Kyle VanDongen: From Addiction to a Life of Purpose
I'm not a fucking philosopher, but like I would just say, enjoyment, cool, like I don't know, like we, we all have different ideas of maybe what's after this, um, but we don't know, right?
Imagine facing the bitter cold of a Colorado winter, intoxicated and losing three fingers to frostbite. This is just one chapter in Kyle VanDongen's remarkable story. Growing up in a middle-class family, Kyle struggled in school and turned to drugs and alcohol as a coping mechanism. His journey spiraled from drinking to smoking weed and eventually to pain pills. But the loss of his fingers on a frigid New Year's Eve became a pivotal moment, pushing him towards sobriety.
In this episode of 'Thriving in Recovery', hosts Justin Harris and Bryce Givens sit down with Kyle to explore his path from addiction to recovery. Kyle opens up about the physical and emotional toll of his addiction, the wake-up call that led him to seek help, and the support system that played a crucial role in his transformation.
Through candid conversation, he shares how the 12-step program, daily routines, spirituality, and philosophy have helped him maintain sobriety and find joy in life. Kyle's story is not just about overcoming addiction; it's about finding purpose and meaning through helping others. His journey serves as a powerful reminder that it's never too late to turn your life around.
Whether you're struggling with addiction yourself or supporting someone who is, Kyle's experiences offer hope and practical insights for navigating the road to recovery.