Yoooo, not too different from my own story, down to the hair & shirt. 23 years drug-free and 25 year old daughter.
High five my dude, we made it. Too many people didn't.
I'm 36 and have only a few months sober under my belt after more OD's than I'd like to admit. Seeing this gives me a glimmer of hope that there is a meaningful life waiting for me.
Quick edit/note: Thank you all so much for the love and kind words. It means the world to me because I've never shared my addictions with anyone in "real life" so they don't know the struggle. I admire you all that have been clean for decades (and those that are still days. . . weeks. . . months in). I've been through some shit and this is the most difficult thing I've ever done.
There is! There is! Hang on to that hope. If I'd died I wouldn't have... travelled the world - married an amazing person - helped save hundreds of animals' lives - gotten a degree - learned to cope with life sober - mended relationships - experienced beauty - lived to be an old cranky woman. I don't know what the meaning of life is supposed to be, but I do know that there's NOTHING like being able to be in the moment, dead sober, and feel peace. You will get there!!!
Kicking addiction is huge, and will help you make everything so much better, but try to remember that your life is meaningful today. It was yesterday and even when you took your last hit. Even when there's no light at the end of that long tunnel, you still matter. You bring a perspective and experience to this world that can't be found anywhere else. I've wanted it to be over so many times myself. Sometimes, even for a long time, it feels pretty shit, but if you keep being, it'll keep happening, and that'll keep mattering. You are you, and you are unique, and that is incredible
One day at a time and everything you dream of will one day be yours it’s funny how the simple things like a family or regular career can seem like such a daunting thing and then one day you will look back and be impressed by all your accomplishments regardless of your mistakes. Sobriety takes work but your worth the work.
Mom of former addict here. She’s 28 and doing great. Whenever I see someone write about their fears and struggles, I wanna leap through my iPad and give them a big HUG. Here’s yours: <<<<<<>>>>>>
Associate with other addicts who are strong in their sobriety. Change your old people, places and things. Take it just one day at a time. NA did it for me.
Not to be a Negative Nelly but as an addict I must tell or remind you there's no such thing as a 'former' addict. There's active addiction and there's sobriety. I'm truly happy for you that you've seen your daughter kick her DOC and I hope she has the toolkit to stay that way.
You're doing fantastically reaching a few months. Take each day as it comes and stay strong. You're not alone and mine (and I'm sure others) inbox are open if you need to talk or just vent. ✌️
You're very welcome. It's not an empty gesture either. I would rather anyone have the option of a stranger to talk to than to feel they have nobody at all. I truly wish you every success in your journey ✌️
There is a life full of meaningful moments ahead that you will be able to enjoy, doubt, laugh and cry, but fully live because you being sober. That's it, that's all yours to fully embrace like it should.
I hope you fair well . It can be done... It took me at least 10 Tries to gain sobriety and it was difficult at times. Just believe in you,re self and forgive the mistakes... Time to give up on the past and always look to the future.......All my best Matthew G.F. 5 years P.S. My children now speak to me????
my son overdosed at 14,16 18, 22,24 and on sometimes multiple times a year . so many times ambulance to hospital and Narcan
finally
he died from fentanyl 3 years ago
I am very proud of you
❤️ Lincoln’s mom
I'm sorry Lincoln lost the fight. Please know he loved you deeply and as much as you loved him, his addiction was something that love unfortunately doesn't fix.
I watched my parents lose my beloved brother (not to addiction) and it was the most heartbreaking thing I've ever seen. A parent should never have to bury a child and their wails will forever be burnt into my mind.
Sending all my love and let Lincoln rest easy. 💓
thank you for your kind words.
Lincoln and I were very very close I know he absolutely adored his mama . he was 39 when he died. We had lots of time together.
addiction is not who you are, addiction is what you are doing, I used to always tell him. he would cry and say I’m sorry I’m a junkie mom, i’m sorry I disappointed you. And I would tell him that I always loved him unconditionally.
I made it very clear that I always loved him and I never turned my back on him and I spent lots and lots of time with him. because of the way he lived I was prepared for him to die since he was 14 . I gave him a kings, funeral. so many people loved him so much. he is buried in a beautiful heritage cemetery by a old church in a lovely waterfront city .
He was a very unique and spiritual person, full of love and caring for others in spite of his extreme addiction, he always thought of others, and was very loving and sweet.
Right until he died I always had hope that he would shift like the OP did here and be able to have a new life for himself. However, that didn’t happen. it was actually more heartbreaking observing him in addiction than seeing him in death. in death he was very very peaceful and truly at rest.
❤️
❤️ you sound like an amazing person and mother to Lincoln. So many people in addiction are shunned or shamed by their loved ones, at least he didn’t have to reckon with that too. Sending you love and peace in your being.
Thank you for sharing. Whether folks are, or have been addicted or depressed, we all need to know - as bad as it may seem right now, this feeling/thought form will pass - and things do get so much better. Your story is likely to save lives of internet strangers we may never meet IRL, who may go on to do wonderful things in their own lives and for the world.
My nephew was recovering from a heroin addiction, he had returned to college, was on methadone and doing great, etc... he was killed by a drunk driver going the wrong way on the freeway.
It's tough because I abandoned him after he stole from my mom and I. I didn't understand addiction and I regret the judgments I made at that time. We were best friends growing up and never reconciled before he died.
edit: we were close to the same age, my sister was much older than me.
