Hi, I’m Harry, Mad’s son. Today, I’m proud to share that I’ve officially been in recovery for 13 years.

For nearly a decade, I battled addiction and dealt with an incredible feeling of shame that made me feel like there wasn’t a way out.

Now I’m over a decade into my recovery journey, and if I’ve learned anything, it’s that no one should ever need to face addiction or recovery alone.

Today, I’m grateful I don’t have to be silent, for the people in my life who support me, and to have an opportunity to try to help others who are where I was.

My story is one of many. For too many who are still struggling, the stigma around substance use still looms large — and it’s standing in the way of finding a path to recovery.

That’s why I’m grateful for my mom, who’s been by my side through it all and is working in Congress to end the opioid crisis, break the stigma of substance use disorder, and advocate for legislation that will save lives.

That’s also why I’m sharing my story today — to remind people that there is hope in recovery and that the more we talk about it, the more we break the stigma around substance use.

Thank you for taking the time to read this all the way through.

With gratitude,
Harry

If you or someone you know is seeking help for substance use disorder, please call 1-800-662-HELP (4357) or 1-800-487-4889 (TTY).

This toll-free helpline connects you to a professional from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, SAMHSA. SAMHSA can help locate local resources, and services are available in both English and Spanish. All conversations are confidential.