Heroes of Recovery: Inspiring Transformations in Substance Use Disorder

Next Generation Series

Tom O'Connor, Author

Keith Keller, Subject Matter Expert

January 12, 2025

Honoring Real-Life Heroes in Recovery

Growing up, I had several real-life heroes: an uncle, a cousin, and an elementary school teacher. Their influence shaped who I am today. Now, in my research work, I have met many individuals who have suffered from substance use disorders and successfully reached the peak of their mountain climbs. Each of these heroes has inspired me to be a better person.

Who Would You Enter on Your Heroes List?

To answer this question, reflect on the people you admire. During your lifetime, who has inspired you the most to become who you are today? Is it a parent, other family member, teacher, coach, employer, or someone else? Consider why you admire them.

I am honored that Keith Keller will be my subject matter expert on this Next Generation Vital Voyage issue. In this issue, I will honor several heroes I have met over the past year during my substance use disorder work.

Additional Information For You

Heroes in Recovery is a grassroots movement that aims to remove the social stigma associated with getting substance use disorder treatment and being in recovery. According to Heroes in Recovery, every year, 23 million people face a substance use disorder or a mental health disorder. Unfortunately, only 3 million of those individuals seek help.

A Hero's True Story

In storytelling, the actions of heroes are often exaggerated. However, this true story is devoid of any embellishment. Keith Keller’s life story is factually accurate.

As a child, Keith was overweight and insecure. His parents divorced when he was just nine. Like most kids, he wanted to be popular, athletic, and intelligent. In reality, he felt awkward and struggled with sports and academics.

From an early age, Keith became fascinated with alcohol. He often hounded his father for sips of beer or begged for a small glass of wine at special occasions. This preoccupation was not typical for a child his age. Playing the drums became an essential outlet for him as he grew up. However, this passion quickly intertwined with drinking and using drugs.

Keith's life spiraled into chaos. By age 30, he was in crisis. After a mental and emotional meltdown, he checked himself into rehab.

In rehab, Keith began to learn about substance use disorders and committed to getting physically fit. After his rehabilitation, he earned a nursing degree and bought a home. His recovery became sustainable. After 33 years, Keith is a registered nurse (RN), substance use disorder expert, and activist. His mission is to help those with substance use disorders.

Keith's website is www.infiniterecovery.org. He authored The Infinite Recovery Handbook: Beat Addiction and Have the Recovery and Life of Your Dreams. Now in its third edition, this handbook serves as a nuts-and-bolts guide for anyone confronting their substance use disorder or wishing to strengthen their recovery. By approaching recovery as a specific set of skills, individuals can transform into an upgraded version of themselves.

Real-Life Family Heroes Along My Transformation Journey

As the child of a father battling substance use disorder, I had two heroes during my childhood: my uncle and my cousin. In my book, Discover Your Adult Child: Survival Skills With An Alcoholic Parent, I describe how my uncle Paul was a great husband and father, working tirelessly to grow a successful business. He coached me on how to cope and thrive beyond my chaotic family environment. My cousin Kathy provided loving mentorship and taught me to travel, find a rewarding career, and create a joyful family life.

Heroes Climb Mountains—One Step at a Time

Climbing mountains can be slow and painful, but you can always take another step. That's how recovery from substance use disorder works. Heroes symbolize the courage and determination needed to confront substance use disorders. They deserve recognition and admiration.

In addition to Keith Keller, I met other real-life heroes in 2024, including Hollan Steen, Stephen Sundquist, and Chris Ferry.

Hollan Steen: From Recovery to Advocacy

Hollan Steen, the Director of Admissions at Asheville Recovery Center, is no stranger to addiction. He battled a decade-long dependence on drugs and alcohol, starting in high school. After spending 72 days at Asheville Recovery Center, he got sober and decided to stay. Today, Hollan counsels men and women struggling with substance use disorders and serves as the executive director of Rise Recovery sober living homes for men. He is also the Founder of the Mayor’s Substance Misuse Task Force in his hometown community.

Stephen Sundquist: Building Compassionate Detox Solutions

Stephen Sundquist is the Founder & CEO of Port Charlotte Detox. He battled substance abuse for 15 years before achieving recovery. From his experience, Stephen learned how to create a compassionate detox environment for individuals facing substance use disorders, especially those with co-occurring mental health conditions. During my visit, I saw how the center's serene water view helped calm clients battling their inner turmoil.

Chris Ferry: A Journey of Redemption

Chris Ferry is the Founder & CEO of Boca Recovery Center. His journey to sobriety began over a decade ago after hitting rock bottom in the world of drugs. Once a celebrated elite ice hockey player, Chris faced significant life challenges after misfortunes led to drug abuse. After five relapses, Chris finally found lasting recovery during his sixth rehab treatment. Now, he spreads hope and healing through the Boca Recovery Center, which offers excellent addiction treatment across various locations.

Your Call to Action

Substance Use Disorder Healthcare Providers

• Contemplate the individuals who have been your real-life heroes. Consider what inspired you about them. Reflect on how they shaped your life's direction.

  
  

• When appropriate, ask your clients about their real-life heroes. This technique, known as superhero therapy, can relieve some of their feelings of isolation regarding substance use disorders.

  
  

Substance Use Disorder for You and Family Members

• Find Support: Don’t go alone—seek help. Reach out to family and friends; their support is invaluable in recovery.

  
  

• Build a Recovery Network: Ensure your friends support your journey. Consider taking classes, volunteering, and attending community events to expand your social circle.

  
  

• Attend AA or NA Meetings: These organizations provide 12-step guidance for individuals with similar substance use challenges.

  
  

Explore Treatment Options

Once committed to recovery, it's crucial to explore treatment options. These may include:

1. Detoxification: This step helps purge the body of substances.

2. Behavioral Counseling: Individual, group, or family therapy can facilitate understanding the root causes of substance use.

3. Medication: Used for alleviating withdrawal and treating co-occurring disorders.

4. Technology Tools: Utilize medical tech and apps designed for recovery support.

5. Long-term Follow-Up: Essential for maintaining sobriety and preventing relapse.

6. In-home Medically Supervised Detox: Customized detox plans from the comfort of home.

7. Traditional Detox Facilities: Provide a comprehensive environment for recovery.

8. Therapy: Varieties of therapy to develop coping mechanisms and identify triggers.

9. Intensive Outpatient Programs: Flexible treatment options without disrupting daily life.

10. Residential Treatment: Full immersion into a healing environment.

11. Determine Your Best Fit: Research various programs tailored to your specific needs.

Make the Right Choice for Recovery

Establish your goals and consult healthcare professionals. They can help you find the right program tailored to your recovery needs. Remember, your path is unique, and selecting the right resources is vital for successful transformation.

Growing and discovering who we are doesn’t happen overnight. We take steps every day to become the best version of ourselves.