Alcoholic interview-Brandon

[@markoembarko9045]

I'm an alcoholic too. Been drinking for about 20 years heavily everyday and it finally started to catch up to me. Luckily, one month and two weeks sober now. Just taking it day by day, moment by moment. That's all you can do. I hope you can do the same Brandon. Just know, you'll never fully be ready, you just have to do it. I drank to numb my pain, as many of us do but in the end, we are only hurting and killing ourselves. It sucks that drinking is so glamorized in our culture because many of us get lost along the way. Big hugs ❤ I feel for you. I am you. Edit: December 2023 I'm 2 months sober today 🤗 New edit January 2024: 3 months sober today 🤗 I had to put down my longtime furry companion on Saturday and I've been devastated. I feel this huge desire to maintain my sobriety in honor of my sweet girl, Jewels. Thank you for all of your support everyone and for checking in! Congratulations to those who have wrote in on the comments sharing your dates! UPDATE: Feb 2024 (4 months sober!!) Update: March 2024 (5 months sober!) Update: April 2024 (6 months sober and going strong! Half a year babyyy!) Thank you for all of your encouragement & support! Update May 2024 7 months sober today guys!! Grateful every second, every day! Update: June 2024 Great news! 8 months sober!! I'm a few days late updating but my sobriety date is the 16th! Thank you to all of you who have been following my journey! ❤ #IWNDWYT Update July 16th 24- 9 months sober! I'm late updating this and pretty soon, it will be 10 months. It's refreshing to look back at this comment and see how different the journey was then. I promise you guys that are struggling, sobriety makes life better. Hardships will happen, but facing them without grabbing a bottle of booze is much better! Grace of God, one day at a time! Edit: Update! 8/16/2024 10 months sober guys! It's wild to think the year mark is coming up in two months. I've had some tempting moments, like those thoughts that come up and say "One will not hurt you." Ha! No but really, I know better. It's never been just one for me and it's never going to be just one SOoooo let me not open that can of worms because sobriety feels great. Thank you to those who have followed my journey and the journey of this comment. Mocktails cheers to a year in two months guys! ❤️ #IWNDWYT Ps: I shared this recently and I felt I should come to this comment and share it as well. I hope it will help someone ❤️ It can happen that quickly... I just celebrated my ten month sobriety on the 16th of this month. Fast forward to last night and I get into a conversation with my mom that was extremely triggering. I go to the liquor store and pick up a pack of beer. The first pack I've bought in 10 months. I'm crying on the way home anticipating the binge soon to follow, yet also beating myself up in pre disappointment. I get home and put the beer in the fridge as I think "This isn't worth it. This isn't worth it." I laid in bed triggered out of my mind for hours not being able to calm down but... I didn't open a beer. I didn't drink a beer. And I made it another day. ❤️ But it can happen that quickly.... IWNDWYD Update: I forgot to update this in September but it's October and today is my one year sobriety! Thank you SO much for all of your support! You guys rock!!

[@CowboyDerp]

Congratulations on sobriety!

[@jborden18]

WOW!! Good for you!! A month and a half and it's probably felt like an eternity!!

[@randallhenshew2476]

Same here, been clean 4 months now and it is still 1 day at a time. Stick with it we got this, but the world 🌎 makes it so hard but my higher power is with me 👍🏾💪🏾❤️💯

[@michellerjackson5776]

​@@randallhenshew2476Amen. Prayers for strength for us all going through recovery.

[@markoembarko9045]

@@CowboyDerp Thank you!!

[@dirtypatwalsh]

Stay strong bro. I quit drinking 23 years ago. I was pretty much drunk from my mid teens till I was 31 and I got alcoholic hepatitis. I was drinking 20-35 standard drinks a day I figured (worked as a bartender) and the doc gave me a year to live. I’ve had a few little relapses but I’m still alive and happy to be free from the booze. Now I’m 53. My quality of life went up about 500% after I quit. Not telling you what to do, only sharing experience.

[@jaynesegman7847]

you almost died. keep checking on your liver function

[@firstlast8258]

Quitting is for quitters

[@davida7559]

@@firstlast8258you get the trophy 🏆 for being a jack ass. Congratulations 👏

[@locals420]

I binge drink twice a week and feel so sick that I can barely function for a day or two after. I want to quit so bad but can't manage to string more than a couple weeks together at a time. Can I ask what you do to fill the time now and what helped you finally quit?

[@Katherine_xs]

Oh god, congrats in facing your addiction and showing yourself the love you deserve instead of poisoning yourself

[@hustlemami8732]

I dont know why i got so emotional listening to Brandons story. Maybe its because he is a good person and so many bad things happened to him. I wish you all the best Brandon 😢

[@Sherri84]

Same. He seems like he's not completely lost and he has a chance. Unfortunately my friend was too far gone and his heart gave out in March from drinking.

