Chelsea
Sober 2+ Years
I've struggled with substance abuse all of my adult life. That's a little less than 2 decades.
My childhood was great. There weren't any learned behaviors that led to my use. I do think there is a genetic component that I inherited, however. I truly believe that alcoholism/addiction is a disease of the mind, body, and soul. I don't know how else to explain why I can't just have 1 drink or what happens if I try.
Although I've had bouts of sobriety throughout the last 20 years, it took getting pregnant and the combination of all my previous efforts to get where I'm at. By the grace of God, I'll have 28 months clean and sober on the 13th.
This isn't to say, "I've overcome" or "made it". The truth is I haven't. There is no final destination. Every day I wake up and make a choice to abstain from alcohol and drugs. Some days are easier than others. On the hard days I just hang on and use my tools because the only thing I know for sure, it's that staying clean and sober is far easier than getting clean and sober.
Jon
Sober 7+ Years
Hello, thanks for reading this.
Today I am a grateful recovering addict with 7+ years clean and sober. As a product from an addict family I started using early on in life. Mistake after mistake, I never seemed to learn my lesson. Then one night I should have made it home (like many others) in years past. I didn’t make it. Like I told the cop this must be for all those nights I made it when I shouldn’t have. Thanks to Alaska Therapeutic Court (Drug court). I was given the last chance I needed to find my way. Today I’m a father to two wonderful boys.
A family man.
A leader in my trade as shop foreman.
Last, but not least, a brother in what is for me the glue that holds in all together
Second To None MC. Feel free to ask me questions if you see me.
Kara
Sober 10+ Years
Kara is an active advocate for sobriety. She is the Director of Development and Public Relations at True North Recovery. "We must recover OUT LOUD."
She is in support of this documentary, Treasure in Plain Sight.
This project that will transform hearts and minds by helping people see the humanity and value in those who have been incarcerated and those who have struggled with substance use disorders. The documentary emphasizes hope and the possibilities of recovery and restorative solutions through a powerful story of healing, innovation, and growth -- set against the current challenges and highest-ever levels of overdoses recently reported.
Lance
Sober 8+ Years
My name is Lance Hanes.
My recovery journey began in 2013 after decades of substance use.
Life in recovery is more than I could have possibly imagined.
Faith, family, friendship and a drive to help others find there way to a better life is what fills my spirit today.