From Grief to Advocacy: Alex Colyer's Mission with The Albertus Project
Our mission is to redefine the way that the world views addiction, from one of blame and shame to one of compassion and support.
What happens when tragedy opens your eyes to a crisis you never understood? For Alex Colyer, losing her best friend to an overdose was a wake-up call that led her to found The Albertus Project. In this episode of 'Hard Knox Talks: Sober Stories. Real Talk.', Alex recounts her journey from ignorance to advocacy, driven by a profound need to make a difference in the world of addiction recovery.
Initially, Alex believed addiction was a choice, but her friend's death revealed the harsh reality and the severe lack of resources available. Struggling to find information and support, she realized that others must be facing the same challenges. Determined to change this, she launched The Albertus Project to provide education, resources, and support for those affected by addiction. The Albertus Project isn't just about abstinence; it embraces harm reduction as a vital part of recovery.
From funding transportation to treatment centers to supporting medication-assisted treatments like methadone and suboxone, the organization aims to meet people where they are. Alex also highlights the importance of supporting family members through programs like Community Reinforcement and Family Training (CRAFT), helping them understand and assist their loved ones better. Stigma is a significant barrier in addiction recovery, and Alex named her non-profit after the street her friend lived on to honor his memory without the weight of judgment.
The Albertus Project offers a non-judgmental space where individuals can find the help they need without fear of stigma. In her conversation with host Daniel Unmanageable, Alex sheds light on the limitations of traditional rehab programs and emphasizes empowering individuals to take control of their recovery journey. By providing tailored education and resources, The Albertus Project helps people make informed decisions about their path to sobriety.
This episode is a heartfelt exploration of loss turned into a mission of hope and support. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, Alex's story and The Albertus Project might offer the understanding and assistance you need.