[@Iamdivine1306]

I did too😢

[@Emily-y9j3f]

It strikes me as so tragic that no matter how much of a monster a parent is, a child will always revere and adore them. I worked at a rescue shelter for kids for years and I saw this again and again. I would love to hear an interview with his sister. The amount of trauma in this family is overwhelming. His loyalty to his father is heartbreaking.

[@aliciakretsch752]

Sometimes loyalty becomes our weakness 😢

[@5thdimension625]

Every word you stated is true. This is why children rarely recover from parental abandonment unless they get clean and work on the unprocessed trauma. Children are willing to go to the grave to protect the parent that wasn’t available to them.

[@sylwiakowalczyk3270]

Oh yeah! Trauma bond can be a bitch! His father was a sex offender and couldn’t work. So his child is now trapped and has to take care of a criminal. What a blessing. We owe nothing to our parents, and if they were good we can visit them and call them once in a while. Being a slave is not life.

[@Mana_Sun]

Man fuck parents.

[@Rock.me.gently.7]

Loyalty can be a strange thing. A mother can literally set her child on fire. When the child wakes up, the mother is the first thing the child will ask for.

[@vanlifebayou]

I quit alcohol, as a social drinker three months ago. I’m in better physical & mental shape. Crazy how that after work wine hour can become vodka shots in a.m to get the day going. It was harder than I ever imagined. The research shows how toxic alcohol is. Best wishes dude! You can do it

[@col.cottonhill6655]

Then comes the cocaine and pills! I'm so glad I quit drinking

[@moonytheloony6516]

@@col.cottonhill6655 Are you saying drinking leads to cocaine and pills?

[@benhutto6587]

I quit over a year ago. I would try to just maintain 4 beers per day, would keep slipping out of it. Quit and never looked back. I could not imagine taking another drink of alcohol.

[@jborden18]

​@@col.cottonhill6655 alcohol is a whole other entity in its self. I can see how it can lead to other stuff. Unfortunately 😒

[@georgemaranville3305]

@@moonytheloony6516 he’s saying it did for him.

[@leesa3809]

I am an alcoholic, I will be sober 4yrs in May of 2024. I'm in my 60s now, quitting was a huge life changing movement for me. I drank myself into blackouts for 39yrs. Just woke up one day and decided I'd had more than enough of that lifestyle and all the bs that cones with it. God I look and feel better than I have my whole life. I wish nothing but the best for this fella. God Bless

[@jaynesegman7847]

i hope your liver will heal

[@abigailrand]

congrats on almost four years!!!

[@leesa3809]

@@abigailrand Thank You

[@margaretwebb389]

In the same spot! In my 60’s and have decided to get a life without this poison. You are inspiring & thanks for sharing!

[@DanRudyIII]

I stopped today. Somewhat functional alcoholic. I drink all day everyday and my body has had enough. Your story is inspiring. Let’s all be well.

[@Natbrookart]

Another fellow alcoholic here - 3 years sober. One day at a time. I'm sending love out to everyone who needs it this holiday season.

[@therealelgwapo]

I genuinely feel sorry for this guy he really seems like deep down a good dude

[@Dell7788]

Being a alcoholic doesn't mean you are a bad person

[@yourmom-hm1dd]

Same. He caught bad breaks early on. Just sucks. Life sucks 😪

[@JesusSaves77799]

I agree! But let’s not feel sorry for him. Let’s all pray for him! There is power in pray! You can do it Brandon! I pray to God for all good things in life for you Brandon, and for God to remove the desire for alcohol from you (and have you start to even hate the taste)! I also pray to God for blessings for all of the viewers on here and for Mark as well, and that we all may find You and grow closer to You every day in Jesus’s Holy Name, Amen! 🙏💖

[@firstlast8258]

@@Dell7788I’ll drink to that 🍻

[@Luxie19]

I agree 😢

[@ashleyengle5149]

I love seeing all of the positive comments from the people who have gotten sober. It makes me hopeful...my partner is coming home from rehab tomorrow so this is a new & scary journey for us both. ♥️

[@sharmisthabhattacharya1242]

I wish you well.....

[@ashleyengle5149]

Thank you!!

[@latigresadragon8]

Good luck to you and your partner🙏🏻 maybe check out some ALANON meetings. They have online meetings.

[@christophersigl6252]

Number one is don't take it personally. Number two, through therapy and group I've realized that what they see and what you see are two different things. They believe what they see as truth and so do you. Both are right. Both are wrong. The key is that they get to a point where they see themselves, bit through your eyes. That's what did it for me. The level of fuckery our own brains play on ourselves is severely understated. Good luck, your already a hero

[@lindataylor5477]

Both my sons are alcoholics. One quit on his own and is now over a year and a half sober. The other had to do a month of rehab last spring to get things under control. He is now over 7 months sober. We are all living brand new lives with a whole lot less stress and worry! Encourage your loved one to continue the meetings, daily if necessary. Do the counseling and the hard work they have started. A whole new life is possible and they will never regret this. I understand all too well your excitement and apprehension. I pray that rehab was all the help they needed and you too can know how good sobriety is for everyone involved. ❤

[@Dad-in-WA]

This guy had a rough upbringing. Mom comes and goes, dad tried his best but struggled, 16y old became breadwinner of the house! Alcohol has no benefits. Last drink I had was in July and feel great! Hope Brandon overcomes his struggles..thanks for sharing

[@HippityHopity]

Congratulations. There are two reasons why we drink. To feel something, or to feel nothing. Good luck to you. 🙏🏼

[@Mint-kj9kw]

@@HippityHopity And there are people that have never had a single sip of alcohol because we don't understand what the fuss is all about????

