Kathleen's Alaskan Odyssey: From Addiction to Healing
Episode Overview
Kathleen shares her experiences of addiction to meth and heroin, and the impact of generational trauma on Alaska Natives. She discusses the turning point that led her to seek recovery and the challenges she faced. Kathleen found healthy coping mechanisms, such as writing and practising gratitude, that helped her rebuild relationships and rediscover the joys of life. She offers words of encouragement to anyone considering recovery, emphasizing the importance of being present in the moment. Her story is a testament to the resilience and hope found in the journey to recovery.
I think that it would be when I lost my daughter to OCS. Like not only that, but like, there was a point where I had seen my dad cry before he took off from Anchorage for medical after visiting me. That was like super hard for me to see.
Kathleen Brendible's story is a journey of resilience set against the backdrop of Metlakatla, Alaska. In this episode of 'Sitting with Sean', Kathleen opens up about her life in a remote village, the struggles she faced, and her path to recovery. Growing up in Metlakatla, Kathleen encountered unique challenges that led her down a dark path of addiction to meth and heroin.
She speaks candidly about the impact of generational trauma on Alaska Natives and the personal hardships she endured, including homelessness. Kathleen’s turning point came when she realized she needed a change and sought recovery. Through counseling and outpatient programs, she discovered healthy coping mechanisms like writing and practicing gratitude. These tools helped her rebuild relationships and find joy in everyday moments.
For anyone on their own recovery journey, Kathleen offers heartfelt advice: take it one day at a time and cherish the small victories. Her story is a powerful reminder of the strength and hope that can emerge from even the darkest times.