ADDICTION STOPS HERE.
Recovery Stories.
Russ L.
A Journey of Recovery
Russ L's Alumni Story at Texas Recovery Centers
Finding Hope at Texas Recovery Centers
Russ L’s path to recovery brought him to Texas Recovery Centers in October 2023. During his two-month stay, which included both residential treatment and a Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP), Russ found more than just clinical support—he discovered a community.
“I love my time there,” Russ reflects. “God built lasting relationships not just with clients but also with staff members that I’m proud to still have some communication with.”
This sense of connection and belonging proved crucial for Russ, laying a foundation for his ongoing recovery journey.
The Challenge of Relapse and the Importance of Continued Care
Despite the progress made at TRC, Russ’s journey took an unexpected turn.
“Unfortunately, after I left TRC, I did have a relapse that took me to another treatment center down in South Texas,” he admits.
This 30-day program provided additional insights, particularly about the role of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) in sustained recovery.
Russ’s experience highlights a critical truth in addiction treatment: recovery is often a non-linear process, and setbacks can become opportunities for growth and learning.
Learning from Past Experiences
Russ’s history with AA and sobriety offers valuable lessons.
“About 13 years before that, I had two years of sobriety. I was an AA member, and once I stopped going to AA and stopped working my steps after two years, I started thinking that I could do it on my own,” he shares.
This period of “white knuckle sobriety” lasted for stretches as long as 67 months, but as Russ notes, “It was never really lasting, and it was never really sufficient for my sobriety.”
The Turning Point
In June 2023, Russ reached what he describes as his “low point.” He recounts a harrowing experience:
“I was on the kitchen floor of my home in Bedford, Texas, and my mom had just flown in from Portland, Oregon, because I called her in the middle of a blackout the night before. I was in an alcoholic psychosis… My body started to go into shock. I remember vaguely laying on the kitchen floor, screaming for help. My muscles were in atrophy, and I was starting to go into the beginning of a seizure.”
This crisis led to hospitalization, multiple ER visits, and eventually, a week in detox. It was a wake-up call that Russ couldn’t ignore.
“I finally realized I had enough,” he says. “I just knew after all the times that I had relapsed that I had to take this seriously. I was going to die.”
Embracing Recovery and Service
Today, Russ celebrates over 10 months of continuous sobriety. His recovery program is built on active participation in AA, sponsorship, and service work.
“I share at meetings in Grapevine, Texas, often. I work with sponsees now. I am trying to get as involved in service work as I can be,” he explains.
Russ has found particular meaning in working with veterans and military nonprofits, addressing issues like PTSD and addiction among service members. This work not only contributes to his own recovery but allows him to make a positive impact on others.
“This has been absolutely life-saving for me,” Russ affirms, “to be a resource to others, to serve in my capacity to help them with things like their mental health, with their addiction issues.”
The Lasting Impact of Texas Recovery Centers
Reflecting on his time at TRC, Russ expresses gratitude for the tools and insights he gained.
“I can’t say enough about what TRC taught me when it came to the cognitive behavioral therapy side of things,” he says. “They also taught me about my power and things of that nature. I learned so much while I was there and am so grateful to so many people that are there.”
These teachings have been instrumental in Russ’s ongoing recovery, providing a foundation for personal growth and the ability to help others.
A Commitment to Ongoing Growth and Service
Russ’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance, support, and giving back.
“I’m on the road of destiny and working on being a better version of me so that way, I can also be a better version for other people,” he shares. “Hopefully, I can continue to have an impact on others in society because that’s what it’s about, and that’s what I love to do.”
His journey illustrates that recovery is not just about abstaining from substances—it’s about building a fulfilling life and contributing to the well-being of others.
Hope for the Future
Russ L’s story serves as an inspiration to those still struggling with addiction and a reminder of the transformative power of comprehensive treatment and ongoing support. His journey from the depths of addiction to a life of purpose and service exemplifies the mission of Texas Recovery Centers: to provide the tools and support necessary for lasting recovery.
If you or a loved one are struggling with addiction, know that help is available. Texas Recovery Centers offers comprehensive, personalized treatment programs designed to address the unique needs of each individual. Don’t wait to start your journey to recovery.
If you or a loved one is battling addiction, Texas Recovery Centers is here to help.
Call Texas Recovery Centers today at 888-354-2194 to speak with a compassionate advisor and take the first step towards a brighter, sober future.