[@eightosaurusspelunk1598]

The ad I had during this video was for champagne

[@AnneLien1987]

Poor dude, he seems so sweet and genuine. I hope he gets his life together.

[@levimcgee2659]

Just hit 18 months last week! I was a bad alcoholic. Keep going my brothers and sisters! The struggle is real. God Bless!

[@aarondavid5866]

your struggle with yourself

[@DeathBeforeComicSans]

I don’t know if this makes sense, but when I hear these stories, it makes me try even harder to be the kind of parent each one of these beautiful souls deserved to have. I’m wishing you all the best, Brandon.

[@lorena250274]

I think this is one of the great things that come out of Mark's work.

[@beritter]

I agree 100 percent. It makes me want to be the best mom I can possibly be.

[@breannarebegila570]

I agree!

[@shantelsaenz8991]

Yes, I agree. A lot of our fellow humans suffering from addiction have childhood trauma in common. It makes me be more aware as a mother to try my best

[@madisensullivan1660]

Me too!

[@dixie19591]

Omg,I am heart broken for Brandon. What a tragic life you have lived in this short 30 years. Brandon you are a kind, loving soul that shows through in this interivew. I can't imagine all the sad heart breaks you have been through and tried to help out and only to be heart broken again. You have been a gift to your family. I pray you can have the strength to pull yourself out of this situation.

[@GRyanBee]

I quit alcohol too 32 days ago, and havent looked back since. Since then, ive become more involved with my loved ones, had better friendships with my people, and feel amazing in the mornings as I'm also type 1 diabetic and have instances pf higher than normal sugars mainly while i was drinking. Praise God. 👏

[@Natbrookart]

You've got this. I'm proud of you.

[@RearviewMirror-ij2pr]

HAve you had your liver checked?

[@mickjames666]

Who cares

[@RearviewMirror-ij2pr]

@@mickjames666 What a stupid response, for ignorance is not bliss.

[@mickjames666]

@@lindzS81 ok holy roller. Go pray to your God

[@tammic2016]

Brandon seems like such a sweet genuine person. He’s so young and can turn this around and have many wonderful years ahead of him. I hope he can get help and be the person he was truly meant to be.

[@WENCHintheTINFOILhat]

Hey Brandon. Just wanted to say thank you for telling your story. Hope you know there are ppl out here who genuinely wish you all the best.

[@KatBurnsKASHKA]

Brandon, I am so proud of you that you've gotten this far. You were dealt a tremendous amount of stress and heartache in early life, and I can feel your deep sadness. Take it day by day. Sobriety happens day by day.

[@clbaird40]

God bless you Brandon. As someone who spent about 10 years either having a hangover or being drunk, you have to stay sober. What a horrible way to exist alcoholism is.

[@mikekristin7201]

That's a beautiful soul who had the weight of the world thrusted upon him at a saddeningly young age. He's still accomplished. Great things while carrying a boulder on his back. Brother, if you see this you are a fucking superhero and you just have one more fight left in you. Kick the booze. It'll be the hardest fight of your life, but you have too much awesome to leave this world. A dude in Chicago is rooting for you

[@amandaalvarez6931]

My heart goes out for this man, he seems like the sweetest soul. Sending you a hug Brandon, you are beyond strong. Thank you for sharing your story!

[@RadRedhead222]

You can do it, Brandon. Go to a treatment facility, detox safely, find a sober living facility afterwards, and you can start your life all over again. This doesn't have to be it.

[@MegaLBreezy]

I'd rather keep drinking..

[@sethkubicek4295]

@@MegaLBreezy she wasn’t talking about you. Keep drinking all you want

[@Honey_Daddy]

​@@sethkubicek4295I'd guess someone kind enough to cheer him on for sobriety would likely do the same for others.

[@whiteyfisk9769]

Yea, just quit drinking and get a job making absolute pennies while food and housing cost hundreds of thousands now for the most basic of shit boxes. Work your guts out while simultaneously being called lazy by the boomers who took the most prosperous nation on earth and turned it into the most indebted nation known in recorded history. Yea, no....sometimes you gotta do what you gotta do to face each day.

[@DrMackSplackem]

NALTREXONE is the answer.

[@AngieCollins-h7i]

I’ll never forget going to a bar and picking up my dad’s belongings because he died there (alcohol poisoning). He was 50 years old. 😢My mom died from addiction as well. Very unfortunate to grow up in that situation but once I could take care of my self …I did. I knew I never wanted to live a life like that and I never have.

