, reduce stress, and enhance overall well-being. Consider incorporating mindfulness techniques such as deep breathing, body scans, or guided meditation into your daily routine. Community / Relationship: Building and maintaining meaningful connections with others is essential for emotional health. Engage with your community, whether through social activities, volunteering, or participating in group events. Supportive relationships provide a sense of belonging and contribute to a peaceful balance. Physical Wellness and Diet: Prioritize your physical health by adopting a balanced diet and regular exercise. Proper nutrition fuels your body and mind, while physical activity promotes vitality and reduces tension. Remember to stay hydrated and get adequate rest to maintain overall well-being.

JOURNEY OF RESILIENCE AND PURPOSE From the rolling hills of Pennsylvania to the warm embrace of the South, Gerry’s life’s journey has been anything but ordinary. At the tender age of 10, his family’s move to Irmo introduced him to a world where Gerry’s biracial heritage was as rare as it was misunderstood. The challenges were manifold: financial constraints that led to ridicule and a sense of isolation in a place where he stood out for all the wrong reasons. Yet, amidst these trials, his parents’ unwavering dedication to providing a loving home and education taught Gerry the value of hard work and perseverance. As Gerry navigated through college, his ambitions crystallized around a singular goal: to achieve financial success and escape the shadows of Gerry’s childhood hardships. Gerry’s career as a Strategic Account Manager in the Cardiovascular Division of a major medical device company became a testament to his drive and determination. But with success came an unexpected adversary—alcohol. What began as a celebratory ritual slowly morphed into a struggle that threatened to undermine everything Gerry had worked for. March 2007 marked a pivotal turning point. Embracing sobriety, Gerry found solace and strength within The Irmo Group, which has since become his steadfast home group. Gerry’s commitment to recovery also led him to serve as the Vice Chair of the Board of Directors at The Courage Center, where Gerry could extend a helping hand to others embarking on their own paths to healing. The past five years have been a period of profound introspection and growth. The end of an 18-year marriage, devoid of the joys of parenthood, prompted Gerry to look beyond the superficial markers of success. No longer confined by the titles and accolades of Gerry’s profession. Gerry says,” I am  on a quest to discover my true purpose—a purpose that transcends the material and seeks to make a meaningful impact on the world around me.”

William A. McCauley, a Certified Peer-Support Specialist affiliated with The Courage Center, has not only embraced this title but also woven it into the very fabric of his identity. His journey is one of resilience, transformation, and unwavering commitment to recovery. For over 25 years, William grappled with the relentless grip of addiction. The last decade was particularly harrowing, marked by IV Meth and Fentanyl use. His existence revolved around the pursuit of substances, leaving behind a trail of broken connections and a fractured family. By the time he stumbled upon the path to recovery, he stood on the precipice of homelessness, isolated and desperate. The turning point arrived during a moment of sheer vulnerability. After surviving 14 overdoses, William found himself in the throes of withdrawal, haunted by the certainty that the next dose could be fatal. Fear and craving waged war within him, creating a paradoxical panic. That fateful night, he screamed his defiance to the universe, refusing to succumb to addiction’s grip. In the quiet aftermath, a newfound resolve settled over him—a resolve that would alter the course of his life. Treatment became his lifeline. Armed with knowledge from various treatment centers, he drew from the well of 12-step literature and embarked on a journey of self-reinvention. But William’s path was not rigid; he blended multiple approaches, creating a personalized roadmap to recovery. At its core lay a commitment to service, a foundation that sustained him through the darkest days. Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), specifically Suboxone, played a pivotal role. It provided stability, easing the physical and emotional turmoil. And then, on February 1, 2021, William realized a long-held dream—he stepped into a career as an addiction professional. His house, his car, and his vibrant recovery community bear witness to the transformation. Today, life is not merely good; it’s great. William’s story is one of redemption, resilience, and the unwavering belief that change is possible—even when the odds seem insurmountable. His journey serves as a beacon of hope for others navigating the treacherous waters of addiction.

