Growing up, I had always been fascinated by the military and the idea of serving my country as a Green Beret. I trained hard, pushed myself to my limits, and was determined to achieve my dream. However, I was injured on a airborne operation at Sicily drop zone at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. I was showered with narcotics from, military pain management, and civilian pain management, all at the same time. I began experimenting on how to administer the drugs and soon found myself addicted to them. At first, I thought I could handle it and that it wouldn't affect my performance or my ability to achieve my goal. But as the addiction grew stronger, I found myself unable to focus on my training, constantly craving the next hit, and struggling to keep up with the physical demands of military life. I tried to hide my addiction, but it soon became obvious to my superiors that something was wrong. I finally overdosed. I was given an opportunity to seek help for my addiction. Bradford health services in Warrior Alabama was my first inpatient rehab, March 2010. And so,I chose to seek help. however, I chose pharmaceuticals over my career and was eventually medically retired from the military.
It was a long and difficult road to recovery, but with the support of my family, friends, and fellow soldiers, I was able to overcome my addiction and get back on track towards achieving my dream of becoming a Green Beret. However, the damage had already been done. The years of drug abuse had taken a toll on my body and mind, and I knew that I would never be able to reach the level of fitness and skill required for such a prestigious position. I had let my addiction ruin my dream, and it was a harsh reality to face. But I also knew that I had learned valuable lessons along the way - about the dangers of drug abuse, the importance of seeking help when needed, and the true cost of allowing addiction to take control of your life. Though I may never wear the coveted Green Beret, I am grateful for the second chance I have been given and the opportunity to rebuild my life and make better choices for my future. And who knows, maybe one day I will find a new dream to chase, one that is free from the grip of addiction and filled with hope and possibility.
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You have a powerful story Tony, I hope you are caring that message to others that are in the rooms?
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