[@LittleWhoo]

I'm so sorry you had to lose your parents that way

[@jerseyGeminiLaura726]

Good morning from Columbus Ohio Mark. This man is a good person who’s gone through so much. God bless him

[@debradavis9589]

❤ good morning from Oklahoma

[@marshamorrell2769]

What a nice young man. Seems like he tries so hard. And he cares for others deeply. I wish him the best. I drank for 50 years and stopped. You can do it too.

[@pcbondart]

thank you, over 40 years sober, this's probly the first meeting ive made in a few decades, one day at a time

[@dameanvil]

00:01 🏠 Brandon grew up in Kansas, mostly with his father after his parents split when he was young. 01:19 🚸 He dropped out of school at 16 to support his father financially due to his father's health issues and struggles finding work. 06:19 💔 Brandon's father passed away when Brandon was 25, triggering heavy drinking and emotional breakdowns. 11:33 ✈ Despite personal hardships, Brandon became a flight attendant, fulfilling his dream but struggled with heavy drinking throughout his career. 16:26 💳 His gambling addiction led to substantial debt and loss of stability, eventually moving in with family but facing conflicts due to his alcoholism. 20:57 🚓 Brandon's addiction escalated, resulting in legal issues, self-awareness about his problem, and struggles with withdrawals. 22:06 🍸 Experiencing multiple family deaths within a short time led to depression and resistance to medication. 23:00 💍 Fell deeply in love at 20 with a girl from Guatemala, proposed after meeting her in person, but the relationship ended due to differences and inability to be independent. 25:00 🍺 Started drinking heavily due to stress and as a coping mechanism; unable to sleep without alcohol. 26:33 🏙 Moved to LA from Kansas due to family issues, initially trying to change life's trajectory. 27:11 🏠 Experienced homelessness for a period, struggled in shelters due to relapses. 29:11 🔫 Faced dangers and threats in Skid Row, experienced robbery at gunpoint. 30:47 🤕 Health deteriorating due to severe alcoholism, fearing a short life expectancy. 31:40 😔 Emotionally drained from going from success to the worst situation in the family, feeling desperate and struggling financially. 32:21 🌟 Learned from experiences: a strong emphasis on avoiding addiction, staying grateful, loving those around, and growing from mistakes.

[@wesleyAlan9179]

Nicely done ✌️🤟

[@jborden18]

Thank you for breaking it down 😊

[@mrjones7644]

Can you always do this plz 😮

[@knado8135]

​@@jborden18this is done by A.I.

[@Gram820]

@dameanvil...just go away. We r not idiots; we can listen to and understand these interview without your annoying input!

[@PracticallyMagic88]

Such a heart of gold 💛 this man. I hope he gets on the path of sobriety.. he’s got so much to live for.

[@kidmods1]

What a great guy. You are a hard worker who got off track with all the bad things happening to your family and your life. You can get it together. Do it for your dad. I wish the best for you man

[@Avievan91]

As a recovering alcoholic, I can honestly say that we are a group of people who are very sensitive and take on way too much , resulting in our illness progressing! This guy is a sweetheart ❤

[@mariposaazul4450]

My husband has been sober for 27 years. I met him sober and I never seen him in active addiction but he’s mentioned to me how bad the withdrawal symptoms were. Alcohol is one of the worst addiction out there! Brandon thank you for sharing ur story. I’m gonna keep you in my prayers ❤

[@bethanyhaynes1123]

I like this guy. Seems like a real genuine dude that took care of his family and works hard, in spite of his addiction. I hope he gets the help he needs soon.

[@reidellis1988]

All I see and hear is a guy who cares more about other people, than himself. He is gold.

[@EselCheapo]

Ive never been in addiction but I started drinking every night after my dad died, and a broken engagement… I always wanted to be a drug counselor and landed an opportunity to take a year program to be certified all while dealing with the darkness of alcohol….one day in class I asked myself how are you going to school to be a counselor and you are copping with alcohol…so I instantly snapped and used healthier coping skills to deal with life….so I definitely understand how easy it is to slip into alcoholism…positive vibes to you Brandon and anyone else dealing with addiction💙

[@JaZmine147]

With what coping mechanisms did you replace your addiction with?

[@EselCheapo]

@@JaZmine147 well I got into therapy to address the depression and anxiety …prayer to God was definitely key but along w that I started going to the gym, taking walks, some grounding techniques along w deep breathing and meditation…I was fully aware of the consequences because I have family that suffered from alcoholism so I kept that in the forefront of my mind and my kids were my motivation definitely….they needed their mother to be present so I pushed to address my issues and not let it overcome me

[@JaZmine147]

@@EselCheapo Thank you for replying. Physical exercise and emotional support whilst having a bigger goal in life to be there for your kids... Seems like you have the path figured out. Keep going!!! ❤️

[@theblackschaos]

What did you do? I’m struggling lost my mom, my husbands mom, my husbands dad and my best friends all within 5 years. The last 3 years or so I got severely depressed and this last year I really started drinking bad. I work out everyday and run and eat healthy, but then at night I drink. I’m desperate to quit but I’m terrified of withdraws. I don’t wake up needing it but I definitely start feeling weird after about 18 hours. I’m hoping I can quit it’s been one day but I said that’s it December I’m getting completely sober for my health. I’m just praying I can stick with it 🙏🏼 it’s so embarrassing because I know I’m struggling.

