Grief and loss do not follow rules. In this episode, we open the door to a deeply personal journey through loss after overdose—a kind of pain that can feel invisible to the world. You’ll hear one story, told not just with words but with silence, breath, and all the emotions in between. It’s about remembering the person behind the addiction, holding space for the questions that may never get answers, and finding moments of light in the darkest hours. This isn’t just one story—it’s for anyone who’s ever felt alone in their grief.

Addiction often begins quietly, slipping in through moments of loneliness, stress or just curiosity. For one person their substance use first felt harmless maybe even necessary. But over time that casual relief turned into dependance. Life narrowed, promise were broken, relationships strained. Shame grew louder than hope and the substance became the centre of everything.

They realised they were no longer living but just existing. Recovery began with small steps: asking for help, admitting the truth out loud, attending a meeting. It wasn't easy. There were relapse, regrets and days when it felt impossible.

Today they stay in recovery by staying connected to the recovery community and the wider community.

Recovery isn't a finish line, it is a daily practice. And each day sober is a quiet victory and proof that healing is possible, and that life they once thought was lost is still within reach.

This is a follow up to the previous episode where I as a family member navigates the emotional storm of having a loved one in addiction. From fear and frustration to moments of hope. I share what I feel it is like to live in the shadow of someone else's struggle, and how it reshapes love, boundaries, and identity. This is my side of the story, not just about him, but about what it has done to me, and how I am learning to hold on, let go, and heal

This is a brief monologue of what I as a family member of a loved one in addiction has went through. This story is based on some of the issues we as a family have encountered and how this disease has affected us.

This is the start of a monthly podcast which shall share stories of all aspects of recovery and addiction. We hope this helps in some way to give and insight into this world. We hope it supports , educates and lets people realise they are not alone.