Howard L.
Howard L.
Charlie D. – Sober Since July 1997 (Encore of Episode 37)
Charlie D. – Sober Since July 1997 (Encore of Episode 37)
Charlie D. – Sober Since July 1997 (Encore of Episode 37)
Wednesday 17th January 2024
Listen to Charlie D.'s inspiring story of overcoming addiction and finding hope in AA on 'AA Recovery Interviews' with Howard L.
66 minutes
Inspiring
Empowering
Hopeful
Reflective
Resilient
About this podcast
Author:
Howard L.
Overview:
Categories:
Recovery with AA
Navigating Challenges in Recovery
Creative Recovery Journeys
Family Recovery from Addiction
Empowering Recovery Journeys
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Episodes:
194 (View all)
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Get the buttons here!Charlie D.'s Path to Sobriety: From Brain Surgeries to Triumph Over Addiction
Episode Overview
- Charlie D.'s journey from adversity to sobriety is a testament to resilience and determination.
- The impact of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) in providing unwavering support and guidance on the path to recovery.
- Reflections on the challenges faced and triumphs achieved in embracing a life of sobriety.
- The pivotal role of faith, belief, and support in navigating the complexities of addiction and recovery.
- Charlie D.'s narrative serves as a source of hope and inspiration for individuals seeking a transformative journey to sobriety.
I near my first attempt at AA back in 1992 before I actually went to AA. And my memory is somewhat unclear on this, but somebody recommended the experiment that our big book talks about, which was, you know, to see if I was a real alcoholic or not for two weeks, I did the deal where I took a jigger. No, I mean, it proved to me I was an alcoholic because, you know, the two drinks wouldn't quite flip that switch in your head, but it got really close to flipping it. Every time I started drinking, I wanted to get drunk.
Imagine facing five brain surgeries before the age of 21. That was Charlie D.'s reality. By the time he was 15, he turned to alcohol and marijuana, not just for fun, but to numb the pain. Music became his escape when sports were no longer an option, and his substance use spiraled through high school, college, and even law school.
Despite achieving his dream of becoming a lawyer and winning big cases, Charlie found himself deeper in the grip of alcoholism, downing a fifth of scotch daily. His professional success couldn't fill the emptiness inside. Three DUI arrests and a failed marriage were wake-up calls that led him to AA in 1992. But it wasn't a smooth ride; his initial resistance to fully engaging with the program led to setbacks.
It took a second, more committed attempt for Charlie to embrace the steps and the spiritual aspect of AA, finally turning his life around in July 1997. In this episode of 'AA Recovery Interviews', host Howard L. sits down with Charlie to discuss his harrowing journey from addiction to recovery. They explore the pivotal moments that led Charlie back to AA, the challenges he faced, and the unwavering support he found in the fellowship.
Charlie's story is a testament to resilience and the transformative power of community. Whether you're struggling with addiction or supporting someone who is, this conversation offers valuable insights and a message of hope.