Larry Hawkins: A Journey from Addiction to Hope
I was in such a bad spot in my life and bad place, hurting others and myself. The meetings of aa and the groups that we had held there were helping me through the times I was dealing with while there...
Larry Hawkins, a 39-year-old Dena'ina Athabaskan from Tyonek, has a story that will inspire anyone struggling with addiction. On this episode of The Anonymous Eskimo Podcast, Larry opens up about his 16-month journey to sobriety, sharing the ups and downs he faced along the way. Starting with smoking cigarettes at a young age and spiraling into a deep crack addiction, Larry's life took a dark turn.
He found himself selling drugs to support his habit, hurting not just himself but those around him. His turning point came when he discovered AA and NA meetings, which provided him with the tools and community support he desperately needed. Larry also attends Wellbriety meetings, Native American-based AA sessions conducted via Zoom. This platform has been a lifeline for him, especially during the pandemic when in-person interactions were limited.
He shares his experiences at the Ernie Turner Center, a treatment facility where he learned the importance of prayer, talking to a sponsor, and relying on virtual meetings to stay connected. Larry's story is a beacon of hope, proving that recovery is possible with the right support. He advises those still struggling to seek help through prayer, sponsorship, and connecting with others in recovery.
The Anonymous Eskimo Podcast aims to break the stigma around mental health and addiction, offering stories like Larry's to inspire and encourage. Tune in to hear Larry Hawkins' incredible journey and find hope in your own path to recovery.