#84: This week we bring you a very special bonus episode featuring the story of Randy Beard, one of the attendees at the 2023 Mobilize Recovery Conference in Washington D.C. While at the conference, Bryce opened up a space for folks to share their stories and tell us what brought them to Mobilize. He was able to connect with Randy, a Maine native who was attending the conference, and capture his story. Randy is a person in recovery, who struggled with substance use disorder for 36 years and spent 25 years as part of the unhoused community. During this profoundly moving conversation with Randy, we discuss:
- The two people who checked on Randy everyday and offered him solutions when no one else was interested in helping.
- The celebration of life that turned into a 1,000 person event and eventually led him to attend Mobilize Recovery in Las Vegas.
- The thought that there are 22 million people in recovery in the U.S., and if we could all save just one life, that's a lot of lives changed.
- Why he goes back to the homeless encampments and shows people unconditional love: because not having that himself was like quick sand; the more you struggle the more you sink.
- Being able to see the light come on in someone's eyes. For Randy, there is nothing more rewarding.
- A message to the parents and loved ones of folks who battle substance use disorder.
Check out the Recover2gether Facebook group, a group started by people in recovery to support each other and recognize the loved ones we have lost. All are welcome
Check out episode #25 with Mobilize Recovery founder, Ryan Hampton.
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If you or a loved one is experiencing a mental health or substance use related crisis, the following resources can provide immediate help.*
If you are experiencing a medical/mental health emergency, dial 911.
*Note: The resources listed are provided for informational purposes only. This list is not comprehensive and does not constitute an endorsement by The Phoenix or the Rise Recover Live Podcast.
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