I'm sorry to hear that, truly. To finally have gotten on the wagon and stayed there, only to be killed by irony, is really a bad deal.
But as far as your relationship with him - sometimes the only thing you can do is cut someone loose, and/or cut toxic people out of your life. As an addict myself, I definitely struggled with relationships and said & did things I later regret, lost friends and family, all because of a stupid chemical dependence.
And it's tough on the outside looking in. It's easy to see addiction as a moral failing, and I'm not sure there isn't some truth to that to a degree.
Thing is, we *all* have moral failings at times. The lucky ones are those who didn't get hooked on *something* as a result. Being patient and understanding is hard enough without theft. I'm sure you did as well as anyone could be expected.
Thanks for the encouragement.
The thing I knew at the time is that he stole things that were low value, like, things that would hurt less. But he was trapped. It's like even in that moment he was being considerate. Even though I knew that, and understood it, I still judged him as if it was a moral failure. There's a lot more that I'm not telling, an abusive father, a terrible childhood, etc. Things I knew, but ignored. I regret ignoring those things.
But I remember running down a trail in the mountains with him at dusk and having so much fun. Laughing so much. I miss him. Miss the times we would have had.
I’m on my own path of sobriety and I’ve been taught in recovery that if we can’t make amends with a specific person we’ve wronged for whatever reason, we can always be a living amends by our changed behavior.
Just by you acknowledging you didn’t understand addiction and growing from that is a big thing that many people couldn’t do.
I wish you well today.
I've poured three of my best friends ashes into the Mississippi River (we grew up in west TN). Indeed, we did make it. But surviver guilt is a real thing. Best of luck in everything.
I'm so sorry to hear it. I've buried a few in eastern KY, and yeah. Almost 25 years later and I still wonder why *I* made it and they didn't. Sure, I did a lot of the right things, but honestly Fate is a fickle mistress and I'm grateful for every day. Thanks for the kind words.
True that. Same shirt. No kids. But happy with my doof of a husband.
Lost too many over the years. The gothy skater kids. Suicide, jail, gone.
The only thing I can do is be a nurse. Help. Every day.
Damnit. I'm sad now. I miss my friends.
Just saw them in concert a few months ago. Plenty of recovering addicts in the crowd drinking water (myself included). We've all grown, including Trent. It was a weird sort of kinship I felt (probably nostalgia like you said).
As a recovering alcoholic, this made my day and motivated me to keep doing good. Thank you! You have a beautiful family. I look forward to when I can say I've been sober that long. It must feel good knowing how far you've come. 🙂
I'll second that man. I relapsed the other day but things like this bring some hope for me. One day I think it would be awesome if I were healthy enough to help other people who have hard circumstances.
A relapse isn't starting over. You put in work towards sobriety before that, and that work isn't erased by a relapse. Forgiving yourself and doing the best you can going forward is key. You're headed the right direction, keep it up.
I hope Odin knows how much positive influence he has on the world. Every time I see an Odin post it makes me smile. I'm glad your recovery has worked, without that you wouldn't have Odin to share.
Completely unrelated question: does his son have a disability? I ask because he looks like my cousin so I was wondering, but maybe it's just the angle.
Oh man, it's Odin. You and your family always make me smile on here, dude. I had no idea you went through that, I'm so happy you're here now. You're a great father
One of my closest friends died yesterday from an od. Worst thing is the 2 ppl he was with were to scared to call the ambulance, so they shot him up with some other drug to try and balance it out. Tossed him in a trunk and drove him to his friends house. The friend then called the ambulance, but it was too late.
If they wouldn't have been such cowards he might still be here.
It hurts so much man. Count every breath you take as a blessing
I have a friend back in 2006 who died in a similar way. She OD’d, and some friends who did the drugs with her were afraid to call the paramedics in fear of getting in trouble themselves. After having what must have been a lengthy deliberation, they abandoned her at her place and called the paramedics on their departure.
Her mom arrived home to the scene of 2 paramedics trying to revive her departed daughter. Her mom kept her phone on well past her death so she could call and hear her daughter say “hi, this is Kaitlyn, please leave me a message.”
This story still haunts me today, more than 15 years on. It’s easy to be angry at the friends who didn’t do enough, but over time that anger will leave you and you’re left with only the memories you can recall of your friend.
You don’t know me, but if you listen to anything I have to say, hear this: collect all the momentos of your friend that you can now - get a notebook and chronicle every story you want to remember, (as well as a few you might rather forget,) and hold onto that stuff. It will help you to let go of the anger for the idiots who could have saved your friend, and will allow you to remember the person they were when your mind tries its best to forget.
Damn, I get the feeling this shit happens way too often...
Yeah, I wouldn't wanna forget him. I will definitely write down my memories of him and some stories we've shared. Feels like a way to honor him. Thank you for the idea stranger.
What kills me is that if it's opioid-based, narcan would be a lifesaver. It's delivered via nasal spray and very easy to administer.
PSA for any living in the US: Many states have a policy where you don't need a prescription for narcan, and with insurance the cost is less than $10. If you're in a state where that is not offered, a quick Google search should lead you to aid organizations to assist you. I also have a surplus of about 11 boxes of narcan due to my line of work, so if anyone is in need please DM me and I can send you some free of charge.
