Ryan Penley

ABOUT

I didn’t think I could be sober and I was convinced my life was down the tubes without any chance of recovery.  What I learned is people like a success story, but what really changes the world is a comeback story.  A story where a person completely fucks up their life and crawls out of the darkness.

I have made a few dollars and I have been homeless.  Substance abuse took over my life completely.  Opiates, heroin, meth, and of course alcohol.  I had lost so much control over my body and mind that I once defecated myself on a city bus.  Yes, I was the guy who smelled like shit that everyone decided to scoot away from.  I was placed under a 72-hour psychiatric hold more times than I can recall.  Diagnosed with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and depression.  My addicted mind fooled me every four hours that getting high and drunk was not only a good move but the best thing I could possibly do for everyone. 

Eventually, the destruction of my body led me into a coma.  My body and mind were dead.  My body temperature was 85 degrees and I was airlifted into a town for triage.  Why did I wake up?  I believe there is a reason for bringing me back from death and I want to find out why.

So, how did I break free from addiction and substance abuse?  I got to work.  I took responsibility for myself.  I looked in the mirror and made a decision.  I decided to take a small initial step.  That step turned into three and of course, I was slipping backward at times.  However, those small steps and wins developed into a stride.  I implemented tools and gathered support wherever I could find it. 

Now, I am achieving my Master’s Degree in Addictions Counseling.  I want my test to become a testimony.  Take one thing away from this.  If I can do it, you can do it.