[@theblackschaos]

@@EselCheapoI need to do this. This sounds exactly like my situation.

[@AJ-wo7qh]

The comments on this video give hope and are inspiring. So many people sharing similar stories, sobriety journey, struggles… Here for the vibe and wish all of SWU’s interviewees had this kind of support and love shown.

[@allnaturaledgedesigns]

I’ll have almost 3yrs sober due to starting out watching soft white under belly then got involved 12 step program and taking it seriously today. My life is so much better, you can do it too.

[@a.marvellehoneyman4560]

Congratulations 🎉 that’s awesome 👏 keep it up

[@kweenz109]

That's amazing. People trash this channel for "exploiting" people. These souls WANT to talk about it and look how it helped you! Congrats and I wish you all the best

[@minoozolala]

@@kweenz109The channel is both exploitative and a release for some people. Exploitative in the sense that Mark makes money from people at their worst and a release because yes, some of the interviewees gain support from the comments and/or feel heard through sharing their story. Some of them agree to talk because they need the $100 or so that Mark gives them for the interview for their next hit. For them, it’s not much different from prostitution - and that makes the channel exploitative. It’s complex.

[@JohnR.Luv2luvu]

I’m an alcoholic too. It’s been over a year since I’ve been sober. I know it’s hard but stay strong. We got this Brandon!

[@brandonwaln1311]

Thank you for your comment. I've decided to go to intreatment rehab .wish me luck!

[@JohnR.Luv2luvu]

@@brandonwaln1311 hi Brandon. How ya doing? Wanted to check in to see if all is going as planned. Hit me up soon man.

[@hangedups2608]

USING ‘WE’ HITS

[@wahiawamang6622]

I’m 54 and I stopped drinking 1 1/2 years ago. I hammered the booze for most of my life. Life seems a little awkward from time to time because it’s been a lifelong thing. You have to stay busy doing anything to keep you from it. It certainly can be done. If you see this Brandon, you can do it!

[@robscragga]

Hi, former high functioning alcoholic here 👋 I’m going on 2 years sober after 20 years of abuse Get sober, it’ll be the best thing you’ll ever do

[@amsjmh]

❤

[@rachelbrule538]

There’s so much compassion in you Brandon. I feel almost like you’re drinking to the numb the pain of not only yourself but those around you. God bless you, I pray you find peace and know the beauty of life substance free.

[@xavierisrael3320]

So much pain and resilience in this young man's life. The heart and soul of the country, the very best

[@MrMattw975]

Brandon, you are clearly an intelligent, genuine, caring soul. I wish you all the very best for the future.

[@JeffRebornNow]

BRANDON, you're a perfect candidate for A.A. I am telling you, dude, everything you're thinking and feeling is not unique. Go to a meeting, reach out to the guys there, tell a bit of your story, and you'll get A LOT of help. You know, the gambling and the drinking are all one-and-the-same problem, they have the same root cause. A.A. will help you face your fears and discover that cause, and the obsession to drink and gamble will leave you. It's worked for me, and millions of others through the years.

[@a.marvellehoneyman4560]

Yes! That’s exactly what I was going to tell him because AA saved my life…Brandon I’m praying for you!

[@dtschuor459]

Agree 💯. A person who genuinely commits to trying the program offered by AA can quit drinking, live an amazing life, and not face cravings again.

[@whiteyfisk9769]

Lets Go Brandon!!!

[@leej-wp9ft]

AA works if you work it. I hope Brandon joins our fellowship. He will be such a valued member.

[@benjaminthishandleistaken]

Another happy customer here…just over 10 years sober. AA was the best thing I ever did.

[@MakeL0v3NotWar]

What a sweetie. Brandon I pray you find your way back to a path of freedom and happiness ❤

[@jakecreighton9039]

I’m so proud of everyone in these comments that’s getting sober. I wish the best for you. And this man is so brave for telling his story I hope he knows how inspiring he is to everyone and how important his story is.

[@SaraKelly-e2j]

Alcoholism is underrated. It's one of the most destructive addictions. I hope he gets help getting into a rehab to help him get sober

[@patrickwade757]

you are so right. It's glorified in our culture but it's more destructive than a lot of other substances. strength and love to anyone dealing with this

[@226Plots]

I just watched Al Pacino's thoughts on alcoholism. It hit me, hopefully!

[@226Plots]

Yes, he said back then (and i think still) alcohol belongs to our culture, everywhere!

[@amymeier8619]

Man, I truly hope that he can get help and change his life. Brandon seems like a good guy. I would love to see his update. ❤

[@David-co4fg]

18 years sober for me on 11-19. Was drunk for 15 years. Alcohol is no joke. Wishing peace and sanity to all who are struggling with addiction. If I can do it, anyone can. I had a bad case ox it.