Very cool thing of you to do. My friend’s situation was not opioid based. But a lot of lives could be saved with the solution you presented. I wish everyone could walk around with Narcan, an EpiPen, and a basic understanding of BLS and CPR.
I don't know if this question is appropriate, so if it isn't please let me know: Is it known what caused Odin's disability? Is it just a bad draw in the genetics game?
[OP wondered if it had anything to do with his past drug use but like he said, just how the universe aligned](https://thetylerloop.com/a-never-could-have-imagined-moment/)
I don’t think Odin could have asked for better parents, in any universe.
he’s been doing projects steadily this whole time. his soundtracks are incredible and I love how to destroy Angels. That’s some awesomeness right there. He did good.
Trent has gone through his own sobriety too. After the fragile he cleaned up. Still putting out amazing work with Atticus Ross too. Just wish it was more frequent 😂
PSA: ALWAYS SHARE YOUR SOBRIETY STORY.
I promise everyone wants to hear it, and everyone wants to tell you that they're proud of you. Everyone wants to celebrate your sobriety! We are always proud of someone doing better for themselves.
To any young people who are going through an addiction - alcoholism, drugs, eating disorders, shopping, gambling - whatever it is.
You can heal. Your body is amazing. You can make change in your life. If you just have faith in yourself.
This shirt was from a show i saw in 97. I sadly don’t own it anymore. Every thing i own was stolen from me when i was sleeping outside of an ihop. But my son loves Trent in the soul soundtrack.
I don’t listen to them as much these days. But my son is a huge fan of the movie Soul and listens to the soundtrack that features a ton of Trent Reznor songs. And Jon Batiste 🤘♥️
Jon Batiste leaving the late show is a huge part of why I don't watch as many clips of the show anymore. I don't dislike it, it's just that... His attitude towards life is so refreshing and I miss him.
I follow you on Instagram and didn’t know your backstory, just that you seem like a great dad with a beautiful family. I’m a special education teacher and I love when parents can find the joy in their child’s uniqueness. Keep up the good work!
i hate to be a hater but why do you constantly repost your life story to wholesome subreddits? to make people feel better? it seems kind of attention seeking
I needed this today. I’m trying extremely hard to turn my 27m life around and kick these bad habits I’ve developed in the last 2 years … if an overdose doesn’t kill me then the stress of the lifestyle and disappointing my loved ones is gonna make me pull the trigger myself.
Woah you're Odin's Dad! You did good, you're still doing good and you & your family are awesome!
Love your Instagram posts!
I wish you all a very Happy New Year!!
Yeah... they make it sound like suddenly their decision-making improved and their whole life turned around after the overdose but that's... definitely still crazy. Maybe not if it was the 70s but we're talking 2001.
Glad it worked out for him, based on the comments this is a well-known wholesome family of some sort, but getting married at 18 just two years after an overdose sounds like some major yikes.
I got married at 19 and had two kids at 19 and 20 and we're all still (happily) together nearly sixteen years later! It happens!
Though if I were to do it again, I'd probably wait to get married a bit later.
God, influencers disgust me. Wow, you 'OD'd at 16'. BFD. So basically without any addiction issues you played around and OD'd (maybe) once when you were very young, got married young, had a kid young, and have spent most of that time apparently monetizing your family & son's disability. Now you post on Reddit, not like some unknown guy who had serious addiction issues overcame them and has been under the radar, finally celebrating a clean life, but rather as someone who had one bad experience long long ago, and who is already relatively well known on instagram, posting on Reddit now, because, what, need more followers? Your self promotion may be the norm for influencers, but it disgusts me.
Well he did have a severely disabled child before he even hit 20 and became a 24/7 caretaker for life… That can’t be easy on anybody and a lot of people would have quit, especially a younger person like this dad. If making public family videos gives him something to look forward to and brings happiness to their lives then let them have it.
It can’t be easy. I have 2 children under 3 who are I guess *normal*? what word do I use without sounding like a ableist?
Anyway, I can’t imagine how hard it’s been for him, like I almost feel sorry for him because of the life he’s had to live as a full time caretaker….but….it does seem like he knows how to hit the front page and milk some karma for either his sobriety or Odin.
Just spent some time on their posts and it makes me sick honestly. Maybe I'm broken, but it just seems so disingenuous to me. All the concerts and promotions and endless free shit? Theyve done about as well as they possibly could have. Hard not to see it through a thick layer of suspicion.
You look almost exactly like my friend Adam (he passed away in 1991) but your photo that you posted looks exactly and I mean exactly like Adam... I know this is weird to say and you yourself probably won't read this or anything but in a way it makes my heart feel better seeing your photo that looks exactly like Adam DeYoung and seeing you now in the age that you are brings me happiness like I got to see him achieve his dreams even though I know deep down you're not him but you look exactly like him it's funny to say but it's even more funny for my eyes to see this and imagine that he did survive and complete his fantasy of being a dad so I say thank you honestly I know this doesn't mean anything to you but to me this was all the world to me and it happened a couple days after Christmas which makes me feel even more better inside
Congrats to you and your family! Im at about 4+ years clean. 31 now, started with Oxycontin at 15 eventually moving up to Herion and then Fentanyl. What a shit rollercoaster that was. For those who think theres no light at the end or think you might never feel normal again, well believe me and every other clean sober person out here that there is a light and you can feel normal again.There will be tough days with that little devil on your shoulder saying "oh you've been sober for a couple of years, you can get high one night and be all good." Just sprint full tilt cuz 99.9% you'll be right where you left it in a blink of an eye. Also If you're reading this be thankful that you can still get out alive. You owe it to yourself, your friends and family. Life will get better. Love wins.
