Ryan Phillips: From Hockey Dreams to Sobriety and Advocacy
I believe so much awareness comes to action, and so I've made the definite decision and you know, with the help of other people coming together here, it's either a rollerblade or a cycle.
Imagine chasing your dream of becoming a professional hockey player, only to have it derailed by addiction. That’s the story of Ryan Phillips. Growing up with a supportive family and a passion for hockey, Ryan left home at 16 to pursue his career. But as he climbed the ranks, the party lifestyle took hold, leading him down a dark path.
In this episode of 'The Addiction Podcast - Point of No Return', Ryan opens up about his journey through addiction, incarceration, and eventual recovery. Ryan’s life took a dramatic turn when he was arrested for smuggling marijuana into the United States. The arrest led to incarceration and a lifetime ban from re-entering the U.S. But Ryan’s story doesn’t end there. Upon his release, he faced years of battling addiction, using drugs and alcohol to cope with his guilt and shame.
It wasn’t until he discovered the dangers of benzodiazepines and the importance of tapering off that he began to truly commit to his recovery. Ryan’s journey is not just about his struggles but also about his triumphs. He found solace and purpose in sobriety, driven by the love for his daughter and a newfound mission to raise awareness about the dangers of benzos.
His documentary, 'Return to Happiness', captures his adversities and his path to recovery, offering hope and inspiration to others. This episode is a powerful reminder of the importance of awareness, education, and community support in overcoming addiction. Ryan’s story sheds light on the often-overlooked dangers of benzodiazepines and the crucial role of tapering off these medications safely. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, Ryan’s story is a testament that recovery is possible and help is available.
Tune in to hear Ryan Phillips’ full story on 'The Addiction Podcast - Point of No Return'.