From Hockey Dreams to Painkiller Nightmares: Richard Greenop's Story
I never thought, growing up, that a pill would get my body feeling a certain way and then all of a sudden need it.
Ever wondered what happens when the bright lights of professional sports fade? In this episode of 'Hockey 2 Hell and Back', host Brady Leavold sits down with Richard Greenop, a former professional ice hockey player whose promising career was derailed by concussions and painkiller addiction. Richard, who played for teams like the Toronto Marlies, opens up about the dark side of his time on the ice, including his struggle with painkillers that began while he was still playing.
He doesn't hold back, sharing candidly about how his life spiraled into addiction and homelessness after his career ended. Richard's story isn't just about the pitfalls; it's also about the lessons learned. He highlights the glaring lack of education in the hockey community about managing money and making informed choices. Despite the immense challenges, Richard's journey is one of resilience and hope.
He stresses the importance of seeking help and support, reminding us all that it's never too late to turn things around. If you're interested in the human stories behind professional sports or looking for inspiration on overcoming life's toughest battles, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in to hear Richard Greenop's powerful testimony and find out how he's working to rebuild his life after hitting rock bottom.