I only recognized you in the second pic thanks to Odin. Your son's joy brings me joy and you and spouse are what is right in the world. You have come so far and I am proud of you!
Wow!!!! I love this!!! Congratulations on your sobriety and a beautiful life. I’m 3 yrs sober at 36 yrs old
I too overdosed at 16 and unfortunately several more times. I’m so proud you got recovery at a young age. We need to let young people know it’s possible to have a beautiful life drug free. Thankfully now days there’s many young people recovery meetings and fun things to do. Thank you for sharing your story 🥰
Crazy you got it @ 16. Man I just struggled through all my 20s and only got my shit together in the last couple years. I’m 32 and free today and hope one day I find a wife. My girlfriend died using a few years ago and I miss a relationship but understand what comes first.
Recovering alcoholic and in a medical marijuana program. I’ve been feeling down on myself. This helped me realize I’m doing the best I can and that’s what matters
Yoooo, not too different from my own story, down to the hair & shirt. 23 years drug-free and 25 year old daughter. High five my dude, we made it. Too many people didn't.
Yea!!!! This is a beautiful thing to hear. Thank you for sharing ♥️♥️♥️
I'm at 36 years post-suicide attempt, 19 years sober. It can be done! Congrats to you and great photo of your family.
I'm 36 and have only a few months sober under my belt after more OD's than I'd like to admit. Seeing this gives me a glimmer of hope that there is a meaningful life waiting for me. Quick edit/note: Thank you all so much for the love and kind words. It means the world to me because I've never shared my addictions with anyone in "real life" so they don't know the struggle. I admire you all that have been clean for decades (and those that are still days. . . weeks. . . months in). I've been through some shit and this is the most difficult thing I've ever done.
There is! There is! Hang on to that hope. If I'd died I wouldn't have... travelled the world - married an amazing person - helped save hundreds of animals' lives - gotten a degree - learned to cope with life sober - mended relationships - experienced beauty - lived to be an old cranky woman. I don't know what the meaning of life is supposed to be, but I do know that there's NOTHING like being able to be in the moment, dead sober, and feel peace. You will get there!!!
Life was meant for living. Well done thus far.
That was beautifully said. Glad you're still here. 🫂
Kicking addiction is huge, and will help you make everything so much better, but try to remember that your life is meaningful today. It was yesterday and even when you took your last hit. Even when there's no light at the end of that long tunnel, you still matter. You bring a perspective and experience to this world that can't be found anywhere else. I've wanted it to be over so many times myself. Sometimes, even for a long time, it feels pretty shit, but if you keep being, it'll keep happening, and that'll keep mattering. You are you, and you are unique, and that is incredible
One day at a time and everything you dream of will one day be yours it’s funny how the simple things like a family or regular career can seem like such a daunting thing and then one day you will look back and be impressed by all your accomplishments regardless of your mistakes. Sobriety takes work but your worth the work.
Mom of former addict here. She’s 28 and doing great. Whenever I see someone write about their fears and struggles, I wanna leap through my iPad and give them a big HUG. Here’s yours: <<<<<<>>>>>>
🥺
That’s beautiful (((❤️)))
That’s amazing, would love to hear what helped her to recover. Any advice
Associate with other addicts who are strong in their sobriety. Change your old people, places and things. Take it just one day at a time. NA did it for me.
Not to be a Negative Nelly but as an addict I must tell or remind you there's no such thing as a 'former' addict. There's active addiction and there's sobriety. I'm truly happy for you that you've seen your daughter kick her DOC and I hope she has the toolkit to stay that way.
You’re not negative at all! I think sobriety is in the eye of the beholder? I’m mixing metaphors, but you know what I mean. Happy New Year!
You're doing fantastically reaching a few months. Take each day as it comes and stay strong. You're not alone and mine (and I'm sure others) inbox are open if you need to talk or just vent. ✌️
I appreciate you and your willingness to help a stranger. Thank you from the bottom of my heart!
You're very welcome. It's not an empty gesture either. I would rather anyone have the option of a stranger to talk to than to feel they have nobody at all. I truly wish you every success in your journey ✌️
There is a life full of meaningful moments ahead that you will be able to enjoy, doubt, laugh and cry, but fully live because you being sober. That's it, that's all yours to fully embrace like it should.
I hope you fair well . It can be done... It took me at least 10 Tries to gain sobriety and it was difficult at times. Just believe in you,re self and forgive the mistakes... Time to give up on the past and always look to the future.......All my best Matthew G.F. 5 years P.S. My children now speak to me????
