Substance use disorder doesn’t just affect individuals—it shapes families, rewrites futures, and redefines identity. But within every storm lies a story of survival. This is my substance use disorder recovery story — a journey that took me from chaos and addiction to a platform of purpose, helping youth fight the very disease that once consumed me.
Understanding the Reality of Substance Use Disorder
What is Substance Use Disorder?
Substance use disorder (SUD) is a complex brain disease that affects a person’s ability to control their use of substances like alcohol or drugs, despite harmful consequences. It’s not about weakness or lack of willpower. It’s a condition that can affect anyone. Many individuals struggle with mental health and addiction and lack access to quality addiction treatment programs.
The Mental and Emotional Toll
For many, SUD starts as a coping mechanism. Over time, it becomes the dominant voice in your head—manipulating decisions, distorting truths, and damaging relationships. It isolates, suffocates, and eventually becomes a full-time identity.
The Importance of Language and Identity
I’ve often heard that people are not their disease. That’s true. But in the depths of addiction, it feels like your whole identity. That’s the cruel twist—what’s meant to numb the pain becomes the source of more pain. Understanding this helps us bring compassion to recovery.
High School Days: A Reputation I Didn’t Want
I graduated from Lake Oswego High School in Oregon with the titles of “Biggest Partier” and “Best Dressed.” Behind those superlatives was a young person deeply entangled in the chaos of addiction—using popularity to hide pain.I have been sober for 21 years. I graduated from Lake Oswego High School in Oregon and my only notable honors were winning “biggest partier” and “best dressed.” So you can imagine how ironic and just the universe has been by ultimately bringing a prevention youth task force to me … another gift.
College Years: Running From Myself
Three universities later, I landed at the University of Southern California, where I clawed my way to graduation. I didn’t belong there academically, but somehow—I made it. With an attorney’s help and sheer will, I became a second-generation USC grad. Another gift in disguise
The Breaking Point and Turning Around
In Washington, D.C., while working for a state senator and later for NFL legend Roger Staubach, my drinking hit rock bottom. I met someone who saw through it all. When he told me he couldn’t continue unless I changed—I finally listened. I got sober the next day.
Staying Clean for 21 Years
Sobriety isn’t a one-time decision—it’s a lifestyle. For 21 years, I’ve chosen recovery every day. And each day brings its own set of challenges and triumphs.
The Irony and Gratitude of Sobriety
It’s ironic how the disease that once nearly destroyed me gave me my greatest gifts—clarity, compassion, and community. Sobriety, as a friend put it, is “a gift wrapped in a funny box.”
Embracing Recovery as a Calling
Recovery gave me a platform. I was asked to lead a non-profit, the West Linn Community Task Force. Its mission? Prevent youth substance abuse and educate families. I was chosen unanimously. That, too, was a gift.
Because this disease tends to run in families, the normalizing of high school partiers gets passed down and social norms gets created. Some of the most charismatic, smart, generous people I know suffer from this disease. There is no shame in it, as we do not choose it. It chooses us. If someone who suffers can find sobriety and recovery, it will be their greatest gift. It is mine.
Giving Back: Leading the Charge Against Youth Substance Use
Taking Leadership of a Youth-Focused Non-Profit
In 2023, I stepped into the role of leading a youth substance prevention organization in Oregon. The mission aligned perfectly with my recovery: helping teens make informed choices.
West Linn Community Task Force Mission
We focus on equipping youth with facts, resources, and support systems that empower them to choose wisely when faced with drugs or alcohol.
Educating Teens About the Power of Choice
Our goal isn’t to scare teens. It’s to educate them. Knowledge gives them the power to say “yes” to their future and “no” to addiction.
The Role of Community in Sustaining Sobriety
Why Support Networks Matter
Recovery doesn’t happen in isolation. I wouldn’t be 21 years sober without the unwavering support of my family, friends, sponsors, and recovery community. Whether it’s a shoulder to lean on or someone to hold you accountable, connection is the backbone of lasting sobriety. We recover together, not alone.
The Ripple Effect of One Recovery Story
Sharing my substance use disorder recovery story has opened doors and hearts. It’s not about spotlighting my past—it’s about giving hope to those still in the storm. Each story shared becomes a ripple that reaches another struggling soul, reminding them they’re not alone and that healing is possible.