Matthew’s Journey: From Darkness to Light Matthew’s life was a tempest, a storm that threatened to drown him. As a child, anger clung to him like a shadow, and he struggled to find his place in a world that felt alien. But the universe had more trials in store for him. At the tender age of six, Matthew lost his closest companion—the brother who shared secrets, laughter, and dreams. The void left behind was vast, an abyss that threatened to swallow him whole. Yet fate wasn’t done with Matthew. At eight, he faced a horror no child should endure: molestation by a trusted family priest. Innocence shattered, trust fractured, he retreated into darkness. Desperation drove him to seek solace in the forbidden embrace of alcohol and drugs. By twelve, he was already ensnared in their grip. The path he chose led him through four tumultuous decades—a journey marked by shattered dreams, fractured relationships, and the relentless pursuit of oblivion. But within the chaos, a glimmer of hope emerged. Matthew discovered the 12 principles of a 12-step program—a lifeline thrown to a drowning soul. With unwavering determination, he clung to those principles, inching toward recovery. Today, Matthew stands on solid ground. His life, once a tempest, now flows with purpose. He extends a hand to other recovering souls, sharing his battle scars and victories. In local detox centers, he weaves hope into the hearts of those still lost at sea. Matthew wears many hats: a loving husband, a devoted father, a dutiful son, and a steadfast brother. His journey from darkness to light is a testament to resilience, redemption, and the power of community. May his story inspire others—a beacon in the night, guiding them toward their own path of healing. 🌟

Amber serves as a peer support specialist at a recovery community organization and she serves on the South Carolina Harm Reduction Coalition Political Affairs committee. Harm Reduction is a health centered approach that focuses on public health and safety. Examples of harm reduction we use in everyday life can be a seat belt, hard hat, life jacket, and oxygen. Examples of harm reduction in the community of recovery and for people who use drugs can vary; it includes naloxone, fentanyl and xylazine testing strips, education on safer IV use, providing sterile supplies, and policy change. Harm Reduction is the practice of unconditional love for people who use drugs. “My drug use began when I was in 8thgrade. I was the quite shy girl and I wanted to fit in. It started with alcohol, cigarettes, inhalants, and drug use games," says Amber. By the time she finished high school she was using everyday. Her dad was a local politician, her mom was going through breast cancer, and this was all in the eye of the public. “Everything I was experiencing, my community knew about. It wasn’t a pretty divorce. My dad cheated on my mom, I felt abandoned and like I was not good enough for him to stay. I remember the exact moment that my use changed. After my parents sat me down to tell me that they were getting a divorce I went to my friends to process and talk about it, I did not like the way I was feeling so I left. After the news of my parents separation I started misusing my prescription medications and started to drink heavily, and eventually turned to illicit drugs. In her early 20s she recognized she was “overdoing” her drug use, she says, “For so long I was telling myself I was young, having fun, and everyone was doing it. But everyone was not fighting, getting locked up, suicidal, running their friends over with their cars, yet I couldn’t identify as someone with a substance use disorder because of the way society painted that picture.” She’s come to realize that this disorder does not discriminate, and recognize she needed to do something different, and decided the solution was to settle down, start a family and do what society expected. “I ended up in a relationship with someone who shared a substance use disorder and down the line made the switch from stimulants, hallucinogens, and alcohol to opiates. I remember when I first tried an opiate, at the time my partner said it would be cheaper than a bar tab and that made perfect sense to me. We stayed in a relationship with each other for about 5 years and throughout our time together I became fully dependent on my partner. I couldn’t hold a job, I couldn’t pay for our responsibilities, and I couldn’t pay for our habit.” At the end of her relationship her partner ended up leaving, and Amber was left with financial responsibilities, mental and emotional responsibilities, and a habit that she had to figure out how she was going to support. She introduced Amber to the methadone clinic because it was working for her. Amber describes more of her journey: In the beginning of my journey on MAT my intentions were not pure, it was essentially a safe supply. From 2015 to 2017 I was still engaging in stimulants and alcohol but stayed away from opiates. During this time period I was able to gain some things back, mostly my independence. I was working in service industry, which was not a healthy environment for me. At the end of 16 going into 17 I lost my job serving and bartending and went to work for my dad in construction. This gave me the accountability I needed. At the time I was living in a not so good neighborhood in a run down home. I started my own cleaning business and was able to keep up with my responsibilities. In 2019 I started my mental health journey and was medicated. I moved into my own place by myself and the one friendship I had at the time ended. I was alone in this journey and that was hard. I heard about 12 step recovery before but never really tried it so I thought what the hell, it can go one of two ways; good or bad. It ended up being a good thing for me, I got that sense of community and felt heard and not so alone. I shared with this 12 step community that methadone was helping my recovery process, that did not go over well for me. I was shamed and told my recovery was not valid, that sucked and I felt isolated.  I did find a group of people who didn’t have this misunderstanding and I didn’t feel so alone again. I shared what happened  to me with a member and he asked me, what my intentions were on the medication, to be well or be high? The was profound to me because by that time my intentions were to be well. I was still harassed and excluded by some members but shut them out, it still made a negative impact on my self worth and self acceptance but I stayed because that’s all that I knew was available and I still got some sense of community. I did always feel like I was an outcast. I stayed in the 12 step community from 2019 to 2023. As my role of peer support developed I came to understand substance use disorder and realized that there are multiple pathways to recovery.” Today I have a relationship with my family, in my active use I was so angry and sad and did not care for a relationship with my dad. Today the relationship we have is better than it was before. I get to show up for my family, friends, and community. I’m ok with me! I’m ok to advocate for my mental and medical needs. I have a sense of peace and understanding – I’ve learned that things are not so black and white. I get to participate in community events and am part of something bigger than myself – a movement for people who use drugs to be seen and heard! Today I have hard conversations on stigmatizing subjects, I can understand both sides. I’m not afraid to speak up for the unspoken, the “discarded”, mistreated, and overlooked. I’ve turned some of my “defects” into assets, I use them to advocate for others! I’m proud of that! My most significant achievement is my courage to speak out about my medication assisted treatment, specifically methadone. Something that is widely misunderstood and judged, some of the harshest critics are those in recovery.