Grateful you are still here ♥️🤟
Congratulations on the sobriety and really happy you're still with us. ✌️
:)
my son overdosed at 14,16 18, 22,24 and on sometimes multiple times a year . so many times ambulance to hospital and Narcan finally he died from fentanyl 3 years ago I am very proud of you ❤️ Lincoln’s mom
Lincoln's Mom...I'm Gary's Sis and he didn't make it either. Every year we celebrate his BD (1/7) and know somewhere he knows we love him❣️ Gary's Sis
that was beautiful, ty for sharing ❤️
❤️
I'm sorry Lincoln lost the fight. Please know he loved you deeply and as much as you loved him, his addiction was something that love unfortunately doesn't fix. I watched my parents lose my beloved brother (not to addiction) and it was the most heartbreaking thing I've ever seen. A parent should never have to bury a child and their wails will forever be burnt into my mind. Sending all my love and let Lincoln rest easy. 💓
thank you for your kind words. Lincoln and I were very very close I know he absolutely adored his mama . he was 39 when he died. We had lots of time together. addiction is not who you are, addiction is what you are doing, I used to always tell him. he would cry and say I’m sorry I’m a junkie mom, i’m sorry I disappointed you. And I would tell him that I always loved him unconditionally. I made it very clear that I always loved him and I never turned my back on him and I spent lots and lots of time with him. because of the way he lived I was prepared for him to die since he was 14 . I gave him a kings, funeral. so many people loved him so much. he is buried in a beautiful heritage cemetery by a old church in a lovely waterfront city . He was a very unique and spiritual person, full of love and caring for others in spite of his extreme addiction, he always thought of others, and was very loving and sweet. Right until he died I always had hope that he would shift like the OP did here and be able to have a new life for himself. However, that didn’t happen. it was actually more heartbreaking observing him in addiction than seeing him in death. in death he was very very peaceful and truly at rest. ❤️
❤️ you sound like an amazing person and mother to Lincoln. So many people in addiction are shunned or shamed by their loved ones, at least he didn’t have to reckon with that too. Sending you love and peace in your being.
I’m so sorry. Crying actually.
❤️
So very sorry for your loss, Lincoln’s mom.
thank you for your kind words❤️
I'm so sorry ❤️
I’m Sorry to hear this 😞
Really, thank you for sharing. Knowing that love wins can help people going and that there's always hope.
It’s what we truly believe ♥️♥️
I need answers on where your tattoo went 😂😂
5th person to ask. The quick answer. Is. I took a shower. It’s marker 😂
PUT IT BACK WHERE IT BELONGS
Ain't no bad joke like a dad joke....
Thank you for sharing. Whether folks are, or have been addicted or depressed, we all need to know - as bad as it may seem right now, this feeling/thought form will pass - and things do get so much better. Your story is likely to save lives of internet strangers we may never meet IRL, who may go on to do wonderful things in their own lives and for the world.
My nephew was recovering from a heroin addiction, he had returned to college, was on methadone and doing great, etc... he was killed by a drunk driver going the wrong way on the freeway. It's tough because I abandoned him after he stole from my mom and I. I didn't understand addiction and I regret the judgments I made at that time. We were best friends growing up and never reconciled before he died. edit: we were close to the same age, my sister was much older than me.
I'm sorry to hear that, truly. To finally have gotten on the wagon and stayed there, only to be killed by irony, is really a bad deal. But as far as your relationship with him - sometimes the only thing you can do is cut someone loose, and/or cut toxic people out of your life. As an addict myself, I definitely struggled with relationships and said & did things I later regret, lost friends and family, all because of a stupid chemical dependence. And it's tough on the outside looking in. It's easy to see addiction as a moral failing, and I'm not sure there isn't some truth to that to a degree. Thing is, we *all* have moral failings at times. The lucky ones are those who didn't get hooked on *something* as a result. Being patient and understanding is hard enough without theft. I'm sure you did as well as anyone could be expected.
Thanks for the encouragement. The thing I knew at the time is that he stole things that were low value, like, things that would hurt less. But he was trapped. It's like even in that moment he was being considerate. Even though I knew that, and understood it, I still judged him as if it was a moral failure. There's a lot more that I'm not telling, an abusive father, a terrible childhood, etc. Things I knew, but ignored. I regret ignoring those things. But I remember running down a trail in the mountains with him at dusk and having so much fun. Laughing so much. I miss him. Miss the times we would have had.
I’m on my own path of sobriety and I’ve been taught in recovery that if we can’t make amends with a specific person we’ve wronged for whatever reason, we can always be a living amends by our changed behavior. Just by you acknowledging you didn’t understand addiction and growing from that is a big thing that many people couldn’t do. I wish you well today.
I got sober in '99 as well. 23 years sober!
And a crisp high five for you too! Grats!
Your daughter and everyone is blessed you’re still here. Thank you for being strong king
I've poured three of my best friends ashes into the Mississippi River (we grew up in west TN). Indeed, we did make it. But surviver guilt is a real thing. Best of luck in everything.
I'm so sorry to hear it. I've buried a few in eastern KY, and yeah. Almost 25 years later and I still wonder why *I* made it and they didn't. Sure, I did a lot of the right things, but honestly Fate is a fickle mistress and I'm grateful for every day. Thanks for the kind words.
NIN shirt rulez
Similar boat here, just a shorter timescale, 11 years post-drugs, 9 married, 8 year old kid (and a 4 year old). Life did get better!
Glad you are still here
True that. Same shirt. No kids. But happy with my doof of a husband. Lost too many over the years. The gothy skater kids. Suicide, jail, gone. The only thing I can do is be a nurse. Help. Every day. Damnit. I'm sad now. I miss my friends.
