In January 2021, I faced the loss of a lifelong friend to the
disease of alcoholism—a disease we both battled. With over five years of sobriety under my belt, this loss was an unnecessary reminder of the merciless nature of addiction and the inexplicable internal pain of those that are sick and suffering without hope. This period of mourning was compounded by a personal health crisis; I suffered a stroke that has impaired my vision, introduced chronic daily migraines, and led to a cognitive deficit. My life with spirited momentum in sobriety seemed to abruptly crumble, taking with it my beloved career, my adventurous hobbies, and my sense of purpose.
However, I recognized in the summer of 2022 that unless I change, nothing will change. Despite the hurdles my stroke presented, I felt an overwhelming need to run—to physically propel myself forward and move through the grief. Listen to this episode to hear how I set out with just my Apple Music app on my iPhone to run through the grief that so desperately needed to escape from my heart.
My hope is that this episode can offer hope to anyone who may be sick and suffering. If you your someone you know needs help, the #988Lifeline is available to support you. No matter what‘s on your mind or when you want to reach out, connect with someone who is ready to listen and support you.
Call or text 988 or chat at 988Lifeline.org.
