So, for the past few days I have been at the annual LASACT conference. Sitting through 20+ hours of training related to addiction and family dysfunction can tend to make me examine myself just a little closer. As far back as I can remember, I have been an anxious child and socially awkward. I have always … Read more
Today would be my grandfathers 73rd birthday. But sadly we lost him just a few days ago (which would explain my absence this past week). As most of you know we also lost my mother (his daughter) to addiction back in 2007. Her loss was nothing short of traumatic for our whole family. My grandfather … Read more
This has been a week of enlightenment. Someone recently asked me my opinion about something I feel strong about. I’ve grown enough to know that my opinion may not be the same as everyone else but it doesn’t make my feelings invalid or less than. I am only in control of myself and my choices. … Read more
When shit gets deep, put your boots on and walk through it. I went to an alanon meeting today. I’ve missed going the last few weeks. If you know me, you’ll notice I don’t care to be the center of attention. Public speaking isn’t my thing, but embarking on this new journey has forced me … Read more
Change was always the underlying theme in our fast-paced lives. One minute Mom was just a typical teenager and the next she was a mother. At just 16 years old she welcomed me into the world. Her age definitely changed up our dynamic. It made us more like sisters or friends. Kindergarten homework was our … Read more
November 2007 Fall had always been my favorite variation of Louisiana weather. It was such a welcomed change from the scorching temperature of the summer months. I laid there allowing the breeze to caress my face through the open window. I had planned a quiet day of movies at home with my fiancé, Larry. We … Read more
My name is Tyler and I am a recovering heroin addict. I’m 32 years old and am from Ohio, a State that has become engulfed in this epidemic. I have taken my last breath a few times in my life. By the grace of God and the first responders who had Narcan I am still … Read more
Maybe I don’t know what it’s like to be physically dependent on drugs. Yes, that you are right. I’ve never been physically addicted to anything myself. But losing my mother to addiction and having a child with someone who was tormented by the same disease has given me some insight that I pray nobody else … Read more
So many of us had this unpleasant and awkward situation present itself. I know for myself that holidays were OVERLY stressful for me when my mother and ex husband were in active addiction. It was luck of the draw on what type of personality you got that day. And little eyes are always watching. They … Read more