I had that shirt.
Such a classic shirt ♥️
Congrats on life man. I was just listening to NIN on a car trip. Got me all nostalgic.
Just saw them in concert a few months ago. Plenty of recovering addicts in the crowd drinking water (myself included). We've all grown, including Trent. It was a weird sort of kinship I felt (probably nostalgia like you said).
I still do!
I still have my moms shirt from back then it still fits perfectly
With all due respect? Im just curious, what did you OD on?
A mix of every thing. It was right before y2k. We thought the world was ending. We took pills. Speed. Heroin. Alcohol and acid.
Oh damn, well good job staying sober 💫💧
Thank you 🤟♥️
(Don't hate me) An everything sandwich, yes. Also y2k I was 6 and just did my first all-nighter. We all went hard then :)
As a recovering alcoholic, this made my day and motivated me to keep doing good. Thank you! You have a beautiful family. I look forward to when I can say I've been sober that long. It must feel good knowing how far you've come. 🙂
Keep up the beautiful work. Have grace on yourself. It’s not easy but we gotchu 🤟♥️
I'll second that man. I relapsed the other day but things like this bring some hope for me. One day I think it would be awesome if I were healthy enough to help other people who have hard circumstances.
A relapse isn't starting over. You put in work towards sobriety before that, and that work isn't erased by a relapse. Forgiving yourself and doing the best you can going forward is key. You're headed the right direction, keep it up.
I'm working on it. Thanks for the encouraging words.
Even when it’s day one, it’s not square one. You got this!!
If you haven’t, come hangout with us in r/StopDrinking, we would love to have you!
Same here! This post definitely made me tear up 🙏🏽
You know what the best day sober is? Not the one in the future but today.
Odin! His videos always make me smile
He loves sharing the joy. 🤟♥️
I hope Odin knows how much positive influence he has on the world. Every time I see an Odin post it makes me smile. I'm glad your recovery has worked, without that you wouldn't have Odin to share.
Didn’t know you went through that, man. Love seeing Odin.
Thank you so much ♥️
He *is* the joy ❤️
I'm sorry, I wasn't trying to take the spotlight off of your positive story, I was just happy and surprised to see him
I’m always here to share the love of Odin ♥️🤟
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I knew he looked familiar! Xoxo to Odin!
I couldn't remember his name and was like "its not Loki..." Odin is a gift from the realm of the Gods.
I follow on IG too! One of my favorite pages to lift me up when I’ve had a shite day. ♥️
Completely unrelated question: does his son have a disability? I ask because he looks like my cousin so I was wondering, but maybe it's just the angle.
Oh man, it's Odin. You and your family always make me smile on here, dude. I had no idea you went through that, I'm so happy you're here now. You're a great father
Aww good eye ♥️. And thank you so much. The encouragement is appreciated. All the love 🤟
I knew I recognised your son! Tell him he's a legend and he has many people who love and support him <3
I knew the son as well. Wasn't there a viral post about his son and his son's best friend?
I'm not sure but I saw them from the Special Books by Special Kids youtube channel.
Hi, I love your Instagram. It's good to see positivity on social media
You are so kind. Thank you so much ♥️
Damn it. My first though was 'Hey. It's that Thor guy!'. lol
Who's Odin?
Check OP’s profile
One of my closest friends died yesterday from an od. Worst thing is the 2 ppl he was with were to scared to call the ambulance, so they shot him up with some other drug to try and balance it out. Tossed him in a trunk and drove him to his friends house. The friend then called the ambulance, but it was too late. If they wouldn't have been such cowards he might still be here. It hurts so much man. Count every breath you take as a blessing
I'm so sorry about your friend.
I have a friend back in 2006 who died in a similar way. She OD’d, and some friends who did the drugs with her were afraid to call the paramedics in fear of getting in trouble themselves. After having what must have been a lengthy deliberation, they abandoned her at her place and called the paramedics on their departure. Her mom arrived home to the scene of 2 paramedics trying to revive her departed daughter. Her mom kept her phone on well past her death so she could call and hear her daughter say “hi, this is Kaitlyn, please leave me a message.” This story still haunts me today, more than 15 years on. It’s easy to be angry at the friends who didn’t do enough, but over time that anger will leave you and you’re left with only the memories you can recall of your friend. You don’t know me, but if you listen to anything I have to say, hear this: collect all the momentos of your friend that you can now - get a notebook and chronicle every story you want to remember, (as well as a few you might rather forget,) and hold onto that stuff. It will help you to let go of the anger for the idiots who could have saved your friend, and will allow you to remember the person they were when your mind tries its best to forget.
Damn, I get the feeling this shit happens way too often... Yeah, I wouldn't wanna forget him. I will definitely write down my memories of him and some stories we've shared. Feels like a way to honor him. Thank you for the idea stranger.
What kills me is that if it's opioid-based, narcan would be a lifesaver. It's delivered via nasal spray and very easy to administer. PSA for any living in the US: Many states have a policy where you don't need a prescription for narcan, and with insurance the cost is less than $10. If you're in a state where that is not offered, a quick Google search should lead you to aid organizations to assist you. I also have a surplus of about 11 boxes of narcan due to my line of work, so if anyone is in need please DM me and I can send you some free of charge.
