Ryan D.'s Journey: From Chaos to Sobriety
Episode Overview
Ryan's childhood was marked by instability due to his parents' addictions. He struggled with intravenous drug use and alcoholism during his academic years. Attending AA meetings worldwide played a crucial role in his recovery. Returning to Southern California helped him find a supportive recovery community. Making amends and developing a spiritual connection were key steps in his journey.
"This homegroup was very important to me, it provided me strength and security and structure; these were 3 very important things for me in a life of chaos"
Ryan D. takes the mic in this episode of the Keep Coming Back Podcast, sharing his incredible journey from the depths of addiction to a life of sobriety. Growing up with parents who struggled with their own addictions, Ryan's early years were filled with instability and fear. From being left in hot cars to living in a trap house, his childhood was far from ordinary.
Despite these challenges, his maternal grandparents provided some stability by taking him abroad to Japan for schooling. Ryan's story is one of extreme highs and lows. He recounts his experiences with intravenous drug use during his first semester in grad school and the subsequent spiral into alcoholism. His life took him across the globe, from the streets of San Francisco to the bustling cities of Southeast Asia, where he continued to struggle with addiction.
Despite these setbacks, Ryan found solace in the rooms of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), attending meetings in places like Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur. A turning point came when Ryan decided to return to Southern California, a place he describes as the 'mecca of recovery'. There, he found a supportive community within AA that helped him develop a spiritual connection and rebuild his life.
Ryan shares how important it was for him to make amends to his family, especially his children, and how AA's 12-step programme provided the structure he desperately needed. Ryan's story is raw and honest, offering a unique perspective on the struggles and triumphs of addiction recovery. His journey underscores the importance of community, spirituality, and the relentless pursuit of sobriety. If you're looking for a tale of resilience and hope, this episode is a must-listen.