John Fryer’s Journey: Mental Health and Sobriety in Harmony
And that was a huge turning point in my recovery, because up until that point, you know, I think this happens in the rooms too.
John Fryer's story is a testament to the complex dance between mental health and sobriety. In this episode of 'Atheists in Recovery', Dr. Adina Silvestri sits down with John, an artist and recovering addict, to unpack his unique path to recovery. From his roots in Syracuse, New York, to his professional achievements, John's narrative is deeply intertwined with his battle against addiction and mental health issues.
Early in his journey, a pivotal moment came when his first sponsor made him confront his mental health head-on, a move that significantly shaped his recovery process. John's advocacy work is as inspiring as his personal story. He has built an 'underground network' of supporters worldwide, tapping into this community to aid others on their recovery journeys.
His innovative projects like the Coffee Bike and Narcan Bike have served not just as creative outlets but as integral parts of his recovery program. These initiatives underscore the importance of being active and engaged in the recovery community. One memorable moment in the episode is when a student from Rams in Recovery questioned how John could claim to be in recovery if he was primarily focused on advocacy.
This question prompted John to deepen his connection with the recovery community, further enriching his journey. As John approaches eight years of sobriety, he reflects on how these projects and his advocacy work have evolved. His story is one of resilience, hope, and the transformative power of community and tradition. Whether you're in recovery or supporting someone who is, John's experiences offer valuable insights and inspiration.