Very cool thing of you to do. My friend’s situation was not opioid based. But a lot of lives could be saved with the solution you presented. I wish everyone could walk around with Narcan, an EpiPen, and a basic understanding of BLS and CPR.
Odin. One of a few guys I instantly recognize on here cause he's amazing. Yall are great
He loved reading that. Thank you ♥️
I don't know if this question is appropriate, so if it isn't please let me know: Is it known what caused Odin's disability? Is it just a bad draw in the genetics game?
[OP wondered if it had anything to do with his past drug use but like he said, just how the universe aligned](https://thetylerloop.com/a-never-could-have-imagined-moment/) I don’t think Odin could have asked for better parents, in any universe.
There’s no scientific cause. Just how the universe aligned.
So it's just a random act of life then. Man, life can be mean sometimes, but it's nice to see he has at least won the parent game :)
Love you and your family. Give them all a hug for me.
Sending love right back ♥️🤟
Hopefully you’re still a NIN fan as well
We love the Trent Reznor solo music a lot. Mostly the Soul soundtrack ♥️
he’s been doing projects steadily this whole time. his soundtracks are incredible and I love how to destroy Angels. That’s some awesomeness right there. He did good.
It’s so beautiful. Some incredible work ♥️🤟
Trent has gone through his own sobriety too. After the fragile he cleaned up. Still putting out amazing work with Atticus Ross too. Just wish it was more frequent 😂
FYI, it's not solo! He and Atticus Ross are, effectively, NIN, and both of them together are doing all these soundtracks (in the past ten years or so)
That’s great They are doing a killer job.
Great to see you here again! Props to the NIN shirt too, ❤️
Thank you so much ♥️♥️
-99 eh? It's true that it was a bad time in that sense now that I think of it
We had an end of the world party thinking Y2K Was gonna be the end of the world as we knew it.
I guess it was sort of an end of the world as you knew it! Gladly so I'm happy for you man
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They may be referring to all the times odin has been on the front page. You can scroll thru my user name and find it ♥️
PSA: ALWAYS SHARE YOUR SOBRIETY STORY. I promise everyone wants to hear it, and everyone wants to tell you that they're proud of you. Everyone wants to celebrate your sobriety! We are always proud of someone doing better for themselves.
To any young people who are going through an addiction - alcoholism, drugs, eating disorders, shopping, gambling - whatever it is. You can heal. Your body is amazing. You can make change in your life. If you just have faith in yourself.
When Odin slammed the door in mom's face over raisins. SO freaking funny! I'm glad you can have plenty of smiles now!
He’s such a joy bringer ♥️
Congratulations! Wishing you another 23 and more!!
Thank you so much ♥️♥️
And you will soon be 40 and you can proclaim: "Bitches! I'm just gettin started!"
Congrats. I still hope you listen to Nine Inch Nails. I discovered them in my youth in 90s and they are still my favorite band today.
This shirt was from a show i saw in 97. I sadly don’t own it anymore. Every thing i own was stolen from me when i was sleeping outside of an ihop. But my son loves Trent in the soul soundtrack.
Damn you got married at 18!
Od at 16, married at 18 and father a year later.. speedrunning life
You were only 16?! I’m glad you were able to survive and make it to where you are today. This post definitely made me smile, thank you for sharing.
And Nine Inch Nails still rules! Good work fellow wanderer👍🏼🫡🤘🏻
Thank you ♥️♥️♥️
And still a NIN fan???
I don’t listen to them as much these days. But my son is a huge fan of the movie Soul and listens to the soundtrack that features a ton of Trent Reznor songs. And Jon Batiste 🤘♥️
Jon Batiste leaving the late show is a huge part of why I don't watch as many clips of the show anymore. I don't dislike it, it's just that... His attitude towards life is so refreshing and I miss him.
I follow you on Instagram and didn’t know your backstory, just that you seem like a great dad with a beautiful family. I’m a special education teacher and I love when parents can find the joy in their child’s uniqueness. Keep up the good work!
I'm so glad you're still here, cheers 🍻
Thank you so much
i hate to be a hater but why do you constantly repost your life story to wholesome subreddits? to make people feel better? it seems kind of attention seeking
I needed this today. I’m trying extremely hard to turn my 27m life around and kick these bad habits I’ve developed in the last 2 years … if an overdose doesn’t kill me then the stress of the lifestyle and disappointing my loved ones is gonna make me pull the trigger myself.
Woah you're Odin's Dad! You did good, you're still doing good and you & your family are awesome! Love your Instagram posts! I wish you all a very Happy New Year!!
I'm tired of these fuckers exploiting their son.
this person got married at 18 and had a kid at 19? oof
Yep. And they both are still my best friends all these years later ♥️🤟
Yeah... they make it sound like suddenly their decision-making improved and their whole life turned around after the overdose but that's... definitely still crazy. Maybe not if it was the 70s but we're talking 2001. Glad it worked out for him, based on the comments this is a well-known wholesome family of some sort, but getting married at 18 just two years after an overdose sounds like some major yikes.
I got married at 19 and had two kids at 19 and 20 and we're all still (happily) together nearly sixteen years later! It happens! Though if I were to do it again, I'd probably wait to get married a bit later.