Norman Ferris born and raised in upstate NY, and even though he considers his childhood a good one, he found himself very self-conscious, and a very sensitive person. Norman was a good athlete in high school and loved working with horses. “My first drink qualified me as a drunk. Working with horses allowed me to drink. Drinking for oblivion, no rhyme or reason. It's just what I did. Isettled for less in all areas of my life and in time I did not like myself for what I had become, says Norman.” In this episode Norman tells the story of a huge, unexpected change that came when he was 25 years sober. While he maintains change is a natural part of life and always occurring, this was a realization that transformed his life. Norman keeps the change occurring by being disciplined, which he says if the foundation of his sobriety. He says, “I get up early, I shower, brush my teeth, eat healthy, wash my clothes make meetings because I hear the language of the heart. When you talk about you, I learn about me.”

Nansi is an outgoing person, so her soul that shines through her eyes. Without hearing her story, you would never understand the trials and tribulations she endured to make it to where she is today. Nansi was in active addiction since she was 16. She started with alcohol, which so many assume is harmless, but that led to cocaine. She soon found herself sacrificing her innocence and chasing the high in trap houses - actively using until she was 47. The last decade consisted of meth and Fentanyl use. She used to live and lived to use. She abandoned her family and ended up alone and close to homeless by the time she found recovery. In addiction, Nansi lived in the past of what it was like when she was a kid. It’s the only disease that convinces you that you don’t have a disease. It’s cunning, baffling, and powerful. Like too many people, substance use disorder had taken over Nansi’s life – that is, until one day when she found the inner strength to ask for help. "Thank God for my family. One of the things that breaks my heart is that I was not always there for my family as much as I feel I should have been. I was really being driven by addiction. They supported me through my entire journey. It starts with surrendering. And the first thing in surrendering is asking somebody for help. Whatever that help is. And hopefully you get to a place that can offer the help you need. It’s worth it.”