Michael celebrated one year of sobriety on June 24th, 2024. He delves into his deep-rooted battle with addiction. Michael details his life as an everyday meth user, starting at the age of 21, despite coming from a family with a history of substance use. He recounts his initial meth experience at an after-hours party in Fort Lauderdale and how he got entangled in a drug-fueled lifestyle that included sex clubs and parties. Michael shares his struggles with heroin and his transition into IV drug use, his relationships, and the domestic violence he endured, which led to contracting HIV. He speaks candidly about his eventually turning to escorting as a means of survival and how the COVID-19 lockdowns brought him back to the East Coast. The pivotal moment for Michael came when he received a federal target letter, prompting him to seek recovery. He discusses his path to sobriety, including attending meetings at CCAR, taking care of his aunt, and engaging in therapy. Michael's story is a testament to the resilience required to overcome addiction and the transformative power of recovery.

00:00 Introduction to TJ and Michael

00:08 Michael's Journey into Addiction

02:50 The Party Lifestyle and Meth

03:52 Experiences with Different Drugs

05:15 Struggles and Turning Points

14:25 Life in the Gay Community

25:05 Relationships and Domestic Violence

32:38 Path to Recovery

36:05 Finding New Pathways

39:12 Conclusion and Reflections----Across the Web----

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