[@erinrametta]

Thank you for sharing. I didn’t touch it until 30 after a bad divorce. Then I couldn’t stop, I wanted to numb the pain. Now I am 42 and trying to kick it. It is really hard. I want to stop yet can’t seem to do it. Do you have any tips?

[@Updatenotavailable]

I really hate it when people say “if I can do it, anyone can” like you think you’ve had the worst case of addiction EVER! You don’t know what it’s like in someone else’s shoes, YOUR addiction is YOUR experience you shouldn’t compare it to other people. There are so many things that come into play with addiction and you can’t compare your experience to others, everyone is on their own journey.

[@David-co4fg]

@@Updatenotavailable get over yourself tough guy. Just trying to offer a word of encouragement. I think you know where you can jam your negativity

[@David-co4fg]

​@@erinrametta The only thing I can say is that you have to want it. It comes from deep inside. You'll know when you've had enough. The fact that you're even thinking about it is a small step. Keep thinking. You'll know one day. May not be what you want to hear.....but that's it. Good luck to you.

[@unknown-sx8sn]

No one said it was a joke! What planet are you on! 🙄 Sheesh

[@sherrycarlsen6297]

This is a very beautiful soul. I will be rooting for you, always! You are so precious! Love you, Brandon!! ❤

[@KY-jb4vd]

Yet another one that showcases the heartbreaking loss of potential that addiction brings. Brandon seems like such a sweet, hardworking, and caring person who should be enjoying his young life rather than suffering on skid row. I hope there are resources for him there and he can find his way to recovery. I would love to see him come back as a success story in a year or two!

[@bigchungus540]

Man this world can be a fucked up place for some people. I hope this man is doing well.

[@dominiquesegundo4392]

I feel that❤️

[@kristymurphy1363]

Not some people most people.

[@LP-jn4tw]

You mean "Man, some people can make their world a fucked up place." Personal responsibility is important.

[@AnaFernandez-jp5uh]

Brandon did a great job explaining the spiral of addiction. I hope Brandon gets into rehab to work through his trauma and addiction. I lost a really good friend to alcoholism. He stopped cold turkey and had a heart attack. He was a lot like Brandon, he had to grow up fast.

[@kathyfore2738]

This breaks my heart. He has spent his life caring for others and does not realize how much care and compassion he deserves. I hope that he can find a path to healing. He deserves such a better life.

[@paisbeyer7122]

I have faith in you, Brandon! Please, listen to the doctors. My brother is 27 and dying from cirrhosis. He deals with other health issues that are also due to the cirrhosis. He can’t stay sober long enough to get on the transplant list. Don’t let this be you. I wish you peace and love. If you fall tomorrow is a new day! ❤

[@honeybun6706]

What are his symptoms and what were the first ones that led to him knowing of this decease my husband is 34 and drinks heavily the doctors told him possibly developing this but we’re not sure and I want him to get help before it’s too late😢

[@paisbeyer7122]

@@honeybun6706 I can’t say for certain. By the time he had to go to the ER it was bad. He was 23. At that point he was bleeding internally. Had multiple blood transfusions and surgery to rubber band the bleeding areas of his esophagus. He was peeing blood. He had astices and had to have is abdomen drained. He was told then, if he stopped drinking his body could slowly recover. He’s never stopped. Now, 5 years later, he’s had his abdomen drained multiple times, lives daily with the complications that come along with Cirrhosis. He’s on borrowed time.

[@leashaw9301]

Just opened my eyes here in Kentucky! I’m in awe of Mark’s relentless work! Worry that he’s not getting enough rest!

[@taratravers159]

what a sweet soul. Hope you can push through. Dont fear death, this is what separates you from living, and brings suffering. I wish you all the best.

[@richardallen9242]

I just lost a brother to alcoholism I pray the power of God shifts all acholics mindset to positive sobriety

[@wesleyAlan9179]

Thank you for sharing your story, Brandon. Good luck to you, brother 💜🙏✌️🤞

[@benwaldenmusic]

I echo other the viewers’ sentiments who say that Brandon seems like a solid guy who never had much of a chance. I wish him the very best going forward.

[@christybugel3762]

Brandon has a true and compassionate heart. He started to drink when he simply could not take all that life was throwing him. This is a guy who could have done or been anything he wanted to be. Yet another life stunted by poor or inadequate parenting. You can tell Brandon, even in this state, has standards, and an enormous, empathetic personality. I hope help reaches him…I don’t think it would be wasted. I’ll be wishing the best for him!

[@GaiaMisery]

Back in April I got pancreatitis from drinking. Worse pain I ever had. I’m 42 and was drinking a bottle of vodka a day after work, I figured since I wasn’t day drinking anymore I’d be ok since I wasn’t having seizures anymore. Been sober since , not going back to booze

[@mickjames666]

sorry to hear. My ex girlfriend. Was a alcohol for 20 years. I took her to the hospital for pancreatitis about 15 times. She drank vodka daily.