Challenging the Social Norms Around Drug and Alcohol Use
Dispelling the “Everybody Does It” Myth
One of the most damaging beliefs among teens is the idea that “everyone drinks” or “everyone tries drugs.” This illusion of normalcy fuels peer pressure and risky behaviors. But statistics show the opposite—most students don’t abuse substances. Shining a light on this truth helps shift the narrative.
The Influence of Family Culture and Peer Pressure
Substance use patterns often run in families, not because of genetics alone, but because of normalized behavior. High school partiers often raise kids who believe the same lifestyle is acceptable. My mission is to interrupt that cycle—one classroom, one family, one story at a time.
Life After Addiction: Discovering Purpose and Power
Embracing Leadership Roles
Recovery gave me more than sobriety—it gave me purpose. From being elected to public roles to leading a 200+ youth coalition, every opportunity to lead is a chance to rewrite the narrative around addiction.
Using the Platform for Prevention
Every speech I give, every youth I mentor, and every parent I speak with is part of a larger mission: to build a world where prevention is as valued as treatment. We don’t have to wait for rock bottom to intervene.
Building an Army of Change
Since taking leadership of the West Linn Community Task Force, I’ve felt a movement grow. Volunteers, youth leaders, educators, and parents are stepping up, forming an army against the epidemic of addiction. Together, we’re creating real change.
Lessons Learned on the Path to Recovery
Recognizing the Signs Early
If I had understood the warning signs in my teens—like using alcohol to feel normal or hiding my drinking—I may have asked for help sooner. Early education is vital.
Rewriting Your Story
You are not the sum of your worst choices. Recovery allows you to rewrite your narrative—not erase the past, but use it as a foundation for something better.
Viewing Recovery as a Superpower
The resilience, empathy, and insight that come from battling addiction are superpowers. I don’t hide my journey—I wear it as armor. My mess truly became my message.
Hope for the Future: A Message to Those Still Struggling
Why Recovery is Always Possible
No matter how far gone you feel, there’s always a way back. The first step is the hardest, but it leads to freedom, healing, and self-discovery.
How Sobriety Opened Every Door
From prestigious internships to marriage, children, and community leadership—none of it would’ve happened without sobriety. Every good thing in my life today stems from the moment I chose recovery.
What I Wish I Knew Earlier
I wish I knew that addiction wasn’t a moral failing, and that asking for help wasn’t weak—it was brave. If you’re struggling, ask. There’s a whole world ready to support you.
My Mission Moving Forward
Empowering Youth Through Education
Education is our strongest defense against addiction. I aim to arm youth with truth—not fear—and encourage them to build futures free of substance dependence.
Continuing the Fight Against Stigma
Breaking the stigma around addiction starts with honesty. By sharing stories like mine, we humanize the struggle and amplify the hope that recovery brings.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the biggest challenge in staying sober?
Staying mentally and emotionally balanced is the hardest part. Triggers never disappear, but with support, you can manage them and thrive.
2. How can family and friends support someone in recovery?
Be patient, listen without judgment, and offer consistent support. Encourage professional help and educate yourself about the disease.
3. What resources helped the most in your journey?
12-step programs, therapy, sober friends, and community leadership roles all played vital parts in my recovery.
4. Is relapse common?
Yes, but it’s not a failure. It’s a detour, not the end. With the right help, many return stronger than ever.
5. What advice would you give your younger self?
Don’t confuse fun with freedom. Ask for help, and never let shame stop you from healing.
6. Can addiction really become a gift?
Absolutely. It taught me resilience, purpose, and gave me a mission that’s changing lives every day.
Turning Pain into Purpose
My substance use disorder recovery story isn’t about where I came from—it’s about where I’m going and who I’ve become. The disease that once defined me is now the very reason I get to lead, educate, and inspire others. If you’re in the midst of your struggle, know this: your mess can become your message too. Recovery is possible. And it may be the greatest gift of your life.
External Resources for Recovery and Prevention
| Organization | Purpose | Website |
|---|---|---|
| SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) | Free helplines, treatment locators, support | samhsa.gov |
| West Linn Community Task Force | Youth prevention, community outreach in Oregon | westlinncommunitytaskforce.org |
| Alcoholics Anonymous | Peer support, global network for sobriety | aa.org |
| Al-Anon/Alateen | Support for families and teens affected by addiction | al-anon.org |