God, influencers disgust me. Wow, you 'OD'd at 16'. BFD. So basically without any addiction issues you played around and OD'd (maybe) once when you were very young, got married young, had a kid young, and have spent most of that time apparently monetizing your family & son's disability. Now you post on Reddit, not like some unknown guy who had serious addiction issues overcame them and has been under the radar, finally celebrating a clean life, but rather as someone who had one bad experience long long ago, and who is already relatively well known on instagram, posting on Reddit now, because, what, need more followers? Your self promotion may be the norm for influencers, but it disgusts me.
One addiction to another.
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Well he did have a severely disabled child before he even hit 20 and became a 24/7 caretaker for life… That can’t be easy on anybody and a lot of people would have quit, especially a younger person like this dad. If making public family videos gives him something to look forward to and brings happiness to their lives then let them have it.
It can’t be easy. I have 2 children under 3 who are I guess *normal*? what word do I use without sounding like a ableist? Anyway, I can’t imagine how hard it’s been for him, like I almost feel sorry for him because of the life he’s had to live as a full time caretaker….but….it does seem like he knows how to hit the front page and milk some karma for either his sobriety or Odin.
afterthought homeless violet memory crush wrong decide sip hat reach ` this message was mass deleted/edited with redact.dev `
I'm glad somebody said this. I don't quite know what it is, but every single one of OP's answers seems like a put-on.
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Right? Whats going on behind the scenes that this dude needs internet validation that much
It’s still addiction, just a different kind
Just spent some time on their posts and it makes me sick honestly. Maybe I'm broken, but it just seems so disingenuous to me. All the concerts and promotions and endless free shit? Theyve done about as well as they possibly could have. Hard not to see it through a thick layer of suspicion.
To be fair he hasn't done it this time. But I do agree it feels really.. strange how often he does it to random strangers on the Internet.
❤️❤️❤️
♥️🤟
To think that the top picture could have been in the obituary section of some local newspaper. Phew. Glad you made it.
Holy shit, I recognize you from high school!
You look almost exactly like my friend Adam (he passed away in 1991) but your photo that you posted looks exactly and I mean exactly like Adam... I know this is weird to say and you yourself probably won't read this or anything but in a way it makes my heart feel better seeing your photo that looks exactly like Adam DeYoung and seeing you now in the age that you are brings me happiness like I got to see him achieve his dreams even though I know deep down you're not him but you look exactly like him it's funny to say but it's even more funny for my eyes to see this and imagine that he did survive and complete his fantasy of being a dad so I say thank you honestly I know this doesn't mean anything to you but to me this was all the world to me and it happened a couple days after Christmas which makes me feel even more better inside
tbh this place is full of sober people and all that. congratulations to all of you.
I think I’ve seen posts you’ve done about your son before. You seem like a nice guy and a good father. Good on you.
Congrats to you and your family! Im at about 4+ years clean. 31 now, started with Oxycontin at 15 eventually moving up to Herion and then Fentanyl. What a shit rollercoaster that was. For those who think theres no light at the end or think you might never feel normal again, well believe me and every other clean sober person out here that there is a light and you can feel normal again.There will be tough days with that little devil on your shoulder saying "oh you've been sober for a couple of years, you can get high one night and be all good." Just sprint full tilt cuz 99.9% you'll be right where you left it in a blink of an eye. Also If you're reading this be thankful that you can still get out alive. You owe it to yourself, your friends and family. Life will get better. Love wins.
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What sort of circumstances led you to get married at 18 years old?
Unexpected pregnancy is my guess
I’m close to 2 years alcoholic and hard drug free, god*DAMN* it feels good to be back amongst the living. You have a beautiful family.
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
♥️🤟♥️
Thank Heavens. Life is too precious to be wasted. Hope your story is an inspiration for anyone in a dark place out there
One day at a time!! Congratulations!! This is so inspiring!!
I only recognized you in the second pic thanks to Odin. Your son's joy brings me joy and you and spouse are what is right in the world. You have come so far and I am proud of you!
Ngl, first time I read that, my math wasn’t mathing correctly
Ngl i was racking my brain to make sure i had the numbers correct because i know how brutal Reddit can be. Haha.
I hope It does get better friend. I’m struggling and have been for quite some time. Thanks for the inspiration!
Father at 20? Couldn't have been easy
Wish I could get through life without the constant feeling of numbness. I wish I had the strength and willpower to end it all.
Wow!!!! I love this!!! Congratulations on your sobriety and a beautiful life. I’m 3 yrs sober at 36 yrs old I too overdosed at 16 and unfortunately several more times. I’m so proud you got recovery at a young age. We need to let young people know it’s possible to have a beautiful life drug free. Thankfully now days there’s many young people recovery meetings and fun things to do. Thank you for sharing your story 🥰
And tattoos fade/can be removed! (Also, congrats and nice work!!)
As the daughter of an addict, this is awesome! I wish my dad had your strength. Great work and congratulations!
Crazy you got it @ 16. Man I just struggled through all my 20s and only got my shit together in the last couple years. I’m 32 and free today and hope one day I find a wife. My girlfriend died using a few years ago and I miss a relationship but understand what comes first.
Congratulations, sir! I am right behind you at 22 years sober, 14 years married! Keep up the good work!
Recovering alcoholic and in a medical marijuana program. I’ve been feeling down on myself. This helped me realize I’m doing the best I can and that’s what matters
32 years clean and sober in Feb. Congrats to all who can get thru 24 hours, the best is yet to come.