[@phillippowers6905]

Pancreatitis and alcoholism survivor here. I drank a LOT. It hit me at age 40. It was THE ABSOLUTE worst pain ever and even scarier because I had no idea what it was at the time. It stopped my drinking instantly in its tracks. I am 43 now, stone cold sober for a little over 2 years now. Life got waaay better. I never thought i could re-learn how to have fun or derive any kind of enjoyment out of life without alcohol.....what a major misconception that was!!!!!! It is great to have my body, my freedom, my mind, my productivity back out of the grips of that horrible vice. I hope anyone that reads this gets some reassurance. I also wish you continued success!

[@brittanychisenhall2018]

Been through that as well.. was hospitalized with pancreatitis twice . Had no idea what was happening when I first got it and had to be rushed to the hospital where I was told I had a hole in my pancreas and was close to death,, all from drinking 3 pints of vodka daily for 2 years.. took me a few times to learn my lesson but I feel like I'm there . I got sober 11/11 of this year and already feel a huge difference. Prayers for everyone struggling

[@abigailrand]

alcohol is so horrifying :/ i’m trying to quit myself. i drink socially to help with anxiety but all in all, i feel worse after. i really feel for this guy, genuine soul who is so caring and empathetic towards others. please don’t give up!

[@rnt45t1]

834 days sober today

[@SethMacLeod95]

1000 days!!

[@DinoTandara-hp3xf]

How are you doing?

[@tinasmith7630]

Wot a kind, compassionate Man. Gosh he has been thro alot!!! Godbless him.

[@BillyBBecker]

Please keep us posted on Brandon ❤

[@sherrycarlsen6297]

So very tragic. I send him love and prayers. Life is so difficult.

[@sherrycarlsen6297]

Thats wonderful. This is about Brandon. Not you.

[@sherrycarlsen6297]

@marylevin9262 you are an ignorant idiot.

[@riefujimoto4279]

Brandon if u read this, u CAN do this get in a shelter, do what u have to to get sober, i know it's so hard, but u r still young your life is worth it and so are you!

[@simonjenkins1290]

This poor lad, what a run of terrible tragedies in his young life. However, he somehow remains very humble and on first appearance totally without bitterness and anger. It just goes to show that the roulette wheel of life can be decisive and without mercy. I wish him the best and hope he finds peace and sobriety.

[@MomsRoots]

He’s self aware. He knows he has a big problem. He wants to want to quit. He can get there when he wants to. I feel for the guy.

[@josefadams647]

Dude. We gotta help this dude. This is crazy - he has so much potential and he’s smart - the dude can change for the better w the support. He’s a got a great mind. I feel terrible for him.

[@michaelazans6666]

Wow!!! Thank you, Brandon for sharing your story!!!

[@lisakrieg3076]

Awww..my heart breaks for this man.. You can clearly see he is a truly good person. He has a caring soul. He has had allot of heartache in his life along with major responsibilities...especially at such a young age! Of course the alcoholism is devastating in itself. I so hope he can go on the straight path..get healthy.. and find true happiness. He deserves it. Bless him🙏....

[@conorh5697]

Is there any way to contact this guy? I have a job for him if he wants. A good job. I really connect with his story, and he seems like a very genuine man

[@ethantastic]

lets upvote this please

[@ethantastic]

@brandonwaln1311 did you see this?

[@mistystreasurechest5347]

What a sweet guy 🙏🏻

[@Chris-rv5mm]

I don't who I am anymore bc I do not want to judge you. I just want you to know you are trying your best and I hope you stay healthy mentally, physically and spiritually. That's it, God loves you, everyone loves you, Brandon.

[@diegoshepherd3464]

Brandon seems like a really nice, cool, upright, honest, caring man. He speaks in a very respectful way of all of his family members. I wish him all the best. He´s still young. Hopefully he can create a good life for himself.

[@Micronism.]

Brandon, you're a good person - doing ur best at a young age. Thanks 4 sharing ur story... wishing u all the best, i believe in you.

[@rainscratch]

In a matter of the first 8 minutes of Brandon talking about his past, trauma after trauma after trauma presents itself. I got overwhelmed just listening to this, can't imagine Brandon having to live through it.

[@Analoguebubblebath89]

19 months sober. I can be done. I never thought I could. But here I am

[@sm33sh90]

That's horrible he had to be the man of the house being a 16 yr old kid. It sounds like you've had the weight of the world on your shoulders. Hang in there man you've gone though a lot.

[@72ford360]

Love you cousin, so proud of you and your recovery! You've got a lot of good life ahead of you!

[@krishankochar3059]

It breaks my heart?such a kind soul. I really hope he got help.

