Ira's Fight: From Addiction to a Purposeful Life
“I have a purpose today, and I feel God steps in my life a lot and he was telling me to have courage and be fearless.” - Ira
Ever felt like you just don't fit in? That's exactly how Ira felt growing up in the 70s, caught between his Irish and Vietnamese heritage. By age 13, he had already picked up his first beer and smoked dope, and by 15, he was using IV drugs and hooked on cocaine and opiates. His journey spiraled into a life of addiction, leading to multiple felonies across Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Florida. But that's not where Ira's story ends.
In this episode of Real Recovery Talk, Ira opens up about his tumultuous past and the incredible journey he's taken to achieve nearly two years of sobriety. Battling severe health issues like cancer and diabetes, Ira's story is one of resilience and transformation. He talks candidly about the verbal and physical abuse he endured as a child, the challenges of being a mixed-race kid in a divided world, and the deep sense of not belonging that fueled his addiction.
But more importantly, Ira shares how he turned his life around. With the help of a supportive community and a newfound sense of purpose, he found the courage to face his demons head-on. He emphasizes the role of faith in his recovery, stating that it gave him the strength to keep going even when things seemed impossible. Ira's journey is a powerful reminder that no matter how deep you're in, there's always a way out.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone struggling with addiction or supporting someone who is. Tune in to hear Ira's inspiring story and gain valuable insights on overcoming addiction.