[@tiffparker-kq3ft]

I also struggled with alcohol for a little over 10 years. I started drinking right after graduating high school. I loved drinking and going out with my close friends, but when I tried coke for the first time the party never stopped. I became heavily addicted and I was drunk all day everyday and was only sober during my pregnancy. I met my now serious boyfriend when I was deep in addiction and we began drinking everyday together until one day I woke up and I just felt that I was going to die. I don’t if it was God or my body saying you have had enough but I listened and me and my man decided to get sober together. I’m so grateful for him for walking with me through the storm and striving for a better life. Alcohol is so socially excepted and many people don’t realize they are in full blown addiction until it’s too late. I salute anyone waking up everyday and choosing sobriety. I’m proud to say I am almost 2 years sober from alcohol and hard drugs. I got my life back and I hope others can do the same. ❤

[@dylanb6005]

Hoping he can quit booze. I never hit it that hard but have been alcohol free for over 3 years and quitting was a game changer. Better mental health, better physical health, better sleep. So many benefits to not drinking.

[@Sunchild_26]

I feel for this man.❤My dad died around 40 from complications due to long term alcohol abuse he could have been a truly wonderful human if his addiction didn’t kill him. I feel his upbringing wasn’t ideal I wish I could’ve helped him growing up. Oh well I’ll always love him even if he wasn’t the best dad or human. I wish the absolute best for this man!!!!!!❤

[@nyahgirl4105]

My dad is a convicted SO too. It is so hard to deal with. Also an alcoholic. I struggle with substances very bad. I play my cards right, I’m wise but not smart. I wish this man the best of luck healing.

[@jaynesegman7847]

Save yourself

[@nyahgirl4105]

@@jaynesegman7847 I will.

[@jhgandy2653]

Mark, I just want you to know how much you have inspired me to pursue photography and getting a degree in the field. Everyone always told me I was silly to even think I could pursue it so I let that shit talk me out of going for it. I'm 41 now and I'm currently enrolled at one of the top photography schools in America. Photography gives me an outlet to use to quiet my demons for just a little while everyday. Im a combat veteran and suffer from PTSD and most days it's hard to even get out of my house but I do it. I don't really like being around people but I do enjoy photographing people in their everyday lives. I guess you'd call it street photography. I said all of that to say I respect you deeply and I appreciate how kind you are to everyone. I said that before on one of your videos and you replied back to me " I show respect to everyone everyday always". I can't tell you how much that meant to me I couldn't believe that it was actually you and you took the time out of your day to say that to me. I'd love to tell you my story sometime and let u read it and see if you might be able to get a story out of it.

[@kweenz109]

Love this for you!

[@jhgandy2653]

@@kweenz109 thank you!! I'm just finishing up my fourth semester :) got 6 more to go before I graduate.

[@luqueedapace4441]

May God bless you from Wichita Kansas.

[@tc7584]

Hey man I stumbled upon your video. I got sober 1 year and 8 months ago and it just finally clicked for me. You've had a tough childhood and deserve happiness.

[@brandonwaln1311]

Thank you for your comment. I've decided to go to intreatment rehab .wish me luck!

[@myyoutubechannel3161]

Damn bro, you have been through so much in your life, condolences to your family .. God bless you. You are not in Kansas anymore. you're in skidrow shit gets real out here, stay safe out there Brandon.

[@MeatSwingKing]

Brandon, you got this bro. Tough times do make tough people and you’re really genuine strong tough dude who can make it through this and whatever comes next.

[@plaztikexplosives5953]

I've dried out twice now. I'm 2.5 years now alcohol free and more terrified of going back to it more than anything else. I'm 47 now. For nearly 30 years I used alcohol to mask trauma and ptsd from a maniac, tyrant of an abusive father who widdled my self esteem and self worth to absolutely nothing the 1st 15 years of my life. It was 15 years of terror, the family house was a war zone and he was the only one at war with us. It wasn't until I dried out the 1st time 13 years ago I was finally able face that demon who continued to poison my mind and soul. But yeah, alcohol is a hell of a drug.

[@hagif.4590]

Very touching story of a good hearted person. Brandon - I wish your full path to recovery and knowing how loved you are by source

[@katemick3780]

I like how he focused more about Brandon's life and state of mind versus any unnecessary talk about his substance abuse.

[@alliphx]

Brandon, you have the "gift of desperation" which is a blessing. Go find a meeting and watch the miracle happen.

[@Th4DeuSs]

Hope the future is better for Brandon.

[@derkaiser420]

I am an alcoholic who is ten months sober. I felt bad because I have good parents, no big issues, and had a good childhood; I have no reason to be an addict but I am. But I learned that trauma and past issues are not always really obvious. But, I hope this guy finds sobriety. Life is a lot easier that way he just has to quit when he is ready. One day at a time.

[@michellegrenisen6707]

He was a good storyteller, enjoyed listening to him.

[@johncena04101]

He told the story and didn't leave out the bad parts of his behavior. That's commendable. I hope he stays sober.

[@thegeezerrr2042]

What a nice guy, not too far gone yet.. Either warm and dead in LA or cold and alive in Kansas.. Go back home to your family, get back to the church and get your flight job back, everyone makes mistakes. Hopefully you can get a second chance. Even though the criminal record is hard.. Best of luck, uou have age on your side son.... James... England